One-Pot Chicken and Rice

Name: One-Pot Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 1 cup long grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this One-Pot Chicken and Rice recipe that brings together succulent chicken thighs, aromatic herbs, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy, flavorful dish minimizes cleanup while maximizing taste, making it a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-11-13T15:14:18.413Z

This One-Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is designed to create a hearty meal with minimal fuss. Perfect for families looking to enjoy classic flavors in a convenient format.

A Delicious Family Meal

One-Pot Chicken and Rice is a recipe that brings the family together around the dinner table, creating an atmosphere of warmth and love. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for those busy nights when time is limited. The tender chicken thighs, when combined with fluffy rice and savory herbs, create a satisfying meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters. Everyone will be asking for seconds!

This recipe is also highly adaptable to your family's tastes. Feel free to throw in your favorite vegetables or spices to customize the dish further. Whether it’s adding bell peppers for a pop of color or swapping out peas for carrots, the options are endless. This flexibility makes One-Pot Chicken and Rice a recipe that you can rely on, time and time again.

Culinary Simplicity

The beauty of this one-pot wonder lies in its simplicity. With minimal prep work and clean-up, you can focus more on enjoying the meal rather than spending hours in the kitchen. The searing of the chicken, sautéing of the aromatics, and simmering of the rice all happen in the same pot. This method not only enhances the flavors but also reduces the number of dishes needed, making it a dream for busy home cooks.

Moreover, the layered cooking technique means that all the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a wholesome and hearty dish. The chicken remains juicy and tender, while the rice absorbs all the savory goodness from the broth and seasonings. This is the type of meal that invites everyone to gather and share stories over the dinner table.

Health Benefits

In addition to being a comforting and satisfying dish, One-Pot Chicken and Rice serves as a nutritious meal option. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein and essential nutrients, helping to keep you full and energized. The addition of peas not only adds a pop of color but also brings in vitamins and fiber, making this dish more balanced.

Choosing low-sodium chicken broth can help keep the dish heart-healthy without sacrificing flavor. Overall, this recipe is designed to not only delight your taste buds but also support your well-being, making it a smart choice for family dinners.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
1 cup long grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients needed for your One-Pot Chicken and Rice.

Instructions

Sear the Chicken

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper and sear them in the pot for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice, chicken broth, thyme, and peas to the pot. Stir well to combine, then place the seared chicken thighs back on top.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.

Serve

Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Fluff the rice with a fork and enjoy your meal!

Enjoy your One-Pot Chicken and Rice!

Tips for Success

To ensure that your One-Pot Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time, be sure to season liberally with salt and pepper. Don’t shy away from experimenting with other herbs and spices, such as rosemary or bay leaves, to add depth to the flavor profile. Additionally, let the chicken thighs rest before slicing into them; this helps to keep the juices locked in, rendering them even more succulent.

If you prefer crispy skin, finish the chicken under the broiler for a few minutes after it has cooked through. This method provides that delicious contrast between the crunchy exterior and tender meat, making every bite a delightful experience.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often improve overnight as the rice continues to soak up the spices and juices. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist and prevent it from drying out. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, making it a convenient option for lunches throughout the week.

If you find yourself with more than enough for one meal, consider freezing portions. This dish freezes well and can be a lifesaver on those extra busy days when cooking from scratch is not an option. Just remember to defrost it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

To complement this hearty dish, consider serving it with a light salad or steamed vegetables. A fresh side can balance out the richness of the chicken and rice, creating a well-rounded meal. A simple vinaigrette or lemon dressing can add some brightness and tang to your salad, enhancing the overall dining experience.

If you want to elevate your meal further, consider offering a selection of dipping sauces or salsas alongside. Options like chimichurri or a mango salsa can add exciting flavors, turning a simple dinner into a delightful feast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice usually takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.