One Pot Chicken and Rice: 7 Comforting Benefits to Savor

octobre 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, delicious one pot chicken and rice dish! It’s my go-to when I want something simple yet packed with flavor, and it comes together so quickly that it feels like magic. I remember the first time I made this; the aroma of the garlic and onion sizzling in olive oil filled my kitchen and had my family rushing to the table! With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is all about ease and satisfaction. Plus, the one pot means minimal cleanup, which is always a win in my book! Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your home too!

one pot chicken and rice - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful one pot chicken and rice. Trust me, these ingredients come together to create a comforting and flavorful meal that everyone will love!

2 cups of rice (I usually go for long-grain, but any variety works!)
4 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless, your choice!)
1 onion, chopped (this adds such a lovely sweetness)
2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
4 cups chicken broth (you can use low-sodium if you prefer)
1 cup peas (fresh or frozen, they add a pop of color and sweetness)
1 teaspoon paprika (I love the smokiness it brings)
Salt to taste (don’t be shy, but taste as you go!)
Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is always best!)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for that perfect sautéing base)

Make sure you gather everything before you start; it really helps the cooking process flow smoothly!

How to Prepare One Pot Chicken and Rice Instructions

This is where the magic happens! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious one pot chicken and rice ready in no time.

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

First things first, grab your favorite large pot and heat up those 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. This is super important because you want the oil to be hot enough to sauté but not smoking. Just give it a minute or two, and you’ll know it’s ready when it starts to shimmer!

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once the oil is hot, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Oh boy, the aroma that fills the kitchen is heavenly! Sauté them together for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent. You want to see that beautiful golden color starting to develop—trust me, it’s all about building flavor here!

Step 3: Season and Brown the Chicken

Now, it’s time to bring in the star of the show—your chicken thighs! Season them generously with salt, pepper, and that lovely teaspoon of paprika. Give them a good rub to make sure the spices stick. Carefully add the chicken to the pot and let it brown for about 5 minutes on each side. You want a nice golden crust; this is where all that flavor begins! Just don’t overcrowd the pot—if it’s too crowded, they won’t brown properly.

Step 4: Add Rice and Chicken Broth

With the chicken nicely browned, it’s time to stir in 2 cups of rice. Make sure every grain gets coated in the oil and flavors! Then, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Watch closely—once it starts bubbling, it’s showtime!

Step 5: Simmer and Add Peas

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This is where all those flavors meld together and the rice cooks. After 20 minutes, carefully lift the lid and add in your 1 cup of peas. Give it another 5 minutes to cook while covered—it’s the final touch that adds a pop of color and sweetness!

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the pot from heat but resist the urge to dig in right away! Let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to settle and the rice to absorb any remaining broth. Trust me, it makes a difference!

Nutritional Information

Curious about what’s in this delicious one pot chicken and rice? Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving. Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredient brands, so they may vary slightly depending on what you use.

Calories: 450
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 30g

This dish is not only comforting and delicious but also packed with protein and flavor! Perfect for a satisfying meal any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick cooking time—ready in just 40 minutes!
Minimal cleanup—everything cooks in one pot, which means less washing up!
Flavorful and comforting—each bite is a warm hug from the inside!
Perfect for weeknight dinners—easy to make even on the busiest days.

Tips for Success

To make sure your one pot chicken and rice turns out absolutely perfect every time, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips just for you!

Don’t rush the browning: When you’re browning the chicken, give it enough time to develop that beautiful crust. If you try to flip it too soon, it might stick to the pot. Patience is key!
Adjust the seasoning: Everyone’s taste is different, so don’t hesitate to tweak the salt and pepper to your liking. Taste as you go, especially when adding the broth!
Use good quality chicken broth: Since the broth is the base of the flavor, using a high-quality or homemade broth can elevate your dish significantly.
Don’t lift the lid too often: I know it’s tempting to peek, but every time you lift that lid, steam escapes and can affect the cooking time. Keep it covered as much as possible!
Let it rest: After cooking, letting the dish sit for a few minutes allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and makes serving a breeze!
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs. A little thyme or rosemary can add a whole new dimension to the dish!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a one pot chicken and rice pro in no time! Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about this one pot chicken and rice is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:

Different Vegetables: Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach. Just add them in with the onion and garlic for a colorful and nutritious boost!
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper while seasoning the chicken. It’ll give your dish a nice spicy twist!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can elevate the flavor even more. Add them in during the last few minutes of cooking for that fresh, aromatic touch!
Different Rice Varieties: Swap out the white rice for brown rice or even quinoa for a different texture and added nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed!
Protein Swap: Not a fan of chicken thighs? No problem! You can use chicken breasts, or even try this with shrimp or tofu for a delightful vegetarian option.
Curry Flavor: Add a tablespoon of curry powder to the mix for a warm and exotic flavor. This is especially tasty if you throw in some coconut milk instead of part of the broth!

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this dish your own! Each variation can lead to a whole new experience, and I can’t wait to hear what delicious combinations you come up with!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve got some delicious one pot chicken and rice leftovers—lucky you! Storing them properly will help maintain that amazing flavor and texture. Here’s how I do it:

Cool Before Storing: Let the dish cool down to room temperature before transferring it to storage containers. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the rice mushy.
Airtight Containers: Store your leftovers in airtight containers. I like to use glass containers because they keep everything fresh and are great for reheating!
Refrigerate: You can keep your one pot chicken and rice in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to label the container with the date so you know when it was made!

When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, here’s how to reheat them:

Stovetop: For the best flavor and texture, reheat on the stovetop. Just add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pot to help steam it back to life. Stir occasionally over medium heat until heated through.
Microwave: If you’re short on time, the microwave works too! Place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of broth or water, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through, stirring in between.

And voilà! You’ve got leftover one pot chicken and rice that tastes just as good as when you first made it. Enjoy every bite!

What to Serve with One Pot Chicken and Rice

Now that you’ve whipped up a fantastic one pot chicken and rice, let’s talk about the perfect accompaniments to elevate your meal experience! These side dishes and salads not only complement the flavors but also round out the meal wonderfully, catering to various dietary preferences.

Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a fantastic way to add some crunch and brightness to your plate. It’s refreshing and balances the richness of the chicken and rice!
Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, or broccoli in olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then roast them until tender and caramelized. They add a lovely depth of flavor and color to your meal!
Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw with a tangy dressing is a great contrast to the warm, savory chicken and rice. You can prepare it with cabbage, carrots, and a bit of apple for sweetness—yum!
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus with a drizzle of lemon juice is not only nutritious but also makes for an elegant side dish. It pairs beautifully with the one pot chicken and rice!
Quinoa Salad: For a heartier option, consider a quinoa salad mixed with black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers. Toss in a lime dressing for a zesty kick that complements the chicken perfectly.
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with fresh herbs like parsley and mint makes for a delightful side. It’s quick to prepare and adds a nice texture to your meal!

Feel free to mix and match these sides based on your mood or what you have on hand. No matter what you choose, these pairings will enhance your one pot chicken and rice experience and leave everyone at the table satisfied!

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken or Classic Chicken Noodle Soup.

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.