One Pot Chicken and Rice

One Pot Chicken and Rice: A Southern Comfort Food!

I’m excited to share a recipe that’s near and dear to my heart: One Pot Chicken and Rice.

This dish is a true Southern staple, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Trust me, this one’s a keeper.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First off, let’s talk about convenience. This One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is the epitome of easy cooking.

With just one pan, minimal prep, and a cook time of only 30 minutes, you’ll have a scrumptious meal on the table in no time.

The fewer dishes, the better, right?

Especially for us folks who’d rather spend more time enjoying our meal than cleaning up.

When and Where to Serve

This dish is versatile enough for any occasion.

Whether you’re whipping up a quick family dinner on a hectic weeknight or hosting a casual get-together with friends, One Pot Chicken and Rice fits the bill.

Its comforting flavors and satisfying texture make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Plus, it’s a great option for potlucks or Sunday suppers, where you can share a bit of that Southern hospitality.

What to Serve with One Pot Chicken and Rice

Now, let’s chat about what to serve alongside this hearty dish. While it’s a complete meal on its own, a few side dishes can elevate your dinner spread. Here are some ideas:

Southern-Style Green Beans: Cooked with a bit of bacon and onions, these green beans add a nice crunch and a burst of flavor.

Cornbread: A classic Southern side, cornbread is perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the chicken and rice.

Coleslaw: A refreshing, tangy coleslaw can balance out the rich, savory flavors of the chicken and rice.

Garden Salad: Keep it light and fresh with a simple garden salad. A mix of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will do the trick.

Sweet Tea: And of course, no Southern meal is complete without a tall glass of sweet tea.

Helpful Tips

Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the spices. The smoked paprika and Italian seasoning give the dish its unique flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Chicken Thighs: I recommend using chicken thighs for this recipe. They stay tender and juicy, and their flavor complements the rice perfectly.

Rice: Make sure to rinse the rice until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy.

So there you have it, folks! A simple, delicious One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out. Remember, good food brings people together, and this dish is all about that warm, Southern comfort.

Happy cooking!

One Pot Chicken and Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked basmati rice
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 6 chicken thighs 
• 2 tsp Smoked paprika
• 1 ½ tsp Italian Seasoning
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup onion, chopped 
• 1 tbsp butter
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

To a small bowl, add smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and black pepper and mix to combine. 

Rinse the rice until the water runs clear and set aside.

Add the chicken thighs to a bowl and add the seasoning saving a teaspoon for later. 

Heat the olive oil on medium-high heat.

Mix the chicken in the seasoning until it is well-coated.

Carefully add the chicken to the oil and sear for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. 

Remove the chicken and place it on a plate, set it aside.    

Immediately add the butter and the chopped onions to the hot oil until soft and translucent.

Add in the rice and reserved seasonings and mix.

Toast for about a minute or two making sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. 

Add the chicken stock over the rice. 

Stir making sure nothing is sticking to the bottom of the pan.  

Taste at this point to add any additional seasoning.

Add the chicken thighs back to the pan and cover with a lid.

Cook on medium for 15-20 mins until the rice is tender & fluffy. Don’t over cook!

Serve hot and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rice should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, basmati rice works best due to its light, fluffy texture. However, you can use other long-grain rice varieties if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid if necessary.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. Keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster, so you may need to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Simply add them to the pan when you sauté the onions.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken stock or water to prevent the rice from drying out and microwave or heat on the stove until warmed through.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze One Pot Chicken and Rice. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat on the stove or in the microwave.

What can I use if I don’t have smoked paprika?

If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika and add a pinch of cumin or a few drops of liquid smoke to achieve a similar smoky flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

This One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is great for meal prep. Prepare it in advance and portion it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the brown rice you are using.