One Pot Chicken & Rice
A Flavorful, Fuss-Free Family Favorite
Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that checks all the boxes? This One Pot Chicken & Rice recipe is the ultimate go-to for busy weeknights or when you want to serve something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Juicy, tender chicken thighs are cooked to perfection alongside fluffy, flavorful rice in a single pot. It’s a simple yet nourishing dish that comes together effortlessly, leaving you with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. This recipe delivers the perfect balance of protein, grains, and veggies to keep you full and happy.
Whether you’re cooking for the family, meal prepping, or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this one-pot wonder is sure to be a hit. The combination of aromatic spices, hearty ingredients, and easy preparation makes it a favorite in our kitchen. Plus, the versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to your taste, ensuring it never gets boring. Let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe that’s guaranteed to become a staple in your meal rotation!
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Kid-Friendly Additions
If you have picky eaters at home, this One Pot Chicken & Rice recipe can easily be adapted to suit even the fussiest little eaters. Here are a few kid-friendly additions and tweaks to make the dish more appealing:
Cheese, Please: Most kids love cheese, so why not stir in some shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan right before serving? It adds a creamy, gooey texture that kids will adore.
Veggies in Disguise: If your kids aren’t keen on vegetables, finely chop or grate them into the dish. Carrots, zucchini, or even cauliflower can be “hidden” in the rice, adding nutrients without being too noticeable.
Make it Mild: If your kids are sensitive to strong flavors, you can dial back on the spices. Stick to mild seasonings like garlic and a pinch of paprika, or even just salt and pepper, keeping it simple but still flavorful.
Colorful Touches: Adding a pop of color can make the dish more visually appealing to kids. Throw in some sweet peas, corn, or bell peppers for a vibrant dish they’ll love to look at and eat.
Fun Shapes: For younger kids, serving the dish in fun ways can increase the appeal. Use a cookie cutter to shape the rice into stars or hearts, turning a simple meal into a fun dining experience.
With these simple tweaks, you can transform this wholesome dish into something the whole family will love, while sneaking in some nutritious ingredients for the little ones!
Tasty Twists on a Classic Dish
Mexican-Inspired Chicken & Rice: Add a Mexican twist by incorporating black beans, corn, and a dash of chili powder or cumin to the rice. Top with shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty finish.
Mediterranean Chicken & Rice: Swap the spices for Mediterranean flavors by adding oregano, lemon zest, and a handful of chopped olives. Finish with crumbled feta and sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, vibrant dish.
Vegetable-Packed Version: Boost the nutrition by adding extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or carrots. Simply toss them in with the rice, and they’ll cook down perfectly, adding color and nutrients to the dish.
Cajun Chicken & Rice: Give your chicken and rice a Southern kick by seasoning the dish with Cajun or Creole spices. Add sliced andouille sausage or shrimp for an extra protein boost, and garnish with chopped green onions for a bold finish.
Creamy Chicken & Rice: For a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk toward the end of cooking. This adds richness to the dish and turns it into an indulgent, comforting meal.
Low-Carb Option: If you’re looking for a lighter option, replace the rice with cauliflower rice. This still soaks up the delicious flavors of the dish but keeps the carbs to a minimum while increasing your veggie intake.
These variations allow you to enjoy a new spin on this classic One Pot Chicken & Rice recipe, ensuring it never gets boring!
One Pot Chicken & Rice
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet or Dutch oven (with a lid)
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Tongs (for flipping chicken)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- 1 Knife and cutting board
- 1 Plate (for resting the chicken)
- 1 Paper towels (for patting the chicken dry)
Ingredients
- 4 Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 Onion, finely chopped
- 3 Cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Red bell pepper, diced
- 1 Cup Long-grain white rice
- 2 Cups Chicken broth
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Dried thyme
- 1 Bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This ensures that the chicken crisps up nicely during the cooking process.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked—it will finish cooking with the rice later.
- Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the chicken sears properly and develops a deep, golden crust.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Add the Spices and Rice:
- Stir in the paprika, cumin, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute to toast the spices. Then, add the rice and stir to coat it with the oil and spices, allowing the rice to lightly toast for about 1 minute.
Deglaze and Simmer:
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (those are full of flavor!). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Nestle the chicken thighs into the rice mixture, skin-side up, and cover the pot with a lid.
Cook the Chicken & Rice:
- Let the dish simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F). Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Finish & Serve:
- Fluff the rice with a fork and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish.
- Trick: If you want extra-crispy chicken skin, pop the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes just before serving.
Notes
Storing, Reheating & Freezing Tips
One Pot Chicken & Rice is not only a delicious meal, but it’s also perfect for making ahead, storing, and reheating. Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers and even freeze the dish for future meals:
Storing Leftovers:
After the dish has cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to keep it tightly sealed to retain the moisture and prevent the rice from drying out.Reheating Tips:
To reheat, place the chicken and rice in a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to keep the rice from becoming too dry, and cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated evenly. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stove in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of liquid if needed.Freezing Instructions:
This dish also freezes beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping or saving for a busy night. Once cooled, portion the chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label and date the containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.Reheating from Frozen:
When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken and rice in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove following the instructions above. If reheating directly from frozen, add a bit of water or broth, cover, and heat on low until fully warmed through.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your One Pot Chicken & Rice stays flavorful and fresh, whether you’re enjoying it as leftovers or freezing it for a future meal.
Your New Go-To Weeknight Recipe
This One Pot Chicken & Rice recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity and comfort, making it an ideal choice for any night of the week. With its juicy chicken and perfectly seasoned rice, you can enjoy a balanced meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The one-pot method not only saves you time in the kitchen but also allows the ingredients to come together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize to your family’s preferences, making it a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
We encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with us. Did you add your own twist? Let us know in the comments below! And don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes like this one. We’re always here to help you bring flavor and joy to your table—one pot at a time!