If you are looking for a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe is where your search ends. It brings together tender, juicy chicken and fluffy, perfectly cooked rice, all mingling with vibrant vegetables in a single pot—making dinner time both effortless and delicious. This dish is a family-friendly classic that combines simplicity and heartiness in the best possible way, ensuring everyone sits down happy and satisfied without a mountain of dishes to wash afterward.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, creating a balanced dish that’s both comforting and nourishing. Get ready to gather these simple staples from your kitchen or local market.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed: The star protein that becomes tender and juicy as it simmers with the rice.
- 1 cup white rice: Provides the perfect fluffy base to soak up all the yummy flavors.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and richness, cooking the rice to perfection.
- 1 cup mixed vegetables: A colorful, nutritious touch that keeps each bite fresh and lively.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps to brown the chicken beautifully and adds a subtle fruity richness.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that tie all the flavors together.
How to Make One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken pieces in a single layer and let them brown without crowding the pot. This caramelization adds incredible flavor that will carry through the entire dish. Once golden on all sides, you’re ready to move forward.
Step 2: Add Rice and Chicken Broth
Next, pour in the uncooked white rice, stirring gently to coat every grain with the flavorful oil and juices from the chicken. Then add the chicken broth, which will serve as the cooking liquid for your rice. The broth infuses the dish with a savory depth that plain water simply can’t provide.
Step 3: Stir in Vegetables and Season
Now toss in your mixed vegetables along with salt and pepper. This is where you can get creative—swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand to customize the dish to your taste and what’s in season. Give everything a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Simmer Until Rice is Perfectly Done
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Resist the urge to lift the lid frequently; patience here means fluffy rice and deeply melded flavors.
How to Serve One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped herbs breathes life and brightness into this dish, adding wonderful pops of green that invite you to dig in. You might also consider a little squeeze of lemon for a gentle zing that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
This One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe shines on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider a crisp side salad or some buttered steamed green beans. A crusty baguette or warm naan bread also pairs beautifully, perfect for scooping up any lingering sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a lovely dinner presentation, serve this dish directly from the pot at the table, letting everyone help themselves. Alternatively, plate the rice first and nestle the chicken on top, garnishing with fresh herbs for a restaurant-style touch that feels special but effortless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even better the next day. Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and safety.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a convenient option to prepare ahead. Cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. It should keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the rice’s texture and prevent dryness. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming and a fresh-out-of-the-pot feel.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well but requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust your cooking time accordingly, usually around 40-45 minutes simmering, to get the perfect tender texture.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to customize with whatever veggies you love or have on hand—peas, carrots, bell peppers, spinach, or corn all make great additions and bring their own nutrients and colors to the dish.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free since it uses olive oil and chicken broth. Just be sure to check your broth ingredients if you’re keeping it strictly dairy-free.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe is ideal for meal prep because it stores well and maintains its flavors. Portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Chicken thighs are a wonderful substitute if you prefer dark meat; they remain juicy and add extra richness. Adjust the browning time as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about the simplicity and heartiness of this One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe. It’s a true kitchen hero that delivers comfort, wholesome ingredients, and minimal cleanup all in one pot—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become one of your go-to dinners for good.
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One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A simple and delicious one-pot chicken and rice recipe featuring tender, juicy chicken, fluffy white rice, and vibrant mixed vegetables. This family-friendly meal is quick to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and offers comforting flavors perfect for a weekday dinner.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
Grains
- 1 cup white rice
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth
Vegetables
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, corn)
Oils & Seasonings
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and cook until it is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, ensuring it is not fully cooked yet.
- Add rice and broth: Stir in the white rice, allowing it to toast slightly with the chicken and oil. Then pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Incorporate vegetables and season: Add the mixed vegetables to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the veggies and seasoning throughout the mixture.
- Simmer covered: Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce heat to low. Let everything simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and has absorbed all the broth, and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley for color before serving warm.
Notes
- Swap the mixed vegetables based on availability or preference, such as using bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans.
- Add freshly chopped parsley or cilantro to the finished dish for added color and fresh flavor.
- Ensure the pot is tightly covered to prevent steam from escaping, which helps cook the rice evenly.
- Use low sodium chicken broth to better control salt levels in the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
