Chicken and Rice (One Pot!)

Here’s an easy and flavorful one-pot chicken and rice recipe. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!

One-Pot Chicken and Rice

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, if preferred)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati)
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk or cream (optional for a creamy version)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Season and Sear Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the pan, skin side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Add Rice and Liquids: Add the rice, chicken broth, milk (if using), thyme, and paprika to the pot. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Nestle Chicken into Rice: Place the chicken thighs on top of the rice, skin side up. Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Add Vegetables: If using peas or mixed vegetables, add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Cover and cook until warmed through.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve hot.

This one-pot chicken and rice dish is flavorful, easy to make, and requires minimal cleanup!