Easy One-Pot Chicken and Rice
Description
This Easy One-Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is the ultimate weeknight meal — hearty, flavorful, and ready in under an hour. Juicy chicken thighs are simmered with aromatic spices, tender rice, and vegetables, all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy evenings, this dish is both budget-friendly and family-approved.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
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Sear the Chicken
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add onion, garlic, and carrot. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened
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Add Rice & Spices
Stir in rice and thyme, toasting for 1–2 minutes for extra flavor.
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Deglaze & Simmer
Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release flavor. Add chicken back on top, skin-side up. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
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Cook Until Tender
Cover with a lid and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until rice is cooked and chicken is tender.
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Add Veggies
Stir in frozen peas, cover again, and let rest for 5 minutes.
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Serve
Fluff rice with a fork, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 420kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 16g25%
- Sodium 600mg25%
- Protein 28g57%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
👉Swap chicken thighs with boneless chicken breast for a leaner version.
👉Add extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrition.
👉For a richer flavor, replace half of the chicken broth with coconut milk.
👉Can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
