One Pot Chicken Rice is a simple and delicious dish that has become a staple in my kitchen. This one-pot meal features tender chicken thighs cooked with fluffy rice and peas, all seasoned to perfection. The combination of flavors creates a comforting dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Chicken Rice

This one-pot chicken and rice dish is not only quick to make but also nutritious and comforting. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

It’s a complete meal in one pot, saving you time on cleanup.
The flavors meld beautifully, offering a delightful eating experience.
It’s a healthy option with lean protein and vegetables, making it suitable for families.
The recipe is adaptable, allowing you to add your favorite spices or vegetables.
It can be prepared in under 50 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Kids love it, making it a great choice for family meals.

This recipe is a quick one-pot chicken rice solution that fits well into a healthy diet. You’ll find it becomes a go-to in your weekly meal planning.

Ingredients for One Pot Chicken Rice

Gather these items:

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make One Pot Chicken Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5–7 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and crisp. Flip and cook for another 4–5 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in the rinsed rice, coating it in the oil and aromatics. Toast for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the grains look slightly translucent at the edges.
Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme, along with another small pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine and spread the rice into an even layer.
Step 6: Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice, skin-side up, along with any accumulated juices from the plate. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 7: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover tightly with a lid, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender, most of the liquid is absorbed, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Avoid lifting the lid too often.
Step 8: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, quickly lift the lid and scatter the frozen peas over the rice. Cover again and let cook until the peas are heated through and the rice finishes steaming.
Step 9: Remove from the heat and let the pot stand, covered, for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and the rice to finish steaming.
Step 10: Fluff the rice gently with a fork, avoiding breaking up the chicken too much. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm straight from the pot.

Pro Tips for the Best One Pot Chicken Rice

Keep these in mind:

Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness; this is a great tip for a healthy one-pot chicken rice.
Don’t skip the searing step; it adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
For added vegetables, consider including bell peppers or carrots.
Make sure to let the dish rest after cooking; this enhances the flavors.

Best Ways to Serve One Pot Chicken Rice

Here are some serving ideas:

Pair with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast.
Top with sliced avocado for a creamy touch.
Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

How to Store and Reheat One Pot Chicken Rice

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent the rice from drying out. This dish is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Chicken Rice

What is one-pot chicken rice?

One-pot chicken rice is a convenient dish where chicken and rice are cooked together in a single pot. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping cleanup minimal.

Can I make one-pot chicken rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Simply cook it and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat when ready to serve, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with one-pot chicken rice?

To avoid mushy rice, stick to the recommended cooking times and avoid lifting the lid during cooking. This ensures the rice steams properly.

Variations of One Pot Chicken Rice You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Add fresh vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a nutritious boost.
Incorporate spices such as cumin or curry powder for an exciting flavor twist.
Replace chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner option; this keeps it gluten-free and suitable for various diets.

Delicious One Pot Chicken Rice for Family Dinners - One Pot Chicken Rice - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Pumpkin Cobbler or Peach Upside Down Mini Cakes.

Delicious One Pot Chicken Rice for Family Dinners - One Pot Chicken Rice - additional detail

For tips on meal prepping, you can refer to this food safety guide.