Introduction

One-pot chicken and rice is the ultimate family dinner—comforting, wholesome, and effortlessly simple. For busy home bakers and cooks, this dish is a lifesaver. It comes together in a single pan, minimizes cleanup, and delivers rich, satisfying flavor. At Best Bread Machine, we value meals that blend tradition, nourishment, and ease. This classic recipe fits our philosophy perfectly.

Combining juicy, seasoned chicken with fluffy rice and aromatic vegetables, this meal is a balanced plate on its own. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping weekday lunches, or sharing a cozy dinner with loved ones, this one-pot wonder brings joy and simplicity to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Everything cooks in one pot
Minimal prep and cleanup
Customizable with seasonal veggies and spices
Kid-friendly and nourishing
Perfect for leftovers or meal prep

The beauty of one-pot cooking is that flavors mingle and deepen as they simmer. Plus, this dish adapts beautifully to what you have in the pantry or fridge.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Rice and Vegetables:

1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long grain white rice (or jasmine)
2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 medium carrot, diced
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish

Equipment Needed

Large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven with lid
Wooden spoon or spatula
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and sear for 5–7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

4. Add Rice and Vegetables

Stir in the uncooked rice, carrots, and dried herbs. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to coat the rice in the oil and aromatics.

5. Pour in the Broth

Add chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan. Bring to a simmer.

6. Add Chicken and Cook

Return the seared chicken to the pot, skin-side up. Cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 18–20 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.

7. Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve hot.

Tips for Success

Use bone-in chicken for more flavor
Don’t skip the searing step—it creates rich flavor
Let the dish rest before serving
Adjust broth amount slightly if using brown rice
Add greens like spinach at the end for extra nutrients

Serving Suggestions

Fresh side salad with vinaigrette
Sliced homemade bread or dinner rolls
Steamed broccoli or green beans
Simple cucumber-yogurt salad for a refreshing contrast

Make-Ahead and Storage

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months
Reheat: Microwave with a splash of broth or reheat gently in a skillet

This recipe tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Variations

Mediterranean: Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and oregano
Spicy: Stir in cayenne or hot sauce to the broth
Vegetarian: Swap chicken for mushrooms and use vegetable broth
Cheesy: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar just before serving
Herby: Add fresh dill, basil, or mint depending on the season

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts? Yes, though thighs stay juicier. Reduce cook time slightly for boneless breasts.

What type of rice works best? Long grain white rice or jasmine rice cook evenly. Adjust liquid if using brown rice.

Can I make this in a rice cooker or Instant Pot? Yes, follow the same steps using sauté mode and pressure cooking settings.

Can I double the recipe? Yes, just use a wider or deeper pot and adjust cook time slightly.

Can I use leftover chicken? Yes. Add it near the end of cooking just to warm it through.

Making It Kid-Friendly

Skip the herbs or lemon if your kids prefer milder flavors
Use boneless chicken pieces for easier eating
Let kids help by stirring the rice or sprinkling parsley

Serve with a dollop of yogurt or applesauce to mellow the flavors for younger palates.

A Cozy Classic for Busy Families

At Best Bread Machine, we cherish recipes that feel like home—simple, heartfelt, and nourishing. One-pot chicken and rice is one of those meals you’ll turn to over and over. It offers the comfort of tradition with the ease modern families need.

From the aroma that fills the kitchen to the quiet satisfaction of a full belly, this meal brings warmth to even the busiest days.

Conclusion

One-pot chicken and rice is more than just a recipe—it’s a solution for weeknight dinners, a dish that speaks the language of home cooking. Packed with flavor, family-friendly, and wonderfully adaptable, this dish proves that simplicity and satisfaction can go hand in hand.

Give it a try, make it your own, and enjoy every nourishing bite.