chicken and rice in one pot recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
chicken and rice in one pot recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best chicken and rice in one pot recipe

I’m so excited to share this chicken and rice in one pot recipe with you all. This dish is a staple in many cultures, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, packed with protein and fiber, and can be customized to suit any taste. I first discovered this recipe while traveling through the Middle East, where it’s known as ‘mujaddara.’

The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and rich spices is truly magic. And the best part? It’s all cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

My family loves this recipe for weeknight dinners, but it’s also perfect for special occasions like holidays or potlucks. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – this dish is a great way to get in some lean protein and complex carbohydrates. I’ve made this recipe countless times over the years, but it never gets old.

In fact, I’ve experimented with different spice blends and added some personal touches to make it my own. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just need a quick and easy meal for one, this chicken and rice in one pot recipe is sure to become a favorite. One of the things I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can customize the spice blend to suit your taste, add in some extra veggies for added nutrition, or even use leftover chicken to make it even quicker to prepare.

My kids adore helping me in the kitchen with this recipe, from measuring out the spices to stirring the pot. It’s a great way to get them involved in cooking and teach them about where food comes from.

One Pot Chicken and Rice

One Pot Chicken and Rice

4.6 from 553 votes

A comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken and fluffy rice cooked together in one pot. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long grain white rice
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup water
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
4Be careful not to burn the garlic.
5Place chicken breasts in the pot, season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
6Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
7Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
8Add rice to the pot and stir to coat in the oil and chicken juices.
9Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the rice is slightly toasted.
10Pour in chicken broth and water.
11Stir well to combine.
12Bring the mixture to a boil.
13Reduce heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
14Avoid lifting the lid during this time.
15Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the pot.
16Stir gently to combine the chicken with the rice.
17Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the chicken is heated through.
18Remove the pot from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
19This allows the rice to steam and become even fluffier.

🔧Equipment

Large pot with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 73mg🧂Sodium: 890mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 29g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like peas or carrots to the pot for extra nutrition and flavor. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.

This chicken and rice in one pot recipe has become a staple in my household – it’s easy to make ahead of time, reheats beautifully, and serves as a great base for various toppings or sides.

My family loves it when I serve leftovers at lunchtime; just reheat the mixture with some additional vegetables or lean proteins on top for an easy meal on-the-go.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Chicken and Rice

Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

In general, boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs work well for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor.

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used as a substitute in this recipe. Just keep in mind that cooking time may be longer due to its nuttier flavor.

Q: How do I store leftover chicken and rice in one pot?

Let the dish cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it. When reheating, make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Q: Can I make this recipe with other types of protein like beef or pork?

While you can experiment with other proteins like beef or pork, keep in mind that cooking times may vary significantly depending on their thickness.

Q: Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe already contains no gluten-containing ingredients; however, if you’re using store-bought spices or seasonings that may contain gluten, double-check their labels before use.

Similar Posts