One-Pot Chicken and Rice
One-Pot Chicken and Rice is a comforting and satisfying dinner made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices, all cooked together in a single pot. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights since it requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. The chicken stays juicy, the rice absorbs all the savory seasonings, and the result is a wholesome, balanced meal the whole family will love. Versatile and customizable, it can be adjusted with your favorite herbs, vegetables, or even different types of rice.
Ingredients
Method
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in rice, chicken broth, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Mix well.
- Nestle chicken thighs back into the pot on top of the rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
- Remove bay leaf, stir in peas, and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Notes
For extra flavor, use smoked paprika or add a pinch of saffron.
You can substitute chicken breasts, but reduce cooking time slightly.
This recipe works with brown rice too – just increase broth and cooking time.
You can substitute chicken breasts, but reduce cooking time slightly.
This recipe works with brown rice too – just increase broth and cooking time.