One-Pot Chicken & Rice

A classic comfort food that’s perfect for any night of the week: One-Pot Chicken & Rice.

This dish is all about simplicity and flavor, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables in a single pot.

It’s a family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and even easier to clean up.

How to Make It

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is all about layering flavors and letting them simmer together to create a harmonious blend. Here’s a quick overview to get you started:

First, gather your ingredients. You’ll need chicken breasts or thighs, long-grain white rice, onions, garlic, and your choice of vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers. Don’t forget the chicken broth to bring it all together.

Next, heat some oil in a large pot and sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the chicken and cook until it’s browned. Then, stir in the rice, vegetables, and chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.

Finally, fluff the rice with a fork and stir everything together. Garnish with some fresh herbs like parsley and serve it hot. This dish is perfect on its own or with a side of steamed vegetables.

Make Ahead Method

If you’re planning to serve this One-Pot Chicken & Rice for a special occasion or just want to have some ready for the week, you can definitely make it ahead of time. Here’s how:

Prepare the dish as instructed and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth if needed to adjust the consistency. You can also freeze portions of the dish for up to a month. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pro Tips

Making the perfect One-Pot Chicken & Rice involves a few key tips:

• Use the Right Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe. You can use brown or wild rice, but the cooking times will vary.
• Adjust the Liquid: The amount of liquid needed can vary depending on the type of rice and the size of your pot. Start with the recommended amount and add more if needed.
• Add Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition and color of this one-pot meal by tossing in extra vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning. Add plenty of salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs to enhance the flavor.

Storage

Storing your One-Pot Chicken & Rice properly will help it stay fresh for longer:

• Refrigerator: If you plan to eat the dish within a few days, store it in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, keep the dish in the freezer. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.

Tools For This Recipe

Having the right tools can make creating this One-Pot Chicken & Rice a breeze:

• Large Pot: You’ll need a large pot for cooking the dish.
• Wooden Spoon: A wooden spoon is great for stirring and fluffing the rice.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key in cooking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you get the right amounts.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

A: Absolutely! While long-grain white rice is traditional, you can use brown or wild rice as well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly

Q: How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

A: To prevent the rice from becoming mushy, avoid overcooking it. Keep an eye on the pot and adjust the heat as needed

Q: Can I make this recipe without chicken?

A: Sure thing! You can omit the chicken or substitute it with tofu, tempeh, or extra vegetables for a vegetarian version

Q: What can I serve with this One-Pot Chicken & Rice?

A: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, a side salad, or even some crusty bread. You can also serve it with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.

Enjoy your homemade One-Pot Chicken & Rice!