Can I "bake" rice with good results?

Check this out....the best source of information in my opinion. https://www.thinkrice.com/at-home/storage-preparation-and-cooking-tips/

I usually resort to the microwave to make my rice 1:3 rice: water ratio for regular rice 1: 2 for Basmati 20 minutes

I agree with lloreen on the "sautée tip".I would never cook rice without an olive oil and garlic base.Sautée the rice for a minute or so but don't let it seat on the heat or it will get hardened.I never actually cooked the rice on the oven,but there's a quick recipe to bake cooked rice:sautée ground beef (or finely chopped ham,or sausage,or even hot dogs...why not?),beaten eggs,little milk,chopped vegetables at your choice(I use onion, peas and carrot),some olives,little bit of tomato sauce,oregano and mozzarela cheese;mix everything with the rice(or pasta al dente-then you'll need more sauce).Cover with grated parmigiano and leave it in medium heat until the eggs get hardened and the cheese melted.

I have used this recipe with tasty results. The quinoa could be omitted -- it's the technique that's critical.
http://www.food52.com/recipes/10587_perfect_long_grain_brown_rice_with_black_or_red_quinoa

Oh- and the cooking time is approximate - check after 20 but it might take longer

I like to make rice in the oven, but usually I begin it on the stove. soak the rice well, of course. Sautée your spices or seeds in a little oil, then add the rice and stir for a few seconds. add the hot water, then cover the pot with tinfoil or parchment and the lid, to make it tight. Put it in the oven at 350 for about 20 mins.
do you have any dried shiitake mushrooms? This would be really good with a mushroom broth if you soak them in boiling water, then add both the mushrooms and broth...