There is something truly comforting and satisfying about a hearty meal that comes together effortlessly, and this One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is exactly that kind of dish. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces nestled in fluffy, perfectly cooked rice, all infused with the warm flavors of garlic, onion, and a hint of paprika and thyme. This recipe is a perfect weeknight winner because it requires minimal cleanup but delivers big on flavor and nourishment. Whether you’re cooking for your family or craving a cozy solo dinner, this dish is designed to make you smile with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe lies in its simplicity, yet every ingredient plays a key role in building layers of deliciousness. These fresh and pantry staples work together to create a meal that’s both comforting and colorful.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken to a golden-brown perfection and adding a subtle richness.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Your protein base, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and tenderness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweet, savory depth as it softens and caramelizes alongside the chicken.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a punch of aromatic flavor that makes the dish irresistibly savory.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: The fluffy, tender grain that perfectly absorbs all those wonderful juices and spices.
- 2 ¼ cups chicken broth: Adds essential moisture and a rich, savory foundation to cook the rice and meld flavors.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables): Colorful veggies that add texture, sweetness, and a fresh pop of vibrancy.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor in the dish without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and balances the savory profile perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Brings mild smokiness and a beautiful warmth to the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle herbaceous note that brightens the overall flavor.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh, vibrant finishing touch that adds a lovely herbal aroma.
How to Make One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Brown the chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until it’s shimmering. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes, until nicely browned on all sides. This step not only locks in the juices but also creates a wonderful golden crust that builds flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Sauté onion and garlic
Once the chicken has a lovely color, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic releases its aromatic goodness. This combination creates a deliciously fragrant base for your dish that will have your kitchen smelling amazing.
Step 3: Toast the rice
Add the long-grain white rice directly into the pot and stir for 1 minute, allowing the rice to toast slightly. This helps to enhance the nuttiness of the rice and keeps its texture fluffy after cooking. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference!
Step 4: Add broth, vegetables, and seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth, then add frozen peas and carrots along with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, making sure the rice is evenly distributed in the liquid. This step integrates all the flavors and prepares the pot for the final simmer.
Step 5: Simmer until tender
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and gently simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. During this time, the chicken finishes cooking, and the flavors meld beautifully. Avoid lifting the lid too often to ensure perfect rice texture.
Step 6: Rest and fluff
Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to steam gently and results in fluffier grains. Fluff the dish with a fork, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if you like, and your One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is ready to dazzle.
How to Serve One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh parsley is a classic and bright garnish, you can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to give the dish a wonderful uplifting zing. Crushed red pepper flakes or a little shredded cheese work great too if you want to mix things up. These simple toppings elevate both flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
This warm, hearty meal pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. A side of crusty bread or warm pita completes the meal, allowing you to scoop up those delicious juices. These simple compliments provide a nice contrast to the tender chicken and soft rice.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe in colorful bowls topped with avocado slices or toasted nuts for added texture and richness. For a family gathering, present it in the same pot it was cooked in to highlight its rustic charm. Garnishing with edible flowers transforms it into a beautiful centerpiece that’s as delightful to see as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve as they meld overnight, making this dish perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during the week. Just make sure to cool the food to room temperature before refrigerating.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this meal in advance, freezing works well. Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the texture of the chicken and rice.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly. This careful reheating keeps the chicken juicy and prevents the rice from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time and a bit more broth. You might need to add additional liquid and allow about 40 to 45 minutes to simmer until tender.
Is it okay to use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, either works great. Chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender, while breasts are leaner. If using breasts, watch the cooking time closely to avoid drying out the meat, especially when browning.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Keep the same seasonings for a tasty, comforting vegetarian version.
What should I do if my rice isn’t fully cooked after 20 minutes?
If the rice still feels too firm after the simmer time, add a few more tablespoons of broth or water, cover, and cook a little longer on low heat. Sometimes different stovetops or rice brands require slight adjustments.
Can I add other spices or herbs to change the flavor?
Yes! This recipe is very flexible. Try adding cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika for a twist, or fresh herbs like basil or cilantro at the end for freshness. These adjustments let you customize the dish to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe truly shines when you want something simple, nutritious, and bursting with flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that welcomes you home with open arms and leftovers that taste even better the next day. I encourage you to give it a try and make it your own—you might just find a new favorite weeknight staple that brings joy to your table again and again.
Print
One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a simple, comforting, and flavorful dish perfect for a quick family dinner. Tender chicken, aromatic spices, and nutritious vegetables come together in a single skillet, making cleanup easy and the cooking process straightforward. With juicy chicken thighs or breasts cooked alongside fluffy rice and vibrant peas and carrots, this dish delivers both heartiness and balance in every bite.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
Carbohydrates
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 ¼ cups chicken broth
Spices and Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned on all sides.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Toast the Rice: Stir in the long-grain white rice and cook for about 1 minute, allowing the rice to toast slightly. This step adds a subtle nutty flavor and improves the texture.
- Add Broth and Vegetables: Pour in the chicken broth and add the frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables). Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a lid and let it simmer gently for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
- Rest and Fluff: Remove the pot from the heat but keep it covered. Let it sit for 5 minutes to finish steaming. Then, uncover and fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful one pot chicken and rice meal.
Notes
- For added flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished dish right before serving.
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken; just stir it in with the vegetables and reduce the simmer time slightly since the chicken is already cooked.
- Brown rice can be used as a substitute for white rice, but it requires a longer cooking time and more broth to cook properly.
