1. Introduction🍗
One-Pan Chicken and Rice is the kind of meal everyone loves—simple, comforting, and made with everyday ingredients. Everything cooks together in one pan, which means less cleanup and more flavor. The chicken stays juicy, the rice absorbs all those savory juices, and the whole dish feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or when you just want a no-fuss homemade dinner.
2. Ingredients (Shopping List)
Serves: 4
Protein
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Rice & Liquids
- Long-grain white rice – 1½ cups (basmati works great)
- Chicken broth – 3 cups (low-sodium recommended)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
- Bell pepper – 1 medium, diced (any color)
Seasonings & Fats
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon
- Dried thyme or oregano – 1 teaspoon
- Bay leaf – 1
- Butter – 1 tablespoon (optional, but adds richness)
Optional Add-ins
- Frozen peas – ½ cup
- Fresh parsley or cilantro – for garnish
- Lemon wedges – for serving
3. Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances
Before you start, gather these:
- Large skillet or wide pan with a lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stove (gas or electric)
That’s it—no fancy gadgets needed.
4. Preparation Steps (Nice & Easy)
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. Drain well.
- Chop the onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic.
- Measure out all spices and broth so everything is ready to go.
This little prep makes cooking stress-free.
5. Cooking Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add onion and bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in rice, thyme (or oregano), and bay leaf. Toast for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and gently stir.
- Place chicken back on top of the rice. Add butter if using.
- Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temp).
- Sprinkle peas on top during the last 5 minutes if using.
- Turn off heat and rest covered for 5 minutes before serving.
Secret Tip:
Don’t stir the rice once the chicken is back in. Let it steam—this keeps the rice fluffy, not mushy.
6. Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro
- Serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish
- Pair with a simple green salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread
It’s a full meal on its own, but sides make it extra special.
7. Additional Tips & Variations
- Extra flavor: Add a pinch of turmeric or cumin to the rice
- Spicy version: Toss in chili flakes or a diced jalapeño
- Healthier swap: Use brown rice (add ½ cup extra broth and cook 10–15 minutes longer)
- Dairy-free: Skip the butter—still delicious
- Vegetable boost: Add carrots, zucchini, or spinach near the end
8. Nutrition Details (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
Values may vary depending on ingredients used.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q2: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly to avoid drying them out.
Q3: Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q4: How do I reheat it without drying it out?
Add a splash of broth, cover, and reheat on low heat or in the microwave.
Q5: Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap chicken for chickpeas or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
10. Wrap-Up
One-Pan Chicken and Rice is proof that simple food can still be deeply satisfying. It’s budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, and packed with cozy flavors that never go out of style. Fun fact: dishes like this exist in almost every culture—because cooking everything together just makes sense. One pan, one meal, zero stress.
If you’re craving comfort with minimal effort, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation. 🍽️✨
