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One-Pot Chicken & Rice

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This One-Pot Chicken & Rice recipe is a comforting and easy dinner made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory seasonings all cooked together in one pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty family-friendly meal delivers rich homemade flavor with minimal cleanup and simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

  • pounds chicken thighs or chicken breasts
  • 1½ cups long-grain white rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
  • Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
  • Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same pot, sauté chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
  • Stir in the rice and cook for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast it.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and stir well.
  • Return the chicken to the pot, placing it on top of the rice mixture.
  • Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
  • Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
  • Cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
  • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Long-grain white rice works best for fluffy texture.Avoid lifting the lid too often while cooking to keep the steam trapped.Add peas or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra vegetables.A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavors beautifully.Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).