When you think of comfort food, what dances in your mind’s eye? For me, it’s the aroma of baked chicken legs and rice wafting through the house, wrapping everyone in a warm embrace. The succulent chicken, perfectly seasoned and baked until golden brown, mingles with fluffy rice that soaks up all the flavorful juices. perfect side with baked chicken It’s like a cozy hug from grandma on a chilly day.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a laid-back weekend gathering. Imagine sitting around the table with friends and family, laughter filling the air as you dig into this delightful meal. Trust me; every bite is a ticket to flavor town that will have everyone coming back for seconds, or thirds if they’re feeling bold!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked chicken legs and rice recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
- The juicy chicken combined with savory rice creates an irresistible flavor profile
- Its golden-brown crust makes it visually appealing, sure to impress your guests
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite spices or vegetables!
I still remember the first time I served this baked chicken legs and rice at a family gathering. Everyone was raving about how delicious it was, and my cousin even tried to steal my recipe!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Chicken Legs: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken legs for maximum flavor and moisture during baking.
- Long-Grain Rice: This type absorbs flavors beautifully and cooks evenly, giving you that perfect texture.
- Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water elevates the taste of the rice significantly.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps achieve that golden-brown crispiness on your chicken skin.
- Garlic Powder: This adds depth to your dish without overwhelming it—my secret weapon! garlic parmesan Brussels sprouts.
- Paprika: For color and a hint of smokiness that will make your taste buds sing.
- Salt & Pepper: The duo that ensures everything is seasoned just right—don’t skip out on these!
- Fresh Herbs (like parsley): Adds a pop of color and freshness once plated.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s like getting a warm-up before running a marathon—essential!
Prepare the Chicken Legs: Pat dry the chicken legs with paper towels; this helps achieve that crispy skin everyone loves. crispy chicken tacos for dinner Then place them in a large bowl.
Season Generously: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken legs and sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until well-coated; this step brings all those flavors together.
Add Rice & Broth: In your baking dish, spread uncooked long-grain rice evenly across the bottom. Pour in chicken broth over the rice—this will be its spa day!
Arrange Chicken on Top: Nestle the seasoned chicken legs on top of the rice like they’re lounging on their own fluffy cloud.
Bake Until Perfectly Cooked: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.
Once you pull this masterpiece out of the oven, let it rest for five minutes while you try not to drool all over yourself. Fluff up the rice with a fork before serving—it’s like giving it a little wake-up call after its steamy nap.
And there you have it! Baked chicken legs and rice that are not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that’ll have everyone doing their happy dance around the dinner table. Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- Baked Chicken Legs & Rice for is a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights
- The aroma fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort, making it feel like home
- Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your family’s preferences
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the chicken legs, then bake them at 400°F while the rice cooks on the stovetop. This ensures everything is ready at the same time!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out white rice for brown or add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition and color. Everyone loves a colorful plate!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For juicy chicken, marinate overnight with your favorite spices
- Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F
- When cooking rice, let it rest for five minutes after cooking for fluffiness
I remember the first time I made Baked Chicken Legs & Rice for my family; they couldn’t stop raving about it! It’s now our go-to meal for gatherings. creamy chicken pasta alternatives.
FAQ
Can I use other parts of chicken instead of legs?
Yes, thighs or breasts work well but might require different cooking times.
What can I serve with Baked Chicken Legs & Rice for?
For more inspiration, check out this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe.
A side salad or steamed vegetables complement this dish beautifully.
How do I know when the chicken legs are done?
Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is the ultimate comfort food that combines juicy, seasoned chicken with fluffy rice soaked in savory broth. This easy-to-make dish captures the essence of home-cooked meals, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With a golden-brown crust and mouthwatering flavors, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every bite as you create lasting memories around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat dry the chicken legs and place them in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Spread uncooked rice evenly in a baking dish and pour chicken broth over it.
- Arrange seasoned chicken legs on top of the rice.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.
- Let rest for five minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken leg (175g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
