One Pot Chicken and Rice is the ultimate weeknight lifesaver that brings flavor, comfort, and convenience all in one dish. Tender chicken cooks alongside perfectly seasoned rice, absorbing every bit of savory goodness so you get a rich, hearty meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. This simple one-pot recipe is beginner-friendly, uses everyday ingredients, and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that makes everyone gather around the table.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for One Pot Chicken and Rice
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken thighs | 1.5 lbs | Can substitute with chicken breast |
| Long-grain white rice | 1 ½ cups | Rinse before cooking for fluffier rice |
| Chicken broth | 3 cups | Low-sodium preferred |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Carrots | 2 medium | Diced |
| Bell pepper | 1 medium | Any color, diced |
| Frozen peas | ½ cup | Added near the end of cooking |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Freshly ground for best flavor |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | Optional, for color and mild smokiness |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp | Or any preferred herb |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Optional, for brightness at the end |
Optional Add-ins: mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until the vegetables are fragrant and slightly softened. This step builds the base flavor for your One Pot Chicken and Rice.
Step 2: Cooking the Rice and Combining Ingredients
Add the rinsed rice to the sautéed vegetables and stir for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast the grains. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and sprinkle in dried thyme. Nestle the seared chicken back into the pot, making sure it’s partially submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 3: Final Simmer and Serving
Remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Gently fluff the rice with a fork and stir in frozen peas, letting the residual heat warm them through. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice if desired, then serve hot. Your One Pot Chicken and Rice is ready—a comforting, hearty meal with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Tips for Perfect One Pot Chicken and Rice
Adjusting Seasoning and Flavor
To get the most flavorful One Pot Chicken and Rice, taste as you go. Add salt gradually, especially if your chicken broth is already seasoned. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be sprinkled at the end for a pop of color and freshness. For extra depth, a small dash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavors without overpowering the dish.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
One common mistake is lifting the lid too often while cooking, which lets steam escape and can result in unevenly cooked rice. Keep the heat low to prevent burning the bottom layer. Also, make sure to rinse your rice beforehand; this removes excess starch and keeps the grains fluffy rather than clumping together. If you prefer a creamier texture, a teaspoon of butter or olive oil stirred in at the end adds richness.
Variations and Customizations for One Pot Chicken and Rice
Swap the Protein
While the classic recipe uses chicken thighs, you can customize One Pot Chicken and Rice with chicken breast, turkey, or even beef for a different flavor profile. For a lighter twist, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and reduces cooking time.
Change Up the Vegetables
Feel free to add or swap vegetables based on what you have on hand. Mushrooms, zucchini, green beans, or cherry tomatoes make great additions. Frozen mixed vegetables also work and are convenient for busy weeknights. Adding vegetables not only boosts flavor but also increases the nutrition in your one-pot meal.
Flavor Enhancements
Experiment with spices and sauces to create unique flavor twists. Smoked paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning can give the dish a new personality. A splash of soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a little curry powder can completely transform the taste while keeping the cooking simple.
Make It Cheesy or Creamy
For a creamier version, stir in a bit of cream, sour cream, or shredded cheese at the end. It turns your One Pot Chicken and Rice into a comforting, indulgent dish perfect for chilly nights or when you want extra richness.
Serving Suggestions and Meal Ideas
Pairing Sides and Sauces
One Pot Chicken and Rice is already a full meal, but adding simple sides can elevate it even further. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed broccoli complements the savory chicken and rice perfectly. For an extra flavor boost, drizzle a bit of soy sauce, teriyaki glaze, or a squeeze of lemon over the top. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro also add color and freshness to the dish.
Storing Leftovers and Reheating
This dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Keep leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. These features make One Pot Chicken and Rice a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks or quick lunches.
FAQs About One Pot Chicken and Rice
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom?
To avoid sticking, rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, use low heat while simmering, and avoid lifting the lid too often. Adding a small amount of oil or butter can also help keep the rice fluffy.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time—about 35–40 minutes instead of 18–20 minutes. You may need to add a little extra chicken broth to ensure the rice cooks fully.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely. One Pot Chicken and Rice stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to keep it moist. Portions can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or your favorite plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables for flavor and texture.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, layer the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours. Add vegetables that cook quickly near the end to avoid overcooking.
Conclusion
One Pot Chicken and Rice is the ultimate combination of simplicity, flavor, and comfort. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and savory vegetables all in one pot, this recipe saves time while delivering a wholesome, satisfying meal for the whole family. It’s flexible, allowing you to swap proteins, add vegetables, or adjust seasonings to suit your taste. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual family gatherings, this one-pot wonder proves that delicious, homemade meals don’t have to be complicated. Try it today and enjoy a cozy, stress-free dinner that everyone will love.
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One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 35 mins
Description
A simple, comforting, and flavorful one-pot meal with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and sautéed vegetables. Perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680 g) chicken thighs, bone-in or boneless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear seasoned chicken in olive oil until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper in the same pot until softened.
- Add rinsed rice, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and herbs. Nestle the chicken back into the pot. Cover and simmer on low heat until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through, about 18–20 minutes.
- Let sit for 5 minutes, stir in frozen peas, add lemon juice if desired, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–6