Delicious one pot chicken and rice dish served in a skillet

One Pot Chicken and Rice

ByCasey Monroe

Why make this recipe

One Pot Chicken and Rice is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy meal. It combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a mix of herbs all in one pot. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also minimizes cleanup, making it great for busy weeknights or simple family dinners. The aromatic spices and seasoned chicken ensure that every bite is full of 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 onion chopped (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 the smoked paprika, mixed herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then set aside.
  3. In a larger bowl, add the chicken thighs and the seasoning mix, reserving about a teaspoon for later. Mix until the chicken is well coated.
  4. Heat 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. Sauté the chopped onions in the hot oil until soft and translucent. Add the butter and stir until melted.
  6. Stir in the rinsed rice and toast it for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
  7. Pour in the chicken stock, add the reserved seasoning, and mix well. Scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze it.
  8. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Arrange the chicken thighs over the rice, cover the pot, and cook on low-medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, depending on the type of rice you use.
  9. Once the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, garnish with chopped green onions. Cover and let it sit for another 3 minutes.
  10. Fluff the rice with a fork, serve, and enjoy!

How to serve One Pot Chicken and Rice

Serve One Pot Chicken and Rice hot right from the pot. You can pair it with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can add a nice touch.

How to store One Pot Chicken and Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken stock or water and warm it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Tips to make One Pot Chicken and Rice

  • Ensure the rice is rinsed well before cooking to remove excess starch.
  • You can use bone-in chicken breasts if you prefer.
  • If you like more color, feel free to add bell peppers or peas during the cooking process.

Variation

For a spicier twist, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the seasoning blend. You could also replace chicken thighs with other proteins like shrimp or tofu for different flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the amount of chicken stock. Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.

2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

3. Can I freeze One Pot Chicken and Rice?
Yes, you can freeze the dish. Just let it cool down completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should be good for up to 3 months.