Name: One Pot Chicken and Rice - Easy & Flavorful
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 cup frozen peas; Juice of 1/2 lemon; Fresh parsley for garnish

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Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Chicken and Rice
What Makes This Recipe So Flavorful?
The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Rice
Choosing the Best Chicken for This Dish
How to Add Your Own Twist to This Classic Recipe
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Key Takeaways

Key Takeaways

This One-Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a simple, flavorful, and wholesome meal made in under 40 minutes. Perfect for busy nights, it delivers juicy, well-seasoned chicken combined with tender, fluffy rice infused with savory spices. It’s a budget-friendly, satisfying dish that is easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Chicken and Rice

If you’re looking for an easy and delicious chicken dish, this recipe is a must-try! Cooking everything in a single pot not only enhances the flavors but also means less cleanup. The combination of tender, well-seasoned chicken and perfectly cooked rice makes this dish a family favorite. Whether you’re new to cooking or a kitchen pro, you’ll appreciate how effortlessly this meal comes together.

What Makes This Recipe So Flavorful?

The secret lies in the blend of seasonings and the cooking technique. The chicken is first seared to lock in juices, then slowly simmered with the rice, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs adds an extra depth of flavor. The addition of oregano, thyme, and a squeeze of fresh lemon brings a bright and savory balance to the dish.

The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Rice

Achieving light, fluffy rice in a one-pot meal can be tricky, but the key is to use the right ratio of liquid to rice. Long-grain white rice is ideal for this dish because it absorbs flavors beautifully while maintaining a firm texture. Once the broth is added, it’s essential to let the rice simmer gently without stirring, allowing it to cook evenly.

Choosing the Best Chicken for This Dish

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are the best choice for this recipe because they remain juicy and tender throughout the cooking process. However, you can also use boneless thighs or chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Just be mindful that boneless chicken may cook faster, so adjust the timing accordingly.

How to Add Your Own Twist to This Classic Recipe

One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to customize! Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition and color. Want a bit of heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will do the trick. You can also swap out the seasonings to give it an international twist—think cumin and coriander for a Middle Eastern flair or turmeric and ginger for a warm, earthy flavor.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

While this One-Pot Chicken and Rice is a complete meal on its own, you can pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for added freshness. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of garlic aioli can add an extra layer of richness. For a refreshing contrast, serve it with a cucumber and tomato salad on the side.

For more delicious one-pot meals, visit Lila Cooks, where you’ll find easy, flavorful recipes for every occasion!