There’s something special about a meal that brings everyone to the table with just one pan and a handful of simple ingredients.

This One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe has all the comfort of a homemade Southern dinner, but it’s easy enough to make on even the busiest weeknights.

Juicy chicken thighs are seasoned with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder before being seared until golden brown.

As the chicken finishes cooking, the basmati rice simmers in flavorful chicken stock, soaking up every bit of those savory seasonings.

The result is tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor in every bite.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how simple it is. Everything cooks in a single pan, which means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying dinner with your family.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal, a comforting Sunday supper, or a budget-friendly dinner that everyone will love, this one pot chicken and rice recipe is one you’ll want to keep on the menu all year long.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of chicken and rice recipes out there, but this one stands out because it’s simple, flavorful, and easy enough to make on even the busiest nights of the week.

Everything cooks together in one pan, allowing the rice to absorb all of the rich flavors from the seasoned chicken and savory broth while keeping cleanup to a minimum.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, planning meals for the week, or simply craving a comforting homemade dinner, this recipe checks all the right boxes.

• One pan means easy cleanup. Everything cooks together in a single skillet, so you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying dinner.
• Simple pantry ingredients. This recipe uses everyday ingredients like chicken thighs, rice, onions, and common seasonings you may already have on hand.
• Perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few minutes of prep and about 45 minutes from start to finish, it’s an easy meal to fit into your schedule.
• Tender, juicy chicken every time. Searing the chicken before simmering helps lock in flavor while creating a delicious golden crust.
• Fluffy, flavorful rice. As the rice cooks in seasoned chicken stock, it absorbs the savory flavors from the chicken and spices for a delicious side that’s anything but bland.
• Easy to customize. Add your favorite vegetables, adjust the seasonings, or garnish with fresh herbs to make this recipe your own.
• Family-friendly comfort food. This hearty meal is satisfying enough for adults while still being mild enough for kids to enjoy.
• Great for leftovers. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.

Helpful Tips

These simple tips will help you make the best One Pot Chicken and Rice every time.

Rinse the Rice Well

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch so the rice cooks up fluffy instead of sticky.

Don’t Skip Searing the Chicken

Browning the chicken before cooking it with the rice adds extra flavor and creates delicious browned bits on the bottom of the pan that season the entire dish.

Use a Tight-Fitting Lid

Keeping the lid on the skillet traps the steam inside, allowing the rice to cook evenly. Try not to lift the lid while it’s simmering.

Taste the Broth Before Cooking

Since different chicken stocks contain different amounts of salt, taste the broth before covering the skillet and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Let It Rest Before Serving

Allow the skillet to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This gives the rice time to finish absorbing the remaining liquid and makes it easier to fluff with a fork.

Use the Right Pan

A large skillet with a tight-fitting lid works best for this recipe. If your pan is too small, the rice may not cook evenly.

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan with a lid
• Medium mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Tongs
• Fine mesh strainer
• Instant-read meat thermometer (optional, but recommended)

Save this One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe for later:

One Pot Chicken and Rice

Ingredients

You’ll only need a handful of simple pantry staples to make this easy One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe.

• 1 cup uncooked basmati rice, rinsed until the water runs clear
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 chicken thighs
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup yellow onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

This recipe uses simple ingredients that work together to create a flavorful, comforting meal without requiring any hard-to-find items.

Ingredient Notes

A few simple ingredients make all the difference in this recipe. Here are a few tips to help you get the best results.

Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs stay tender and juicy while cooking with the rice. Boneless, skinless thighs are easy to work with, but bone-in thighs can also be used if you don’t mind adding a little extra cooking time.

Basmati Rice

Basmati rice cooks up light and fluffy, making it an excellent choice for one pan meals. Be sure to rinse the rice several times until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and help prevent the rice from becoming sticky.

Chicken Stock

Using low-sodium chicken stock instead of water gives the rice much more flavor. Since sodium levels vary by brand, taste the broth before adding extra salt to the recipe.

Smoked Paprika

Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color to the chicken without making the dish spicy.

Italian Seasoning

Italian seasoning adds a blend of herbs that complements both the chicken and the rice, giving the dish a well-rounded flavor.

Butter

A small amount of butter helps soften the onions and adds richness before the rice begins cooking.

Olive Oil

Olive oil helps create a beautiful golden crust when searing the chicken while preventing it from sticking to the pan.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about this One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few simple ways to make it your own.

Use Chicken Breasts Instead

If you prefer white meat, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well in this recipe. Since chicken breasts cook faster than thighs, keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Add More Vegetables

Stir in frozen peas, chopped carrots, mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli to make this a complete one-pan meal. Add delicate vegetables like spinach near the end of cooking so they don’t become overcooked.

