If you’re craving a comforting meal that’s both incredibly flavorful and ridiculously easy to make, this One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Imagine tender chicken thighs seared to golden perfection, mingling with fluffy rice that soaks up all those rich broth and spice notes, plus a pop of sweetness from peas—all cooked together in one pot for fuss-free cleanup. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe comes alive thanks to simple, everyday ingredients. Each plays a crucial role: the chicken thighs bring juicy richness, rice adds hearty comfort, and herbs and veggies layer in flavor and freshness.
- Chicken thighs: Use bone-in for extra flavor or boneless for quicker cooking.
- Rice: Long-grain rice works best to stay fluffy and separate.
- Chicken broth: This is your secret weapon for moist rice and deep savory notes.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and a fragrant base when sautéed.
- Garlic: Provides that essential punch of aroma and taste.
- Frozen peas: A burst of color and subtle sweetness added near the end.
- Paprika: Gives warmth and a subtle smoky depth.
- Salt and pepper: To taste—seasoning is key for balanced flavors.
- Olive oil: For perfectly crisping the chicken and softening the veggies.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until it’s shimmering with promise. Toss in diced onions and minced garlic, cooking them gently so they become translucent and release their sweet, savory fragrances—this step builds the flavorful foundation for the entire dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
While the onions soften, season your chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add them to the pot and brown each side for 4 to 5 minutes to lock in juices and create that golden crust that’s pure mouthwatering magic.
Step 3: Add Rice and Broth
Once the chicken is beautifully seared, stir in the rice and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil—the moment everything starts mingling, your kitchen will fill with the smell of comfort in the making.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Turn the heat down low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This slow cooking allows the rice to soak up all the rich broth and the chicken to become tender, creating a harmonious one-pot meal.
Step 5: Add the Peas
In the last five minutes of cooking, sprinkle in the frozen peas. They’ll heat through perfectly while adding a refreshing pop of color and a little burst of natural sweetness that balances the savory notes.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let the dish sit, covered, for a few minutes. This brief resting period lets the flavors fully meld and the rice finish steaming, giving you a dish that’s juicy, fragrant, and ready to enjoy.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten this dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. A squeeze of lemon juice adds an unexpected zing that lifts the hearty flavors. If you like a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes is a fantastic option.
Side Dishes
Since this One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is so complete on its own, you might want to keep sides simple. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables complements the richness beautifully. Alternatively, crusty bread is perfect for scooping up those delicious last bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this comforting dish straight from the pot at the table for a cozy vibe, or plate it nicely with a flip of chicken atop a bed of rice for an elegant touch. You can also turn it into a vibrant meal prep option by packing it in divided containers, layering the protein over the rice for easy reheating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the dish keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners when you’re short on time.
Freezing
This One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe freezes nicely. Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. For best quality, consume frozen meals within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to bring back moisture, or microwave covered in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps keep the chicken tender and the rice fluffy instead of dry.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but because they are leaner, keep an eye on cooking time to avoid drying out. Thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful in this recipe.
What type of rice is best for this recipe?
Long-grain white rice works best as it cooks evenly and remains fluffy without getting mushy. Avoid quick-cooking or risotto rice varieties that may alter the texture.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added along with the onions for extra color and nutrition. Just be mindful of cooking times for each vegetable.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always check the label of your broth to be certain.
How spicy is this dish?
This One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is mild with only warming paprika for flavor. You can easily adjust the spice level with chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce, depending on your preference.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe enough—it’s a beautiful balance of simplicity and comfort that feels like a little celebration each time you make it. Whether you’re a kitchen beginner or someone who loves to savor home-cooked meals without the stress, this recipe fits right into your routine. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your dinner rotation!
Print
One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish combining tender chicken thighs with perfectly cooked rice and vibrant peas. Prepared entirely in one pot, this meal is simple, quick, and ideal for family dinners, delivering a comforting blend of savory spices and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound chicken thighs
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
Grains and Liquids
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, preparing the base for sautéing.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, stirring frequently until they are fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Brown Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add them to the pot and brown each side for 4-5 minutes to develop flavor and color.
- Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the rice and pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil to start the cooking process.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the contents simmer for approximately 20 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors and cook through.
- Incorporate Peas: During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas to heat them through without losing their texture and color.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes before serving to let the dish set and flavors meld.
Notes
- Use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs depending on preference; cooking time may vary slightly.
- Ensure the rice is evenly distributed before covering to avoid uneven cooking.
- For added flavor, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.
- If preferred, substitute green peas with other vegetables like diced carrots or bell peppers.
- Adjust seasoning as needed after cooking.
