Looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal? This One-Pot Chicken and Rice dish is the perfect solution! It’s a complete meal cooked in one pot, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. The chicken is cooked to perfection with a savory seasoning, and the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors, making it a comforting and satisfying dish for any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 grams) of chicken thighs or breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup (200 grams) of white rice, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) of chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) of water
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the spices.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and sear them until they are golden brown on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Aromatics
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Rice and Chicken
- Add Rice and Tomatoes: Add the rinsed white rice to the pot, stirring it into the onion and garlic mixture. Allow the rice to toast slightly for about 2 minutes. Then, add the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice) and stir to combine.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring to ensure everything is well mixed.
- Return Chicken to the Pot: Add the seared chicken pieces back into the pot, nestling them into the rice mixture.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- Check and Stir: Occasionally check the pot to ensure the rice isn’t sticking to the bottom. Stir gently if necessary.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Fluff and Rest: Once the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, turn off the heat. Allow the dish to rest, covered, for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Garnish and Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Rinse the Rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
- Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken pieces are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Adding a pinch of chili flakes can give the dish a nice kick.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
- Different Grains: Substitute white rice with brown rice or quinoa, adjusting the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
- Herb Choices: Experiment with different herbs such as cilantro or basil to vary the flavor profile.
This One-Pot Chicken and Rice dish is not only delicious and filling but also incredibly convenient. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend dinner. The combination of tender chicken and flavorful rice cooked together ensures every bite is packed with taste. Plus, with only one pot to clean, you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal and relax. Try this recipe today and discover your new favorite comfort food!
