Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is not only easy to prepare, but it also makes a complete meal in one dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The chicken turns out juicy and flavorful, while the rice is cooked perfectly in chicken broth, making it a satisfying and delicious meal for the whole family.

How to Make Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Rub the spice mixture generously over the chicken legs.
3. Place the rice in the prepared baking dish and pour the chicken broth over it, stirring to combine.
4. Nestle the seasoned chicken legs on top of the rice mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). Remove foil in the last five minutes for a crispy finish.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Serve the baked chicken legs on a bed of fluffy rice. You can add a side salad or steamed vegetables for extra color and nutrition. This dish is best enjoyed warm, and the flavors will be even better when it sits for a few minutes after baking.

How to Store Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. The meal can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. To reheat, place it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken legs in the spice mixture for a few hours or overnight.
• You can substitute brown rice for long-grain rice, though cooking times may vary. Brown rice generally takes longer to cook.
• Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the rice for added nutrients and flavor.

Variation

You can create different flavor profiles by changing the spices. Try adding paprika or Italian seasoning for a different taste. Additionally, you could use boneless chicken thighs for a quicker cooking time.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe without skin-on chicken?
A: Yes, you can use skinless chicken legs or thighs, but the chicken may not be as moist as with skin-on pieces.

Q: What can I serve on the side?
A: Consider serving a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of bread to complement the dish.

Q: Can I use other types of rice?
A: While long-grain rice works best for this recipe, you can experiment with other types like jasmine or basmati, adjusting the liquid accordingly.

Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

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A hearty and easy one-dish meal combining juicy baked chicken legs and perfectly cooked rice in chicken broth.

• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Rub the spice mixture generously over the chicken legs.
3. Place the rice in the prepared baking dish and pour the chicken broth over it, stirring to combine.
4. Nestle the seasoned chicken legs on top of the rice mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). Remove foil in the last five minutes for a crispy finish.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken legs before cooking. Substitute brown rice, adjusting cooking times, or add vegetables for added nutrition.

• Author: nevaeh-hall
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 110mg