One Pot Chicken and Rice – Easy Recipe You’ll Crave

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and low-effort meal, this One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is your answer. With tender, juicy chicken thighs and fluffy, seasoned rice, it’s the kind of comforting dish that checks all the boxes—quick, affordable, and family-approved. Perfect for busy weeknights, it uses pantry staples and requires minimal cleanup, making it a go-to for anyone craving a satisfying meal without the hassle. Plus, it’s easily customizable and comes together in just 30 minutes.

Why This One Pot Chicken and Rice Is a Must-Try

This recipe isn’t just easy—it’s packed with flavor and versatile enough to suit a variety of dietary needs. The one pot cooking method infuses the rice with rich chicken flavor, while aromatic herbs and spices create a dish that feels indulgent yet is actually quite healthy. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, One Pot Chicken and Rice delivers comfort and convenience in one delicious pan.

• Time-Saving: Ready in under 35 minutes from start to finish.
• Flavor-Packed: Every grain of rice is infused with seasoned chicken juices and broth.
• Healthy Option: Skinless chicken and minimal oil keep things light without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Stores well in the fridge or freezer.

What You’ll Need for This One Pot Chicken and Rice

Here are the ingredients that make this dish shine, with notes on their purpose in the recipe:

• Uncooked Basmati Rice: Produces light, fluffy grains that soak up the flavorful broth.
• Chicken Thighs (Bone-In, Skinless): Provide rich flavor and juicy texture.
• Mixed Herbs: Adds depth and a subtle earthiness; can be swapped for Italian seasoning.
• Smoked Paprika: Offers a gentle heat and smoky aroma.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Balances flavors and enhances seasoning.
• Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: Provide a savory foundation and aroma.
• Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken and sauté aromatics.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps toast the rice.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Stock: Infuses the rice with flavor while cooking it perfectly.
• Green Onions (for garnish): Brighten the dish and add color.

Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions

Don’t worry if you’re missing an ingredient—this dish is very forgiving. Here are some great swaps:

• Rice: Use jasmine or long-grain rice if basmati isn’t available. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Chicken: Substitute thighs with drumsticks or boneless chicken breasts (watch cook time to avoid dryness).
• Herbs: Italian seasoning, herbs de Provence, or dried thyme all work well.
• Smoked Paprika: Sweet paprika or chili powder can substitute, depending on your spice preference.
• Green Onions: Try parsley, coriander, or chives for a fresh finish.
• Butter: Use ghee or a dairy-free margarine for lactose-free needs.

How to Make One Pot Chicken and Rice

Follow these simple steps to create a no-fuss dinner that tastes like it simmered all day.

1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, mixed herbs, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture into the chicken thighs, reserving about 1 teaspoon of the spice mix.
2. Rinse the Rice: Wash the basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high. Add the chicken, skin side down, and sear for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté chopped onions until soft. Add butter and stir to melt.
5. Toast the Rice: Stir the rinsed rice into the onion mixture. Toast for 1–2 minutes, being careful not to let it stick.
6. Add Liquid and Seasoning: Pour in the chicken stock and the reserved spice mix. Scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze and prevent burning.
7. Simmer with Chicken: Arrange seared chicken over the rice. Cover and cook on low-medium heat for 15–20 minutes, or until rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
8. Rest and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions, cover again for 3 minutes, then fluff rice with a fork. Serve hot.

Kitchen Tips to Master One Pot Chicken and Rice

Elevate your One Pot Chicken and Rice with these insider tips:

• Deglazing is key: Scraping up the fond (browned bits) after searing the chicken adds tons of flavor.
• Don’t skip rinsing the rice: This removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming gummy.
• Want more veggies? Toss in chopped spinach or frozen peas 5 minutes before the end of cooking.
• Zest it up: A squeeze of lemon or lime at the end brightens all the flavors.
• Worried about dry-looking chicken tops? Gently stir the chicken into the rice after cooking—it will reabsorb moisture and shine.

What to Serve With One Pot Chicken and Rice

This dish is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but it also plays well with others:

• Vegetables: Steamed carrots, roasted broccoli, or sautéed asparagus complement perfectly.
• Salads: A crisp cucumber and tomato salad adds freshness and balance.
• Toppings: A dollop of Greek yogurt or drizzle of garlic sauce takes it up a notch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 3–5 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.
• Meal Prep Tip: Make a double batch and use leftovers in wraps or burritos.

Health Benefits of One Pot Chicken and Rice

Not only is this dish convenient and tasty, but it’s also packed with nutrients:

• High in Protein: Chicken thighs provide sustained energy and muscle support.
• Good Carbs: Basmati rice offers steady-release carbohydrates for balanced energy.
• Low in Saturated Fat: Cooking without skin and using olive oil keeps this heart-friendly.
• Vitamin-Rich: Green onions and herbs offer antioxidants and vitamins.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, watching your diet, or just need something simple that tastes like you tried harder than you did, One Pot Chicken and Rice is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it once, and it’ll quickly earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation.

Conclusion

One Pot Chicken and Rice is everything a home-cooked meal should be—easy, comforting, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re short on time or energy, this dish delivers on both taste and convenience. It’s a recipe that welcomes personalization, adapts to what you have in your pantry, and always comes out delicious. From busy weeknights to cozy Sunday dinners, this one-pot wonder is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Try it once, and you’ll understand why so many home cooks keep coming back to this simple, satisfying classic. For a meal that truly does it all—One Pot Chicken and Rice is the answer.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Relevant Recipes

• Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken: A comforting and flavorful chicken dish baked in a single pan, combining bold fajita spices and gooey cheese. It pairs beautifully with rice and carries a similar one-pan simplicity and family-friendly appeal.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken (Creamy Delight): This creamy garlic chicken recipe offers rich, savory flavors and a smooth texture that complements rice or pasta. It’s a great variation if you enjoy creamy comfort food like One Pot Chicken and Rice.
• Crock Pot Crack Chicken: A slow-cooked, ultra-creamy chicken recipe with bacon and cheese that’s easy to prepare and perfect with rice or in sandwiches. Ideal for fans of rich, hearty chicken dishes with minimal cleanup.

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