Description
One Pot Chicken and Rice is a simple and comforting American main course where tender chicken breasts or thighs, long-grain rice, and savory seasonings cook together in a single pot. This easy stovetop recipe yields a flavorful, satisfying meal perfect for a quick family dinner.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs
Grains
- 1 cup long-grain rice
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup peas or carrots (optional)
Seasonings & Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Brown the chicken: Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the pot and cook until lightly browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Toast the rice: Add 1 cup of long-grain rice to the pot and stir continuously for 1 minute to lightly toast the grains and coat them in the oil and aromatics.
- Add broth and spices: Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Return the chicken to the pot: Nestle the browned chicken pieces back into the pot with the rice and broth mixture. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the dish: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently for 18-20 minutes. This will allow the rice to absorb the liquid and become tender while the chicken cooks through.
- Add vegetables (optional) and serve: If using peas or carrots, stir them in after cooking and allow them to warm through. Serve the one pot chicken and rice warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Using bone-in chicken thighs or breasts adds extra flavor and richness to the dish.
- Feel free to substitute vegetables like peas or carrots with your favorite veggies for variety.
- Ensure the pot is well covered during simmering to trap steam for perfectly cooked rice.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
