Description
A comforting and flavorful one pot chicken and rice recipe that combines tender seared chicken thighs with aromatic spices and fluffy rice, all cooked together for an easy and satisfying meal served in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Base and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Rice and Liquids
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Additional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Season and sear the chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Add them to the hot pot and sear each side for 5-6 minutes until nicely browned. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
- Toast the rice: Add 1 cup of long-grain white rice to the pot and stir for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the grains, enhancing their flavor.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook chicken and rice: Return the seared chicken to the pot, nestling it into the rice mixture. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it cook undisturbed for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Add peas: Five minutes before the cooking time is up, stir in 1/2 cup of frozen peas if using, allowing them to heat through.
- Rest and garnish: After cooking, turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting time helps finish cooking and meld flavors. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat; breasts can be substituted but may be less tender.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or spices if desired.
- Frozen peas are optional but add a pop of color and sweetness.
- For more depth of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese when serving.
- This dish can be adapted to cook with brown rice, but increase the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
