One Pot Chicken Rice

Name: One Pot Chicken Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 2 cups long-grain rice; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes

One pot chicken rice is a comforting and delicious meal that brings together tender chicken and flavorful rice, all cooked in one pot.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-01T17:50:29.531Z

This One Pot Chicken Rice dish is perfect for busy weeknights. With its easy preparation and minimal cleanup, it's a go-to recipe for families.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Simple and quick preparation with minimal cleanup
Tender chicken and flavorful rice cooked to perfection
A comforting dish that's perfect for the whole family
Versatile - you can add your favorite vegetables!

      

A One-Pot Wonder

One pot chicken rice is the epitome of convenience in the kitchen. With just a single pot required, this recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. The combination of tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice makes for a hearty meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, this dish fits the bill perfectly.

Cooking everything in one pot not only saves on washing up but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. As the chicken cooks, it infuses the rice with savory juices, creating a dish that is rich in taste and texture. Plus, you can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, making it a versatile option for any palate.

Perfectly Cooked Chicken

The secret to juicy and tender chicken lies in the cooking method. By searing the chicken thighs first, you develop a rich golden crust that adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish. This technique locks in moisture, ensuring that your chicken remains succulent throughout the cooking process. Additionally, using boneless and skinless thighs makes the dish lighter while still providing a hearty protein source.

Incorporating chicken broth instead of water enhances the taste significantly, making every bite flavorful. This recipe not only satisfies your hunger but also provides a nutritious meal packed with protein and essential nutrients. It’s a balanced dish that aligns with healthy eating habits without compromising on taste.

Add Your Favorite Vegetables

One of the best aspects of one pot chicken rice is its versatility. Feel free to experiment by adding seasonal vegetables to enhance both the flavor and nutritional profile of the dish. Vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach can be tossed in just before simmering, allowing them to cook perfectly alongside the rice.

Not only do these additions boost the meal’s fiber content, but they also add a pop of color, making your dish visually appealing. This adaptability makes it easy to modify the recipe based on personal preferences and dietary needs, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy a delicious meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
2 cups long-grain rice
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results.

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove chicken and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Add Rice and Broth

Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat with the vegetable mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and return the chicken to the pot.

Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious one pot chicken rice!

Storage Tips

Leftover one pot chicken rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pot to prevent the rice from drying out. Heat over low flame, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

If you wish to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described above for a quick meal.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra layer of flavor, serve your one pot chicken rice with a side of tangy salsa or a zesty salad. A light cucumber or tomato salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty rice dish. Additionally, a sprinkle of lemon juice or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the flavors even further.

Pair this meal with a glass of white wine or iced tea for a complete dining experience. The simplicity of this dish allows you to focus on enjoying the meal and the company around your table, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

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

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and cook it when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.