Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice to soothe the soul after a long day. I remember the first time I made this dish; I had just moved into my new apartment, and the kitchen was still a jumble of boxes. I was tired, hungry, and wanted something simple yet comforting. This recipe turned out to be my saving grace. In just one pot, I could create a satisfying meal that filled my home with delicious aromas. With tender chunks of chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of spices, it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when you’re hosting friends and family. Plus, there’s something so comforting about serving a one-pot meal; it feels like a cozy hug on a plate.

Ingredients Required for Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice

Each ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in bringing the flavors to life. The aromatic base of onions and garlic sets the stage, while the chicken and rice are the stars of the show. Together, they create a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and satisfying.

• 2 chicken breasts: The main protein of the dish, providing richness and heartiness.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing, adding flavor and moisture.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: To enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A touch of heat and depth.
• ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds aromatic richness.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Contributes a subtle sweetness and beautiful color.
• 3 garlic cloves: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic flavor.
• ½ medium yellow onion: Provides sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 3 carrots: Adds sweetness and texture.
• 1 cup long-grain white rice: The backbone of the dish, absorbing all the flavors.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and savory flavor.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce.
• ¾ cup whole milk or half and half: Adds creaminess to the dish.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a cheesy finish that elevates the flavor.
• parsley for garnish: Adds freshness and color when serving.

The Process for Making Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice

Making this Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice is an enjoyable process that allows you to create a delicious meal with minimal fuss. Here’s how you can do it.

1. Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-size pieces. This ensures even cooking and allows the chicken to soak in all the flavors. Set aside the pieces once done.
2. Next, peel the carrots. Cut them in half lengthwise, then halve each piece again lengthwise before dicing. This method provides even sizes for better cooking.
3. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. This aromatic base will enhance the dish’s flavor significantly.
4. Heat the olive oil in a deep pan or a Dutch oven over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough that it shimmers but doesn’t smoke.
5. Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Season them with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
6. In the same pan, add the onion, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often. You want the onion to become translucent and the carrots to soften slightly.
7. Add the paprika and a splash of the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom. This adds a depth of flavor to your dish.
8. Once the bottom is deglazed, add the remaining chicken broth and rice. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and bring it to a simmer.
9. After about 15 minutes, when the rice is cooked, add the chicken back into the pot. It’s essential to stir it in gently to avoid breaking the rice.
10. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with whole milk or half and half. Stir this mixture into the pot, which will thicken the sauce.
11. Remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Stir gently to allow the cheese to melt and integrate into the dish.
12. To serve, garnish with chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of your homemade Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice.

Helpful Notes about Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice

When making Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice, you’ll want to keep a few tips in mind to ensure the best results. Here are some helpful notes:

• Storage: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently.
• Freezing: You can freeze portions for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat.
• Variations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices. Zucchini or bell peppers make great additions.
• Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch at the beginning of the week for quick meals.
• Serve with: A side salad or crusty bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Side Dish Ideas for Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice

When it comes to serving Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice, there are plenty of delicious side options that can enhance your meal experience:

• Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the flavors of the creamy rice.
• Steamed Broccoli: Adding a side of steamed broccoli introduces a fresh, vibrant element to your plate.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and variety, making your meal more interesting.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can provide a light contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and rice.
• Occasions: This dish is also versatile enough for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice embodies the essence of comfort food, combining simplicity with heartiness in every bite. This dish is not only a favorite for its deliciousness, but it also brings people together, making mealtime a joy. I encourage you to give it a try—you won’t be disappointed! It’s an easy, satisfying meal that will surely become a go-to in your recipe collection.

Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice

The ultimate comfort food, Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory spices. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for busy evenings and guarantees satisfaction with every bite. Make it tonight for a cozy meal the whole family will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pieces chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 3 cloves garlic cloves
• ½ medium yellow onion
• 3 pieces carrots
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• ¾ cup whole milk or half and half
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Grater
• Saucepan
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Peeler
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-size pieces. This ensures even cooking and allows the chicken to soak in all the flavors. Set aside the pieces once done.
2. Next, peel the carrots. Cut them in half lengthwise, then halve each piece again lengthwise before dicing. This method provides even sizes for better cooking.
3. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. This aromatic base will enhance the dish's flavor significantly.
4. Heat the olive oil in a deep pan or a Dutch oven over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough that it shimmers but doesn’t smoke.
5. Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Season them with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
6. In the same pan, add the onion, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often. You want the onion to become translucent and the carrots to soften slightly.
7. Add the paprika and a splash of the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom. This adds a depth of flavor to your dish.
8. Once the bottom is deglazed, add the remaining chicken broth and rice. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and bring it to a simmer.
9. After about 15 minutes, when the rice is cooked, add the chicken back into the pot. It’s essential to stir it in gently to avoid breaking the rice.
10. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with whole milk or half and half. Stir this mixture into the pot, which will thicken the sauce.
11. Remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Stir gently to allow the cheese to melt and integrate into the dish.
12. To serve, garnish with chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of your homemade Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice.

Notes

• Storage: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently.
• Freezing: You can freeze portions for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat.
• Variations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices. Zucchini or bell peppers make great additions.
• Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch at the beginning of the week for quick meals.
• Serve with: A side salad or crusty bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.