I can’t tell you how many times Baked Chicken Legs and Rice has come to my rescue during busy weeknights! This dish is the ultimate combination of comfort food and simplicity. Just imagine savory, juicy chicken legs baked to perfection, nestled next to fluffy rice, soaking up all those delicious flavors. And the best part? It’s all done in one pan, meaning less mess and more time to unwind after a long day!
This meal brings back memories of cozy family dinners when I was growing up. My mom would whip this up on chilly evenings, filling the house with the warm, inviting aroma of seasoned chicken and spices. It’s no wonder that it has become a staple in my kitchen as an adult. I love how versatile it is—you can switch up the seasonings or add veggies whenever the mood strikes.
What’s in Baked Chicken Legs and Rice?
Chicken Legs: The star of the show! Chicken legs are juicy, flavorful, and tend to be more forgiving during baking than other cuts. I always use skin-on legs for that extra crispiness.
Rice: I prefer long-grain white rice for this dish because it cooks up perfectly fluffy and absorbs the flavors wonderfully. You can also use brown rice if you’re feeling adventurous; just be sure to adjust the cooking time.
Broth or Water: I use chicken broth for an extra depth of flavor, but water works just fine. If you want to take it up a notch, consider adding some herbs to the broth.
Seasonings: A mixture of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper is what I love. It gives the dish a robust flavor without needing a ton of ingredients. Feel free to sprinkle in some dried herbs like thyme or oregano if you like!
Olive Oil: A light drizzle helps to crisp up the chicken skin and enhances the flavor. You could also use melted butter if you want that rich, buttery taste.
Is Baked Chicken Legs and Rice Good for You?
Yes, it absolutely can be! This dish is balanced with protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the rice.
Chicken Legs: These provide a great source of protein and essential vitamins, particularly B vitamins that play a role in metabolism.
Rice: It’s a good energy source and can also be a part of a balanced diet, especially if you use whole grain varieties. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your carbs.
That said, depending on how much oil or sodium you use, it can lean toward the heavier side, so consider using lower-sodium broth and lighter drizzling oil if you’re aiming for a health-conscious meal.
Ingredients
– 4 chicken legs (thighs and drumsticks)
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Optional herbs (thyme or oregano)
*Serves 4*
How to Make Baked Chicken Legs and Rice?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe baking dish, mix your rice with the chicken broth or water; set aside.
3. Pat your chicken legs dry with a paper towel and place them on top of the rice.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. If you’re adding herbs, now’s the time!
5. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and crispy.
7. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Delicious Variations to Try
– **Add Veggies:** Feel free to throw in some veggies like carrots, peas, or bell peppers in the baking dish for a one-pan wonder.
– **Spice It Up:** If you love heat, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
– **Herb-Infused Rice:** Throw in a couple of bay leaves or fresh herbs like rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice has become one of my go-to recipes for gathering friends or just a cozy family meal. I hope you give it a try! Let me know how it turns out or what variations you come up with—I know that you’ll love it just as much as I do! Happy cooking!
