Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell like a cozy home. Imagine tender, juicy chicken legs roasting away while fluffy rice absorbs all those savory juices, filling your space with warm, mouth-watering aromas. One Pot Smoked Sausage and Rice The irresistible blend of spices, herbs, and a bit of love creates a dish that’s perfect for any occasion—be it a family dinner or just a comforting solo feast. Grandma’s Goulash comfort dish.
When I think about Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, I remember the countless Sunday dinners spent around the table with my family. Each bite brings back memories of laughter, stories shared, and the occasional food fight (we were kids; what can I say?). Peach Cobbler Parfait dessert It’s a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart. Get ready because this recipe promises to tickle your taste buds and make you feel right at home!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish combines ease of preparation with rich flavors that everyone will love
- It looks stunning on any dinner table, making it perfect for gatherings
- The versatility allows you to customize the spices based on your palate or pantry
- Plus, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
I remember one time when my friends came over for game night, and I proudly served this dish. They couldn’t get enough of those juicy chicken legs!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Chicken Legs: Choose meaty chicken legs for maximum flavor; bone-in skin-on works best for crispiness.
- Long-Grain Rice: This type of rice cooks up fluffy and absorbs the chicken’s juices beautifully.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for flavor; it gives the dish an aromatic kick without the fuss of chopping garlic. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe.
- Onion Powder: Adds sweetness and depth; use fresh onions if you prefer a more robust flavor.
- Dried Oregano: This herb adds a Mediterranean flair to your chicken; it pairs well with all the other ingredients.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enriching the rice with flavor.
- Olive Oil: Helps achieve that golden-brown crust on your chicken legs; don’t skimp here!
- Pepper & Salt: Essential seasonings to taste; season generously for maximum flavor impact.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat and Prepare Your Space: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a large baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Season Those Chicken Legs!: In a bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture generously over the chicken legs until they are well coated in those savory spices.
Sauté Your Aromatics (Optional): If you’re feeling fancy, sauté some chopped onions in olive oil in a pan until translucent. This step adds an extra layer of flavor but isn’t mandatory.
Add Rice to Baking Dish: Pour the long-grain rice evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Spread it out like you’re creating a blank canvas for your masterpiece!
Combine Broth and Seasonings: In another bowl, combine chicken broth with additional seasoning if desired. Pour this flavorful liquid over the rice so it can soak up all those tasty flavors during cooking.
Arrange Chicken Over Rice: Nestle the seasoned chicken legs on top of the rice mixture in your baking dish. Make sure they’re evenly spaced so every piece gets crispy!
Bake Until Perfectly Done!: Pop your creation into the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Quick 15 Minute Lo Mein You want that skin crispy and golden!
Serve up hot and enjoy every delicious bite! Your friends will be begging for this recipe after tasting how incredible it is!
This Baked Chicken Legs and Rice recipe is not just about filling stomachs; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table that last forever. Happy cooking! For more inspiration, check out this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole recipe.
You Must Know
- Baked chicken legs and rice create a delightful one-pan meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare
- This dish fills your home with mouthwatering aromas, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings
- Enjoy the crispy chicken paired with flavorful rice!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by seasoning your chicken legs, then sear them in a hot pan for extra flavor. While they cook, prepare the rice with broth and spices to enhance its taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the rice for quinoa or couscous, or add veggies like bell peppers or peas for a colorful twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve crispy skin on baked chicken legs, pat them dry before seasoning
- Use broth instead of water for rice to enhance flavor
- Let the dish rest after cooking to allow flavors to meld beautifully
Cooking baked chicken legs and rice takes me back to family gatherings where everyone fought over the last piece—good times!
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken legs?
Yes, boneless chicken legs will work but adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I serve with baked chicken legs and rice?
Serve with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is a heartwarming dish that fills your home with delightful aromas. Juicy chicken legs roast to perfection while fluffy rice absorbs savory flavors, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings. This one-pan meal offers simplicity without sacrificing taste, ensuring everyone at the table will want seconds. Get ready to create lasting memories around your dining table with this comforting recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken legs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub over chicken legs.
- Evenly spread the rice in the baking dish.
- Combine chicken broth with additional seasoning if desired; pour over the rice.
- Place seasoned chicken legs on top of the rice mixture.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken leg with ½ cup rice (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, sear the chicken legs before baking. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.
