One-pot meals аre super popular for home cooks who want to save time , and cut down on dishes . They taste great and cleanup is easy . One Pot Chіcken and Rice shines as a cozy meal for busy days .
This dish has tender chеcken pieces and soft rice , plus you can throw in lots of veggies . It's real simple so anyone can cook it , even if you dont have much kitchen skill . You can make it gluten-free or low-carb if you need , so it fits most diets .
What is One Pot Chіcken and Rice ?
One Pot Chіcken and Rice is a tasty dish that mixes protein and carbs in one pot . You usually use bone-in chicken for more flavor , and rice to soak up all the juices . Everything cooks together in a big pot or Dutch oven , so the flavors blend and you only get one pot dirty .
You can change this recipe any way you like . Add different veggies , spices , or herbs to suit your taste . It’s a simple base that makes it easy to get creative and use what you have on hand .
Nutritional Benefits
This meal is filling and good for you . The chicken gives you protein for your muscles , and the rice gives you energy . Toss in peas , carrots , or bell peppers and you get extra vitamins , minerals , and fiber too .
Why Make One Pot Chіcken and Rice ?
People love this recipe for how quick it is . You do a few steps and then let it cook . That means less time cooking and more time eating .
Convenience
Cleanup is a snap when you only dirtied one pot . Busy families or anyone who hates washing dishes will really like that .
Versatility
Feel free to swap spices , veggies , or even the protein . Maybe you like garlic and thyme , or lemon and ginger . Every time you make it , you can try a new flavor combo .
Flavor
When the chicken cooks , it releases juices that soak into the rice . All the spices and ingredients mix together for a cozy , rich taste that smells amazing . No wonder lots of people make this dish all the time .
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
To make One Pot Chіcken and Rice , you need a few basics :
- Chicken : Bone-in pieces like thighs or drumsticks work best .
- Rice : Long-grain white rice is usual , but brown rice is fine too .
- Broth : Chicken or veggie broth makes the rice taste better .
Optional Add-ins
Want more flavor or color ? Try these :
- Vegetables : Frozen peas , carrots , bell peppers , or any veggie you like .
- Herbs and Spices : Paprika , thyme , garlic powder , or whatever you love .
Dietary Substitutions
If you have special diets , this works too :
- Gluten-Free : Check that your broth and sauces have no gluten .
- Vegan : Swap chicken for tofu or seitan , and use veggie broth .
Detailed Recipe
Recipe Overview
Title : One Pot Chіcken and Rice
Cooking Time : About 45 minutes
Servings : 4–6 people
Ingredients List
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1.5 cups long-grain rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Directions
Step 1: Searing the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a big pot over medium-high heat . Season chicken with salt and pepper , then brown for 5–7 minutes each side . Take it out and set aside .
Step 2: Sautéing Vegetables
In the same pot , add more oil if you need and toss in frozen veggies . Cook for 3–4 minutes till they’re soft . Stir in garlic powder and thyme so they release flavor .
Step 3: Adding Rice and Broth
Put rice in the pot and stir to coat with oil and veggies . Pour in broth and bring to a gentle boil . Return chicken so it sits in the liquid .
Step 4: Simmering
When it boils , turn heat to low , cover , and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes or till rice is done . Don’t lift the lid or the steam will escape .
Step 5: Final Touches and Serving Suggestions
When it’s ready , turn off heat and leave it covered for 5 more minutes . Fluff rice with a fork and serve hot . Top with fresh herbs if you want . Enjoy your cozy One Pot Chіcken and Rice !
Cooking Tips and Advice
- If rice isn’t done , add a bit more broth and cook a few minutes longer .
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days .
- Reheat on stove or microwave , add more broth if it’s too dry .
One Pot Chicken and Rice
Equipment
- 1 Large pot or Dutch oven
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Lid for the pot
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or use bone-in pieces for added flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup long-grain rice Make sure to check the rice for doneness and adjust cooking time as needed depending on the type of rice used.
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots Optional.
- chopped for garnish parsley Optional.
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Add them to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the rice, ensuring it is well coated with the oil and mixed with the vegetables.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, return the browned chicken to the pot, reduce the heat to low, and cover with a lid. Simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas and carrots if using. Stir gently to combine, then cover until fully heated through.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
