Description
This comforting One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe combines tender chicken thighs seared to golden perfection with flavorful sautéed onions, garlic, and aromatic spices. Cooked together with long-grain white rice in a single pot, this dish offers a hearty and delicious meal with minimal cleanup, perfect for a family dinner or busy weeknight.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Pantry Items
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to prepare for searing the chicken.
- Season and sear chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Add them to the hot pot and sear for 5-6 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken.
- Toast the rice: Add the rice to the pot and stir for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it and enhance its flavor.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer on medium heat.
- Return chicken and cook: Nestle the seared chicken back into the pot with the rice. Cover the pot and reduce heat to low.
- Simmer until cooked: Cook the covered pot for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Add peas: Stir in frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking if using, so they heat through without overcooking.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Using chicken thighs keeps the meat moist and flavorful, but breasts can be used for a leaner option.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; add more paprika or herbs for extra flavor.
- Frozen peas are optional but add a nice pop of color and sweetness.
- If you prefer, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
- Letting the dish rest off heat helps the rice absorb any remaining liquid for perfect texture.
