Looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that doesn’t leave you with a pile of dishes? This one-pot chicken and rice is everything you want in a weeknight dinner — comforting, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes. With juicy chicken, fluffy seasoned rice, and warm spices, this dish tastes like it took hours… but it’s actually super easy.
It’s the kind of cozy recipe your family will ask for again and again — and since it’s all made in one pot, cleanup is quick and painless.
Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking on the fly, this one-pot chicken and rice recipe is simple, adaptable, and 100% satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Chicken and Rice
It’s fast (ready in 30 minutes)
Cooks in just one pot
Family-friendly, meal-prep approved
Can be made with pantry ingredients
Great for weeknights or cozy weekends
Easy to customize with veggies or spices
This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want real food — fast.
What You’ll Need
Boneless chicken thighs or breasts
Long grain rice (white or jasmine)
Onion & garlic
Chicken broth
Seasonings (paprika, thyme, cumin, salt, pepper)
Olive oil
Optional veggies: peas, carrots, bell peppers
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
1 cup long grain rice
1 small onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
2¼ cups chicken broth
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp dried thyme
Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional: ½ cup peas, ½ cup diced carrots, chopped parsley for garnish
How to Make One-Pot Chicken and Rice
Step 1 – Brown the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Add to the pot and sear on both sides until golden (about 2–3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
Step 2 – Sauté aromatics
In the same pot, add onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic, paprika, cumin, and thyme. Cook for 30 seconds.
Step 3 – Add rice and broth
Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it with all the flavors. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Return the chicken to the pot.
Step 4 – Simmer
Lower heat, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Step 5 – Fluff and serve
Remove from heat, let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork, garnish with parsley, and enjoy.
Flavor Variations
Add peas, carrots, or bell peppers for color and sweetness
Use turmeric or saffron for a golden hue
Make it spicy with chili powder or cayenne
Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu
Serving Ideas
Pair this one-pot chicken and rice with:
A side of roasted vegetables
A crisp cucumber salad
A dollop of yogurt or tzatziki
Warm pita or naan bread
Meal Prep & Storage
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 4 days
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months
Reheat: Microwave or reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth
Chef Aiden’s Tip: Add a bit of lemon juice when reheating to freshen up the flavors!
Nutrition Tips
This dish is a balanced source of protein, carbs, and fiber (if veggies are added). To reduce fat, use chicken breast and skip extra oil. To make it more filling, add beans or lentils for a fiber boost.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but it will take 15–20 minutes longer and may require more broth.
Can I make this with leftover chicken?
Yes! Just skip searing and add it after the rice is nearly done.
Can I make it dairy-free or gluten-free?
It’s already both — just check your broth label.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a larger pot and adjust the broth ratio to about 2.25 cups per cup of rice.
Chef Aiden’s Tip
Before serving, drizzle with a touch of olive oil or add a squeeze of lemon. These little touches brighten the dish and make your one-pot chicken and rice feel extra special — like a hug in a bowl.
