One Pot Chicken and Rice
This One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. It brings together tender, juicy chicken thighs with fluffy rice, creating a dish that’s not only comforting but also easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it combines simplicity and flavor into one delicious meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This one pot chicken and rice comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Dish: The combination of spices like smoked paprika and mixed herbs infuses the chicken and rice with rich flavors that everyone will love.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
- Family Friendly: With its comforting taste and satisfying ingredients, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out herbs or add vegetables based on what you have on hand, allowing for creativity in the kitchen.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: This tool is crucial for cooking everything evenly while allowing the rice to absorb all the flavors from the chicken and spices.
- Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls helps keep your ingredients organized, making the preparation process more efficient.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that each ingredient contributes perfectly to the flavor profile of this one pot chicken and rice.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
To make this delightful one pot chicken and rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Chicken and Rice Base
- 1½ cups uncooked basmati rice
- 6 chicken thighs
- 1½ tsp mixed herbs (Substitute with Italian seasoning or herb de Provence)
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
Seasonings
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Essentials
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup onion chopped (any types of onion would work for this recipe)
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 3 cups low sodium chicken stock
Garnish
- ½ cup green onions to garnish (sub with chives, parsley or coriander)
How to Make One Pot Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- To a small mixing bowl, add smoked paprika, mixed herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Thighs
- Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl. Add most of the seasoning mix while reserving about a teaspoon for later use.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly with seasoning.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside on a plate.
Step 4: Cook Onions and Rice
- In the same pot, sauté chopped onions until they are soft and translucent.
- Add butter to melt before stirring in rinsed rice; toast it gently for about 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in low sodium chicken stock, add reserved seasoning, and stir well while scraping any bits off the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Rice
- Arrange seared chicken thighs over the seasoned rice mixture.
- Cover with a lid; reduce heat to low-medium, cooking for about 15–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Once cooked, garnish with chopped green onions before covering again for another 3 minutes.
- Fluff rice with a fork before serving hot.
Enjoy your delicious One Pot Chicken and Rice! This dish will surely become a beloved favorite among family members and friends alike.
How to Serve One Pot Chicken and Rice
One Pot Chicken and Rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
With Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with vinaigrette adds freshness.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw pairs well with the tenderness of chicken and rice, offering a delightful contrast.
Accompanied by Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the flavors of the dish beautifully.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can be served with butter for a comforting addition.
Topped with Sauces
- Hot Sauce: A splash of your favorite hot sauce can add an exciting kick.
- Chimichurri: This herb-based sauce adds a vibrant flavor that pairs well with chicken.
Garnished with Herbs
- Fresh Parsley or Coriander: Chopped fresh herbs not only brighten the dish but also enhance its flavor profile.
How to Perfect One Pot Chicken and Rice
To achieve the best results with One Pot Chicken and Rice, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Chicken: Choosing skinless chicken thighs ensures juiciness and flavor.
- Rinse the Rice Well: Rinsing helps remove excess starch, leading to fluffier rice.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time as different types of rice may require adjustments.
- Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning; taste the mixture before covering it to ensure it’s flavorful.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit before serving helps all flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chicken and Rice
Pairing side dishes with One Pot Chicken and Rice can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans offer nutrition and color to your plate.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a satisfying crunch alongside tender chicken.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds a gourmet touch without much effort.
- Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn brings sweetness that complements savory chicken perfectly.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can introduce additional textures and flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad acts as a sweet contrast to the hearty main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people face challenges when cooking One Pot Chicken and Rice. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Ignoring the rice rinsing step – Rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch, preventing it from becoming gummy. Always rinse until the water runs clear.
- Overcrowding the pot – Adding too much chicken or rice at once can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure enough space for everything to cook properly.
- Not adjusting seasoning – Tasting and adjusting seasoning before serving is crucial. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall flavor of your dish.
- Skipping the deglazing process – Scraping the bottom of the pot after sautéing adds depth to the flavor. Make sure to do this as you combine ingredients.
- Using high heat throughout cooking – Cooking on low-medium heat ensures even cooking without burning. Keep an eye on the temperature during the simmering phase.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing One Pot Chicken and Rice
- Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating One Pot Chicken and Rice
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering with a lid or plastic wrap, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop – Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
One Pot Chicken and Rice is a popular dish, and many have questions about it. Here are some answers.
Can I use other types of chicken for One Pot Chicken and Rice?
Yes! You can substitute skinless chicken breasts or drumsticks based on your preference.
How can I customize my One Pot Chicken and Rice?
Feel free to add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor!
What can I serve with One Pot Chicken and Rice?
This dish pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How long does it take to make One Pot Chicken and Rice?
The total time for this recipe is about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time.
Final Thoughts
One Pot Chicken and Rice is not only simple but also incredibly comforting. This dish delights with its tender chicken and fluffy rice, making it perfect for family dinners. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a heartwarming meal that everyone will love!
Print
One Pot Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ingredients
Scale
- 1½ cups uncooked basmati rice
- 6 chicken thighs
- 1½ tsp mixed herbs
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 3 cups low sodium chicken stock
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until clear, then set aside.
- In a bowl, combine smoked paprika, mixed herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Season the chicken thighs with this mixture.
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm olive oil and sear the seasoned chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté chopped onions in the same pot until soft. Add butter and rinsed rice; toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken stock and add any remaining seasoning; stir to combine.
- Place seared chicken over the rice mixture, cover, reduce heat to low-medium, and cook for 15–20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
