ONE-POT CHICKEN AND RICE – COMFORTING AND EASY FAMILY MEAL
Meta Description: Savor this flavorful one-pot chicken and rice! With tender chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and minimal cleanup, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner.
Introduction:
One-pot chicken and rice is a comforting, easy-to-make dinner that brings together juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a burst of flavors—all in a single pot! This hearty dish is perfect for busy evenings, with simple ingredients that come together in under an hour. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s filling, delicious, and perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Season and Sear Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 2-3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Rice and Seasoning: Stir in the rice, paprika, thyme, and oregano, coating the rice in the flavors.
- Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Place the chicken thighs on top of the rice, skin-side up.
- Simmer and Cook: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Estimated Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 30g
Note: Nutrition facts may vary based on specific ingredients.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
FAQs About One-Pot Chicken and Rice
1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work well in this recipe. They may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Add chopped carrots, bell peppers, or peas when cooking the rice for a more colorful and nutritious meal.
3. What type of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice is ideal for this dish as it cooks evenly and doesn’t turn mushy. Avoid using instant rice, as it cooks too quickly for this recipe.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or serve with hot sauce on the side for extra heat.
5. What sides go well with one-pot chicken and rice?
This dish is satisfying on its own, but a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or steamed greens make excellent sides for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect One-Pot Chicken and Rice
- Pat Chicken Dry: For a better sear, pat the chicken thighs dry before adding them to the pot.
- Don’t Over-Stir the Rice: Letting the rice cook undisturbed helps it cook evenly and absorb the flavors without becoming mushy.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes off the heat allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-pot chicken and rice is a comforting, satisfying meal with a combination of juicy chicken and flavorful rice. It’s easy, minimal on cleanup, and versatile enough to customize with your favorite spices and vegetables. Perfect for families or anyone craving a warm, home-cooked dinner with minimal effort.