One Pot Chicken and Rice dish with vibrant vegetables and herbs

One Pot Chicken and Rice

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

One Pot Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and fluffy rice, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. It combines simple ingredients that pack a lot of flavors, making it a favorite in many households. Plus, it’s versatile and can be adjusted to fit your taste!

How to Make One Pot Chicken and Rice

Ingredients:

  • 1½ cups uncooked basmati rice
  • 6 chicken thighs
  • 1 ½ tsp mixed herbs (Substitute with Italian seasoning or herb de Provence)
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped onion (any type of onion would work for this recipe)
  • 1 Tbsp butter
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken stock
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup green onions to garnish (sub with chives, parsley or coriander)

Directions:

  1. In a small mixing bowl, combine smoked paprika, mixed herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Rinse the basmati rice under running water until it runs clear. Set aside.
  3. Take the chicken thighs and place them in a larger bowl. Add the seasoning mix, reserving about a teaspoon for later. Mix until the chicken is coated well.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken, skin side down, and sear for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
  5. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions in the hot oil until they become soft and translucent. Add the butter and stir until it melts.
  6. Add the rinsed rice to the pot and toast for about 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring it does not stick to the bottom.
  7. Pour the chicken stock over the rice, add the reserved seasoning, and stir to combine. Scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze it, which helps prevent sticking.
  8. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  9. Arrange the chicken thighs over the rice, cover the pot, and cook on low-medium heat for about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on your rice type. When done, the rice should be tender, fluffy, and have absorbed the water.
  10. Garnish the dish with chopped green onions, cover, and let it stand for an additional 3 minutes. Use a fork to fluff the rice, serve, and enjoy!

How to Serve One Pot Chicken and Rice

Serve One Pot Chicken and Rice hot, straight from the pot. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables if you like. Garnish with extra green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Store One Pot Chicken and Rice

Store any leftover One Pot Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to keep it moist.

Tips to Make One Pot Chicken and Rice

  • Ensure to rinse the rice well to remove excess starch, helping to achieve fluffy rice.
  • Feel free to customize the seasoning based on your taste; add a pinch of cayenne for heat or lemon juice for brightness.
  • For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless.

Variation

You can easily adapt this recipe by incorporating different vegetables, such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots. Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer, but adjust the cooking time as breasts cook faster.

FAQs

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice?
A: Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more water. Adjust the chicken stock accordingly.

Q: Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can sauté the chicken and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for about 4-6 hours.

Q: What if I don’t have chicken thighs?
A: You can substitute chicken thighs with any chicken parts, but cooking times may vary, especially with boneless cuts.