A comforting one-pot chicken and rice recipe featuring tender chicken thighs simmered with aromatic spices, vegetables, and long-grain rice for a hearty and easy meal.
Author:Audrey
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:35 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Lactose
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Pantry Items
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side, until golden. Remove chicken and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the long-grain rice, chicken broth, frozen peas and carrots, paprika, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer the Dish: Return the browned chicken thighs to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the chicken is tender.
Finish and Serve: Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
If you prefer a bit more texture in the vegetables, add peas and carrots halfway through simmering instead of at the beginning.
Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes with the paprika.
Let the pot sit covered off the heat for 5 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld.