One Pot Chicken Rice

Name: One Pot Chicken Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 2 cups jasmine rice, rinsed; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking

One pot chicken rice is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken and aromatic rice in a single pot for easy cooking and cleanup.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-01T21:42:29.987Z

This one pot chicken rice recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of spices and tender chicken makes for a comforting meal that the whole family will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        All-in-one dish for easy cleanup
Flavorful, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked rice
Quick and simple preparation, perfect for busy nights

      

A Delicious Meal in One Pot

One pot chicken rice is not just a meal; it's a complete dining experience. With the chicken thighs tenderly simmered in flavorful broth and spices, each bite is infused with rich, savory goodness. The jasmine rice absorbs all the delicious flavors, creating a harmonious blend that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can prepare a wholesome dinner for the family without having to wash multiple pots and pans afterward. The one-pot method ensures that every ingredient is cooked to perfection, making it a stress-free option for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a balanced meal packed with protein and carbohydrates.

Versatile and Customizable

One pot chicken rice is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans for added nutrition. You can even swap out chicken thighs for chicken breasts or use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. This adaptability makes it a fantastic recipe that can be tailored to suit any dietary requirement or taste.

Adding herbs and spices can also elevate this dish. Consider incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or spice it up with a touch of cayenne for a bit of heat. The options are endless, and each modification can create a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you enjoy meal prepping, this one pot chicken rice is an excellent choice. It stores well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Making a larger batch not only saves time but also ensures you have delicious, homemade meals ready to go. Just portion it out into containers and you're set for the week ahead.

To keep the rice from becoming mushy during storage, make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to containers. You can also freeze portions for longer storage, making it a convenient option for unexpected busy days or last-minute dinner plans.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious one pot chicken rice:

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 cups jasmine rice, rinsed
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your one pot chicken rice:

Sear the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika, then add them to the pot. Sear for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until the onions are translucent.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rinsed jasmine rice, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil.

Combine Chicken and Simmer

Return the seared chicken thighs to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious one pot chicken rice!

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Rice

To achieve perfectly cooked rice, it’s essential to rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly before adding it to the pot. This process removes excess starch, which can make the rice gummy. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear, ensuring each grain stays fluffy and separate during cooking.

Another crucial tip is to maintain the right liquid-to-rice ratio. For jasmine rice, a standard ratio is 1:2, meaning for every cup of rice, you should use two cups of liquid. This will ensure that the rice absorbs enough flavor while cooking without becoming overly soggy.

Serving Suggestions

This one pot chicken rice dish is delightful on its own, but you can enhance the meal with various sides. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can add a nice crunch and balance to the meal. Consider serving it with a tangy vinaigrette or a light yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast.

For those looking to add a bit of zest, a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice over the dish before serving can brighten up the flavors. Additionally, pair it with a glass of chilled white wine or lemonade for a complete dining experience.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftovers, let the chicken rice cool to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

When it's time to reheat, you can do so in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out. Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Enjoy your delicious meal again without the fuss!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this dish with boneless chicken?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This one pot chicken rice can be served with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.