Fluffy Oven-Cooked Rice - Easy

Tired of babysitting a pot of rice, only for it to turn out mushy or, even worse, burnt and stuck to the bottom? We've all been there! But what if we told you there's a ridiculously easy way to get perfectly cooked, fluffy oven-cooked rice every single time, with almost zero fuss? That's right, we're talking about baked rice – a hands-off method that frees up your stovetop and your attention. This guide will show you how to make delicious rice cooked in the oven that's great for busy weeknights, big family dinners, or anyone who just wants a foolproof way to make this staple grain. Get ready to ditch the drama and embrace perfectly fluffy rice!

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
• 1 ¾ cups hot water or chicken/vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or neutral oil (like olive or canola)
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste, less if using salted broth)
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon onion powder, or 1 small bay leaf

Directions

1. Prep the Rice & Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you prefer to rinse your rice (which can help remove excess starch for fluffier grains), do so now under cold running water until it runs clear, then drain it really well. Lightly grease or spray an 8x8 or 9x9-inch baking dish. Spread the drained rice evenly across the bottom of the dish, aiming for a layer about 1 to 1.5 inches deep.
2. Add Hot Liquid & Seasoning: Heat your water or broth until it’s hot but not necessarily boiling (you can use a kettle, microwave, or small saucepan). Stir in the salt and butter or oil until dissolved. If using optional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or a bay leaf, add them to the liquid now. Carefully pour the hot liquid over the rice in the baking dish. Gently stir once to ensure the rice is submerged and evenly distributed. The liquid level should just barely cover the rice.
3. Seal & Bake: Cover the baking dish very tightly with aluminum foil or a snug-fitting lid. It’s crucial to prevent steam from escaping, so press the foil down firmly around the edges. Place the covered dish on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, depending on your oven. Resist the urge to open the oven door during baking, as this releases steam and can affect the cooking process.
4. Rest, Fluff & Serve: Once the baking time is up, the edges of the rice should be bubbling, and most of the liquid should be absorbed. Carefully remove the dish from the oven, but do not remove the foil or lid yet! Let the rice rest, still covered, for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming and ensures it’s perfectly tender. After resting, remove the cover and gently fluff the rice with a fork, lifting from the bottom to the top to separate the grains. Avoid smashing the rice. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you notice your rice is consistently too wet or too dry, make a mental note to adjust the water slightly next time. Serve immediately and enjoy your perfectly fluffy, hands-off oven-baked rice!