One Pot Chicken and Rice

This One Pot Chicken and Rice dish is perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to cozy family dinners. With its tender chicken thighs and fluffy rice, this recipe combines comfort and flavor in a single pot. The unique blend of herbs and spices elevates the dish, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Easy to prepare and clean up, it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in about 30 minutes.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less mess and fewer dishes to wash afterward.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of smoked paprika and mixed herbs brings out the best flavors in chicken and rice.
• Versatile Meal: This dish pairs well with various sides or can stand alone as a hearty main course.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the tender chicken and fluffy rice, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here are some must-have items for preparing this one pot chicken and rice.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or Dutch oven: A wide surface allows for even cooking and browning of the chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining seasonings and marinating the chicken effectively.

Ingredients

This one pot chicken and rice is about to be your family’s favourite. The skinless chicken thighs are tender and juicy, while the rice is perfectly fluffy. This is sure a winner weeknight dinner you will enjoy. It is simple, comforting, and delicious.

For the Chicken

• 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
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

• 1½ cups uncooked basmati rice
• 1 cup onion chopped (any types of onion would work for this recipe.)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp butter
• 3 cups low sodium chicken stock.
• ½ cup green onions to garnish (sub with chives, parsley or coriander)

How to Make One Pot Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

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 cold water until it runs clear; set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. In a larger bowl, add the chicken thighs along with most of the seasoning mixture (reserve about a teaspoon for later).
2. Mix well until each thigh is evenly coated.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place chicken thighs skin side down into the hot oil; sear for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Remove seared chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Cook Onions and Rice

1. In the same skillet with remaining oil, sauté chopped onions until soft and translucent.
2. Add butter; stir until melted.
3. Stir in rinsed rice; toast for about 1–2 minutes while avoiding sticking to the pan bottom.
4. Pour chicken stock over toasted rice; add reserved seasoning mixture—stir to combine thoroughly.
5. Deglaze by scraping any bits stuck at the bottom of the pan to prevent burning during cooking.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Rice

1. Arrange seared chicken thighs over seasoned rice mixture.
2. Cover with lid; reduce heat to low-medium.
3. Cook for about 15–20 minutes or until rice is tender, fluffy, and liquid has been absorbed.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Garnish cooked dish with chopped green onions; cover again to rest for an additional 3 minutes.
2. Fluff rice gently with a fork before serving.

Enjoy your delightful One Pot Chicken and Rice!

How to Serve One Pot Chicken and Rice

One Pot Chicken and Rice is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal and impress your family.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add color and flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens up the dish with fresh acidity.

Accompaniments

• Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad complements the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender make a great side.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for soaking up extra juices.

Sauce Options

• Hot Sauce: Add a kick of heat with your favorite hot sauce on the side.
• Yogurt Dressing: A cool yogurt dressing balances flavors nicely.

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How to Perfect One Pot Chicken and Rice

Perfecting One Pot Chicken and Rice involves paying attention to details. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use Quality Chicken: Choose skinless chicken thighs for tenderness and flavor.
• Rinse the Rice: Rinsing removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming gummy.
• Sear the Chicken Well: Properly sear the chicken for a golden crust adds depth of flavor.
• Adjust Liquid Accordingly: Different rice types may require slightly different amounts of liquid, so check package instructions.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to rest after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Fluff Before Serving: Fluffing the rice before serving ensures a light and fluffy texture.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chicken and Rice

Pairing sides with One Pot Chicken and Rice enhances your dining experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Adds bright color and nutrients; steam lightly for best texture.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm rice dish.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings earthy flavors that complement the chicken.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad offers a healthful addition to your meal.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs perfectly with savory dishes, especially in summer months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One Pot Chicken and Rice, it’s easy to make small errors that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season both the chicken and rice adequately will lead to bland flavors. Make sure to coat the chicken well and reserve some seasoning for the rice.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for a perfect sear on each side and then let it finish cooking with the rice.
• Neglecting to rinse the rice: Not rinsing your basmati rice can result in a sticky texture. Always rinse until the water runs clear to achieve fluffy rice.
• Using high heat throughout: Cooking on too high of a heat can burn the bottom layer of rice. Keep it on medium-low once you add the stock to ensure even cooking.
• Not letting it rest: Skipping the resting period after cooking can result in mushy rice. Allow it to stand covered for a few minutes before serving.
• Ignoring garnishes: Forgetting to garnish your dish with green onions or herbs takes away from its visual appeal and freshness. Always finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing One Pot Chicken and Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating One Pot Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid or plastic wrap, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken stock or water in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to One Pot Chicken and Rice that might help you out.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but remember that brown rice requires more cooking time and liquid. Adjust accordingly.

How do I make this One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe gluten-free?

Ensure you use gluten-free chicken stock and check all other ingredients for gluten content.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Can I substitute chicken thighs with another kind of meat?

Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts or even turkey; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is not spicy but you can add chili powder or fresh chilies if you prefer a kick!

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chicken and Rice is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The tender chicken combined with fluffy rice makes it a comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, making it truly your own!