Make It Creamy

For a richer meal, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a little cream cheese after the rice has finished cooking. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.

Turn Up the Heat

If your family enjoys spicy food, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or a few diced jalapeños to the seasoning blend.

Try Different Herbs

Fresh parsley adds a bright finishing touch, but chopped thyme, rosemary, or chives also pair well with the savory chicken and rice.

Swap the Rice

Basmati rice gives this dish a light, fluffy texture, but long-grain white rice can also be used. Keep in mind that different varieties of rice may require slight adjustments to the cooking time and liquid.

Add Cheese

For an extra comforting meal, sprinkle shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella cheese over the top during the last few minutes of cooking until melted.

How to Make One Pot Chicken and Rice:

Step 1
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2
Rinse the basmati rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain well and set aside.

Step 3
Place the chicken thighs in a medium bowl. Reserve about 1 teaspoon of the seasoning mixture, then sprinkle the remaining seasoning over the chicken. Toss until each piece is evenly coated.

Step 4
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 5
Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the hot skillet and sear for about 3 minutes per side, or until lightly golden brown.

Step 6
Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 7
Add the butter and chopped onion to the same skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.   

Step 8
Add the rinsed rice to the skillet. Sprinkle the reserved teaspoon of seasoning over the rice and stir to combine.

Step 9
Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to lightly toast the rice and keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 10
Pour the chicken stock into the skillet and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Taste the broth and add additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 11
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice. Cover with the lid. 

Step 12
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Avoid lifting the lid while the rice cooks.

Step 13
Remove from the heat and let the skillet rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

What to Serve with One Pot Chicken and Rice

This One Pot Chicken and Rice is a complete meal on its own, but adding a few simple side dishes can make dinner even more satisfying. Here are some of my favorite pairings.

Southern Green Beans

Slow-cooked Southern green beans add a delicious, savory side that pairs perfectly with the seasoned chicken and fluffy rice.

Garden Salad

A crisp garden salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to this hearty meal.

Roasted Broccoli

Roasted broccoli is an easy vegetable side that complements the rich flavors of the chicken while adding a little extra color to your plate.

Steamed Asparagus

Tender asparagus is another simple side dish that cooks quickly and pairs well with almost any chicken dinner.

Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

Warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up every last bit of the flavorful broth.

Cornbread

For a classic Southern meal, serve this recipe with a slice of homemade cornbread. It’s a comforting combination that’s perfect for Sunday supper.

Fresh Fruit

Finish the meal with fresh fruit such as strawberries, grapes, watermelon, or cantaloupe for a light and refreshing dessert.

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How to Store One Pot Chicken and Rice

Allow the chicken and rice to cool to room temperature before storing any leftovers.

Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Keeping the chicken and rice sealed tightly will help maintain its flavor and prevent the rice from drying out.

For the best texture, store the chicken and rice together rather than separating them.

Can You Freeze One Pot Chicken and Rice?

Yes! This recipe freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep or saving leftovers for another day.

Allow the chicken and rice to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Label and date each container, then freeze for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the chicken and rice overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Reheat One Pot Chicken and Rice

One Pot Chicken and Rice reheats well, making it a great option for quick lunches and easy dinners throughout the week.

Microwave

Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of chicken broth or water to help keep the rice moist. Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring the rice between each interval, until heated through.

Stovetop

Transfer the leftovers to a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a few tablespoons of chicken broth or water and stir occasionally until the chicken and rice are warmed through.

From Frozen

For best results, thaw the chicken and rice overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If reheating directly from frozen, use a lower heat and add a little extra broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great substitute. Since they cook more quickly than chicken thighs, be careful not to overcook them so they stay tender and juicy.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, but cooking times and the amount of liquid needed may vary. Long-grain white rice is the easiest substitute for basmati rice. Brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.

Why should I rinse the rice first?

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, which helps it cook up light and fluffy instead of sticky.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F when checked with an instant-read meat thermometer.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! One Pot Chicken and Rice reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep, busy weeknights, or packing lunches for the week.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, as long as you’re using a large enough skillet or Dutch oven. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly if doubling the recipe.

Why is my rice still crunchy?

Crunchy rice usually means it needs a little more cooking time or a little more liquid. Add a splash of chicken stock, cover the skillet, and continue cooking for a few more minutes until the rice is tender.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Allow the chicken and rice to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

What vegetables go well in this recipe?

Mushrooms, peas, carrots, broccoli, spinach, and green beans all pair well with this dish. Add delicate vegetables like spinach during the last few minutes of cooking so they stay tender and vibrant.

Can I use homemade chicken stock?

Absolutely! Homemade chicken stock adds wonderful flavor to this recipe. Since the salt content can vary, taste the broth before adding any additional seasoning.

Need an easy dessert idea?

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