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Close-up of golden-brown crispy chicken thighs nestled on top of tender yellow rice with diced carrots and translucent onions.

The Ultimate Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole

This comforting Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole features crispy bone-in chicken thighs nestled over fluffy, yellow-seasoned rice loaded with tender carrots and onions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 610

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 large bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs Patted completely dry.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil 15ml. For searing the chicken.
  • 1 cup diced onions 150g. Finely diced.
  • 1 cup diced carrots 120g. Finely diced.
  • 1.5 cups long-grain white rice 300g. Rinsed well.
  • 3 cups chicken broth 710ml.
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder 3g.
  • 1 tsp paprika 3g.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder 3g.
  • 1 tsp kosher salt 5g.
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper 1g.
  • 2 tbsp fresh green parsley 10g. Finely chopped, for garnish.

Equipment

  • 1 Heavy-Bottomed Skillet Essential for properly searing the chicken thighs to develop the initial crispy crust.
  • 1 Rectangular White Ceramic Baking Dish A 9x13-inch (23x33cm) ceramic dish provides even heat distribution.

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat the 4 large bone-in chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels. Heavily coat the skin and underside of the chicken with the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Press the spices gently into the skin.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp (15ml) of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, place chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear undisturbed for 6-8 minutes until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Flip and sear for 2 more minutes, then transfer to a plate.
  3. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add 1 cup (150g) diced onions and 1 cup (120g) diced carrots. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until onions are translucent and carrots soften.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a rectangular white ceramic baking dish. Pour in 1.5 cups (300g) long-grain white rice, followed by the sautéed onions and carrots. Sprinkle 1 tsp (3g) turmeric powder over the mixture.
  5. Pour 3 cups (710ml) chicken broth into the baking dish, stirring gently. Carefully arrange the 4 seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up.
  6. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed all the broth, and the chicken juices run clear and glisten under the light.
  7. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes. Sprinkle with 2 tbsp (10g) chopped fresh green parsley before serving.

Notes

Do Not Cover the Dish: Baking uncovered ensures the chicken skin remains heavily crisped.
Rinse Your Rice: Rinsing removes excess starch, leading to a much fluffier yellow rice foundation.