One Pot Chicken and Rice is a beloved dish that combines the comforting flavors of well-seasoned chicken with fluffy rice in a single, easy-to-clean pot. Whether you’re a busy parent searching for a weeknight meal or a novice cook eager to impress with minimal kitchen fuss, this recipe has something for everyone.
Why We Love This One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
There’s something inherently comforting about one-pot meals. They offer a unique way to prepare food that allows every ingredient to shine while enhancing each other’s flavor. In the case of One Pot Chicken and Rice, the combination of spices beautifully coats the chicken, while the rice absorbs the broth, creating a flavorful and hearty dish.
Not only does this recipe provide convenience, but it’s also a delight for the senses. The deep scents of paprika, oregano, and garlic wrap around the tender chicken thighs, creating a dish that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s fully customizable! You can swap ingredients or add extras based on what you have on hand. This versatility means you can enjoy this recipe time and time again without it feeling repetitive. The ease of clean-up is just an added bonus that makes it even more appealing.
Ingredients for One Pot Chicken and Rice
To prepare this flavorful One Pot Chicken and Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1.25 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs (4-5 thighs)
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil, divided
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1.75 cups vegetable broth
- 1 Tbsp chopped parsley (optional garnish)
These straightforward ingredients work together to create a deliciously satisfying dish that you’ll want to make time and again.
How to Make One Pot Chicken and Rice
Let’s walk through the steps to create this easy and delicious One Pot Chicken and Rice.
Prepare the Seasoning: Start by combining paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This aromatic blend will serve as the foundation of the dish, imparting rich flavors to the chicken.
Season the Chicken: Take your chicken thighs and coat both sides with the seasoning mix. This will enhance the flavor profile as they cook and ensure that the chicken is anything but bland.
Brown the Chicken: In a deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, swirl it around to ensure the skillet is well-coated. Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet and let them cook for several minutes on each side until they achieve a deep, golden-brown crust. After browning, set the chicken on a clean plate and set it aside.
Sauté the Onion: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add another tablespoon of cooking oil to the skillet. Toss in the diced onion and sauté it for around five minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step builds a foundation of flavor for the rice.
Toast the Rice: Add the uncooked rice into the skillet with the onions and continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes. Toasting the rice before adding liquid infuses it with flavor and enhances its texture during cooking.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet, stirring briefly to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom. These bits are packed with flavor and should not be wasted!
Return the Chicken: Bring the chicken back into the skillet, placing it right on top of the rice. This allows the chicken to cook evenly while the rice absorbs all the delightful flavors from the chicken and broth.
Simmer: Place a lid on the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high, allowing the broth to come to a full boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as it’s crucial for moisture retention.
Let It Rest: After 20 minutes, turn off the heat but leave the lid on for another five minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking in the residual steam, ensuring that it comes out tender and fluffy.
Fluff and Garnish: After the resting period, remove the lid and fluff the rice around the chicken gently with a fork. If you want, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness before serving.
This method ensures that your One Pot Chicken and Rice will turn out deliciously flavorful, with perfectly cooked chicken and rice that melds together beautifully.
How to Serve One Pot Chicken and Rice
When it comes to serving your One Pot Chicken and Rice, the presentation can elevate a home-cooked meal into something special. To serve, spoon portions of the fluffy rice onto plates, making sure to include a piece of chicken for each serving. Optional garnishing with freshly chopped parsley not only adds a vibrant touch but also provides a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
You can enjoy this One Pot Chicken and Rice dish as is or accompany it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A light vinaigrette or a splash of lemon juice can also enhance the freshness of your meal. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider offering hot sauce on the side to allow guests to add a kick to their plates.
Expert Tips: One Pot Chicken and Rice
Choose the Right Skillet: A deep, heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for even cooking. If you don’t have a deep skillet, a Dutch oven can work well too.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Using fresh herbs or high-quality spices can make a significant difference in flavor. Don’t skimp on the seasoning!
Rice Variety: Although long-grain white rice works best for this recipe, you can also experiment with jasmine or basmati rice for a different flavor profile.
Avoid Overcrowding: When browning the chicken, make sure they have enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than browning, so brown in batches if necessary.
Check for Doneness: Ensure that the chicken is cooked through before serving; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is a handy tool for this.
Leftovers: If you happen to have leftovers, this dish reheats beautifully. Simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
How to Store One Pot Chicken and Rice
If you’ve prepared a big batch of One Pot Chicken and Rice and have leftovers, or if you want to make it ahead of time, proper storage is crucial. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat by gently warming on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations of One Pot Chicken and Rice
One of the best aspects of One Pot Chicken and Rice is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few variations to consider:
Vegetable Boost: Toss in some frozen peas or chopped carrots during the last five minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
Spicy Twist: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños along with the seasoning to bring some heat to the dish.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Adding them during cooking or just before serving can add a fresh aroma and flavor.
Coconut Rice: Swap out part of the vegetable broth for coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor twist.
These variations can keep your meals exciting and tailored to your preferences, making one-pot cooking an expansive experience rather than a repetitive chore.
FAQ
What makes One Pot Chicken and Rice a good choice for dinner?
One Pot Chicken and Rice is a fantastic choice for dinner because it combines convenience, flavor, and minimal cleanup. You can prepare an entire meal in one pot, which means less time scrubbing dishes afterward.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in One Pot Chicken and Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time and additional liquid. You may need to adjust the vegetable broth and increase the cooking time accordingly.
Are there any other protein options for One Pot Rice dishes?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute chicken with other proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even turkey. Just ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked safely and evenly.
One Pot Chicken and Rice
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1.25 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (4-5 thighs)
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil divided
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1.75 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley optional garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Season the chicken thighs with the spice mixture, coating both sides.
- In a deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 7-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and stir well to combine.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and cover. Simmer for 20 minutes without lifting the lid.
- After 20 minutes, remove from heat and let sit with the lid on for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork and garnish with parsley before serving.