Description
A simple, family-friendly one-pot dish where tender chicken thighs or breasts are cooked together with long-grain rice, aromatic broth, and seasonings to create a flavorful, comforting meal perfect for a quick dinner.
Ingredients
Protein
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts
Grains
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine recommended)
Liquids
- 3 cups chicken broth
Vegetables
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots or peas
Seasonings
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs or breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the long-grain rice, chicken broth, and your choice of carrots or peas. Mix in paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper to season the mixture evenly.
- Combine Chicken and Rice: Nestle the seared chicken pieces back on top of the rice mixture. This will allow the chicken to finish cooking and absorb flavors as the rice simmers.
- Simmer: Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This helps the rice absorb any remaining liquid. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Notes
- Use basmati or jasmine rice for best texture and flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish.
- Chicken thighs offer more flavor and moisture, but breasts can be used for a leaner option.
- You can substitute vegetables—peas, diced bell peppers, or green beans all work well.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, One-Pot Meal
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
