Description
This comforting one-pot chicken and rice dish features tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 pounds), cut into pieces
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces skin-side down and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onion and diced carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to lift any browned bits.
- Stir in the rice, coating it with the oil and mixing with the vegetables.
- Pour in the remaining chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Place the seared chicken pieces back into the pot, skin-side up, partially submerged in the broth.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 25-30 minutes until the rice absorbs the broth and the chicken is cooked through.
- After 30 minutes, check that the rice is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If needed, cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Stir in frozen peas and let them heat through.
- Turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Use a fork to fluff the rice, mixing it with the chicken and vegetables.
- Transfer to a serving platter or serve directly from the pot. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
- Enjoy hot, with a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight with the spices.
- This dish can be customized with other vegetables like bell peppers or corn.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes