Easy One Pot Chicken Rice Dinner

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty meal, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in this Easy One Pot Chicken Rice Dinner. I remember the nights when I would come home tired, craving something simple yet satisfying. This dish has always been my go-to; it’s a delightful blend of flavors that warms both the stomach and the heart. One pot means less cleanup, and who doesn’t love that? As the aroma fills the kitchen, you can picture yourself gathered around the table with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter. This is more than just a dinner; it’s a way to connect, unwind, and enjoy the comforting embrace of home-cooked food. With every bite of tender chicken and flavorful rice, you’ll understand why this dish has earned a special spot in my recipe collection.

What’s In This Easy One Pot Chicken Rice Dinner

The ingredients in this Easy One Pot Chicken Rice Dinner are not only straightforward but also work together beautifully. Each element plays a key role, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The combination of basmati rice and chicken makes for a filling base, while the addition of soy sauce and lemon juice brings a zesty kick that elevates the dish to new heights. Let’s dive into the nourishing ingredients that make this dinner an unforgettable experience.

• Basmati rice: A fragrant grain that cooks beautifully, providing a fluffy texture that absorbs flavors well.
• Water: The essential liquid that helps cook the rice to perfection.
• Soy sauce: Adds a savory depth and umami flavor that ties the dish together.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the dish with a refreshing acidity and balances the savory notes.
• Extra virgin olive oil: A healthy fat that adds richness and helps sauté the chicken.
• Chicken strips: Lean protein that cooks quickly and remains juicy.
• Baby corn: Adds a fun crunch and sweetness that complements the chicken.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors to bring the dish to life.
• Ground pepper: A seasoning that adds warmth and subtle heat.
• Cherry tomatoes: Juicy bursts of flavor that add freshness and color.
• Chives: A mild onion flavor that provides a lovely garnish.

How to Prepare Easy One Pot Chicken Rice Dinner

Preparing the Easy One Pot Chicken Rice Dinner is quite simple and doesn’t require any fancy equipment, making it perfect for busy nights. I’ve found that following these steps closely ensures that everything cooks evenly and the flavors meld beautifully. Let’s get started!

1. Begin by heating a medium cooking pot over high heat. Add the basmati rice and pour in 2 and 1/2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, watching closely as the steam rises. Once boiling, reduce the heat to its lowest setting. Cover the pot partially, allowing about a 1/2 inch opening for steam to escape. Let it simmer until the rice is fully cooked. If you can prepare the rice ahead of time, it will only enhance the flavors later.
2. While the rice cooks, take a small bowl and combine the soy sauce, lemon juice, and the remaining 1/4 cup of water. Give it a stir to mix well, adjusting the taste if necessary. This mixture is your flavor booster, so feel free to tweak it to your liking.
3. Next, heat a large saucepan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken strips and sauté them until they are cooked through, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. The chicken will turn golden brown, indicating it’s ready for the next step.
4. Pour the soy-lemon mixture into the pan with the cooked chicken. Add the baby corn and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the corn to soften.
5. After the chicken and corn have simmered, separate them into three bowls: one for sauce, one for corn, and one for chicken. Return the same saucepan to the heat and pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
6. When the oil is hot, add the chicken back into the pan. Cook until the chicken is golden brown, seasoning it with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and pepper for added flavor. Once done, transfer the chicken back to the bowl.
7. In the same saucepan, pour in the soy-lemon mixture once more, letting it cook for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This step enhances the flavors further, creating a rich sauce.
8. Now it’s time to add the cooked rice into the saucepan. Mix it well with the sauce until the rice takes on a nice brown hue from the mixture. Make sure all the grains are well-coated and flavorful.
9. Push the rice to one side of the saucepan. Place the chicken on the opposite side, arranging the baby corn on top. Turn off the heat, letting the residual warmth keep everything nice.
10. Finally, place the cherry tomatoes in one corner of the saucepan, sprinkle them with the remaining salt, and finish with a sprinkle of chives for freshness.

Ways to Customize

The beauty of the Easy One Pot Chicken Rice Dinner is its versatility. There are countless ways to add your personal touch. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to two months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• Adding spices: Experiment with different spices like ginger or garlic powder for an extra depth of flavor.
• Grains: Swap out the basmati rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
• Protein variations: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein source.
• Vegetable additions: Incorporate bell peppers, peas, or any seasonal vegetables that you love.

Pairing Suggestions for Easy One Pot Chicken Rice Dinner

Serving the Easy One Pot Chicken Rice Dinner can be as creative as the dish itself. Here are some fantastic suggestions to complement your meal:

• Steamed vegetables: Serve with a mix of steamed broccoli and carrots to add a nutritious touch and vibrant color to your plate.
• Fresh salad: A light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast to the warm rice and chicken.
• Rice alternatives: For a twist, try serving over cauliflower rice or alongside a baked sweet potato.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.
• Seasonal pairings: In the summer, consider serving with a side of grilled vegetables, while in the winter, a warm soup could make a cozy starter.
• Storage tips: If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It’s great for lunch the next day!
• Flavor bursts: Drizzle some sriracha or hot sauce over the dish to spice things up.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Easy One Pot Chicken Rice Dinner is truly special for its combination of simplicity and flavor. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the hassle. I encourage you to try it and make it your own – whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it to suit your taste. Enjoy the comforting warmth of a home-cooked meal that brings everyone together!

Easy One Pot Chicken Rice Dinner

The ultimate comfort food, the Easy One Pot Chicken Rice Dinner is a savory delight that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and zesty flavors. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish is easy to prepare and will satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight and enjoy a warm meal that brings everyone to the table!

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 cups Basmati rice dry or brown rice
• 2 3/4 cups Water
• 1/4 cup Soy sauce lite (low-sodium) or tamari
• 1/2 cup Lemon juice from 1 lemon
• 5 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 pound Chicken strips white meat
• 8 pieces Baby corn or 1/2 cup regular corn kernels
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Ground pepper
• 1 cup Cherry tomatoes halved
• 2 tablespoons Chives finely chopped

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Frying pan

Method

 

1. Over high heat, in a medium cooking pot, mix the basmati rice and 2-1/2 cups of water then let it boil. When it boils, put down the heat to the lowest, cover partially (leave about a 1/2 inch of opening) and simmer until the rice is cooked through. Note: if you can cook the rice hours ahead, it's better.
2. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, lemon juice, and the remaining 1/4 cup of water. Adjust the taste if needed then set aside.
3. Over medium heat, in a large saucepan with 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, sauté the chicken strips until cooked through.
4. Pour the soy-lemon mixture and add the baby corn then simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Separate the sauce, the corn, and the chicken in three bowls.
6. Still in the same saucepan, pour the 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the chicken until golden brown. Season with the 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper.
7. Again, take them away from the saucepan and put them in a bowl.
8. In the same saucepan, pour the remaining extra virgin olive oil, then add the soy-lemon mixture and cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
9. Add the rice and mix well until the rice becomes brown.
10. Move the rice to one side of the saucepan. Put the chicken to the other side of the saucepan and the baby corn on top. Turn off the heat.
11. Put the cherry tomatoes in one corner of the saucepan. Sprinkle with the remaining salt. Sprinkle the chives.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this dish for up to two months.
• Tip 3: Pair with a garden salad for a refreshing side.
• Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with different spices.
• Tip 5: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation.

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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.