Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is a comforting one-pan meal combining tender, juicy chicken drumsticks with perfectly cooked savory rice. Seasoned with smoked paprika, thyme, and a touch of brown sugar, this easy-to-make dish offers balanced, rich flavors perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4-6
- Category: Main Course, Dinner, One-Pan Meal
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
Freshly ground black pepper, 15-20 cranks
6–8 chicken drumsticks
2 tablespoons butter
½ medium yellow onion, chopped
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup uncooked white rice
1⅓ cups low-sodium chicken broth
⅔ cup water
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Mix olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper in a bowl. Rub over chicken drumsticks evenly.
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Heat oven-safe skillet over medium heat; melt butter. Sauté onion and garlic 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
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Stir in rice, coating with butter and aromatics; cook 1-2 minutes.
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Pour in chicken broth, water, and remaining ½ teaspoon salt; stir gently.
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Nestle chicken drumsticks into rice mixture.
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Bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F and rice is tender.
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Rest a few minutes; squeeze lemon wedges over dish and garnish with herbs before serving.
Notes
Add cayenne or chili powder for heat.
Mix in bell peppers, peas, or carrots before baking for veggies.
Swap white rice for brown rice (longer cooking time) or jasmine rice.
Use fresh rosemary or basil instead of thyme and oregano for variety.
Substitute with chicken thighs or bone-in breasts; adjust cooking times.
Use olive oil instead of butter for dairy-free version.
Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/baked-chicken-legs-and-rice/
