Let me tell you, this one pot chicken and rice recipe is a total game changer! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl—super comforting, easy to whip up, and packed with flavor. I love how everything cooks together in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Trust me, the juicy chicken thighs paired with perfectly cooked rice and a hint of paprika is just divine. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or when friends drop by unexpectedly. I remember the first time I made it; my house smelled so good that my neighbors came knocking! Seriously, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this one pot chicken and rice recipe a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups of rice: I usually go for long-grain or basmati for that fluffy texture.
- 4 chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on gives the best flavor, but you can use any chicken parts you prefer.
- 1 onion, diced: A medium onion works wonders for that aromatic base.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor!
- 4 cups of chicken broth: Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine.
- 1 cup of peas: Frozen peas are perfect; they cook quickly and add a pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon of paprika: This gives it a lovely warmth and color. Don’t skip it!
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste—always a must!
How to Prepare One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the deliciousness of this one pot chicken and rice recipe! It’s super straightforward, and I promise, you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal on your table that everyone will love.
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
First things first, heat a splash of oil in your pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot (but not smoking!), toss in your chicken thighs, skin-side down. You want to brown them for about 5-7 minutes until they get that gorgeous golden color. Flip them over to brown the other side for another 5 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate. This step is crucial, as it locks in those tasty juices!
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, add your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Oh, the smell of garlic sizzling is heavenly! This base is where all the flavor begins, so don’t rush it. You want those veggies to soften perfectly to make your dish extra tasty!
Step 3: Add Rice and Broth
Now it’s time to add the rice! Pour in your 2 cups of rice and stir it around for about 2 minutes. This little step helps the rice absorb all those amazing flavors. Next, gently pour in the chicken broth, and sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine everything evenly. It’s starting to look good, isn’t it?
Step 4: Simmer and Add Peas
Carefully return the browned chicken to the pot, nestling it right into the rice. Bring everything to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes. This is where the magic happens! After 20 minutes, stir in the peas and let them cook for an additional 5 minutes. Trust me, this wait is worth it as the flavors meld together beautifully!
Tips for Success
To make your one pot chicken and rice recipe even better, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t skip the browning step—it adds incredible depth of flavor. If you want to experiment, try adding some chopped bell peppers or carrots along with the onion and garlic for extra veggies. Always taste and adjust your seasoning; sometimes a little extra salt makes all the difference. Also, if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some herbs like thyme or parsley right before serving for a fresh kick! Lastly, let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving; it helps the flavors settle!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the ingredients or brands you use. However, for a typical serving of this one pot chicken and rice recipe, you can expect about 450 calories, 15g of fat, 30g of protein, and 50g of carbohydrates. Always feel free to adjust as needed for your dietary preferences!
FAQ Section
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just remember that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to increase the simmering time to about 40-45 minutes. Make sure to check the liquid levels too!
What can I substitute for chicken thighs?
You can use chicken breasts, drumsticks, or even a whole chicken cut into parts. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is cooked through.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it gently on the stove. Just add a splash of broth to keep the rice moist while reheating.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy, or simply cut into the chicken to check for doneness; it should be juicy and no longer pink.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some chopped carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach along with the peas. Just add them at the same time to cook evenly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One pot means less cleanup—more time to enjoy your meal!
- It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a comforting dish.
- Healthy and filling, with lots of protein and fiber from the chicken and peas.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch.
- It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that will impress family and friends!
Serving Suggestions
This one pot chicken and rice recipe is delicious enough to stand on its own, but if you want to elevate your meal, consider serving it with a fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. Some crusty bread on the side is also perfect for soaking up any leftover broth. Enjoy!
Print
One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe: 5 Comforting Steps
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and tasty one pot chicken and rice recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of rice
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of peas
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add chicken thighs and brown on both sides.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add rice and stir for 2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and add paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Return chicken to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- You can use any chicken parts you prefer.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: one pot chicken and rice recipe
