Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice

Imagine coming home after a long day, ready to unwind, but you still need to whip up dinner. What if I told you that you can make a delicious, hearty meal in just one pot? This Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is here to save the day! With tender chicken breasts, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice, this dish is not only simple to prepare but will also leave your family asking for seconds. Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans; this recipe is your new kitchen hero!

Reasons to Love Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice

There are countless reasons to adore this dish! Here are just a few:

• One-pot wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, which is always a win.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of spices and aromatics creates an irresistible taste.
• Customizable: Add vegetables or swap out the protein for endless variations.
• Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal in a hurry.
• Comfort food: This dish is the ultimate cozy meal that warms the soul.

What Goes Into Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice

To make this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for easy cooking.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: For a pop of color and flavor.
• 3 garlic cloves: Minced for that aromatic kick.
• 1 medium yellow onion: Diced for sweetness.
• 3 carrots: Chopped for crunch and sweetness.
• 1 cup long-grain white rice: The base of the dish.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth of flavor.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch: To thicken the sauce.
• ½ cup whole milk or half and half: For creaminess.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a cheesy finish.
• Parsley: Fresh for garnish.

Gear Checklist

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking everything in one place.
• Cutting board: For chopping veggies and preparing ingredients.
• Sharp knife: To make quick work of cutting the chicken and vegetables.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing everything together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure you get the proportions just right.

Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice: Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s dive into the cooking process! Follow these straightforward steps to create your Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with kosher salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Rub the spices evenly over both sides to ensure maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pot, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

To the same pot, add the chopped carrots and stir for about 2 minutes. This will help release the flavors left behind by the chicken.

Step 5: Incorporate the Rice

Add the long-grain white rice to the pot, stirring to coat it in the oil and mix with the vegetables. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.

Step 6: Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Place the chicken breasts back into the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.

Step 7: Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 8: Create Creaminess

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the whole milk or half and half until smooth. Stir this mixture into the pot along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is cooked and creamy, fluff the rice with a fork, slice the chicken, and serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Smart Substitutions

Feel free to make this dish your own with these substitutions:

• Brown rice: Use instead of white rice, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
• Vegetable broth: Swap for chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Other vegetables: Add bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Cheese alternatives: Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Mistakes That Ruin Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice

While this dish is quite forgiving, there are still a few pitfalls to avoid:

• Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to blandness.
• Skipping the toasting of the rice can result in a less flavorful dish.
• Overcooking the chicken will make it dry and tough.
• Not letting it simmer long enough can leave the rice undercooked.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

If you want to make this dish ahead of time or store leftovers, here are some handy tips:

This Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pot and warm over low heat until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes! Just increase the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through completely.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

Healthy-ish Favorites

If you love this Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice, you might enjoy these healthy-ish recipes:

• Healthy Chicken Stir-Fry
• Healthy Chicken Salad
• Easy Chickpea Curry

Bring It to the Table

This Easy One Pot Chicken and Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Gather your loved ones around the table, share laughter, and create memories as you enjoy every bite of this comforting dish. The delightful blend of flavors will leave everyone satisfied, and the best part? You only have one pot to clean! So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking and savor the goodness of this easy and flavorful dish tonight!