If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as your favorite pair of sweatpants, look no further than one pan chicken and rice. Imagine tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a medley of colorful veggies all coming together in a harmony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The aroma wafting from your kitchen will have everyone wondering what delicious magic is happening inside.

This dish shines at family dinners, cozy weekends, or even when you just need a quick meal in your busy life. Picture this: you walk into the kitchen after a long day, and all you want is something hearty yet effortless. Well, one pan chicken and rice has got your back. It’s like a warm hug on your plate, promising a delightful flavor experience that will leave you wanting seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This one pan chicken and rice is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors meld beautifully in one dish for minimal cleanup
- Visually appealing with vibrant veggies, it’s sure to impress at any gathering
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your pantry staples!
There was an unforgettable evening when I whipped up this dish for my friends. They raved about it so much that I was practically begging them to stop complimenting me!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts; they cook evenly without drying out.
Long Grain Rice: Choose long grain for fluffy texture; avoid instant rice which can become mushy.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness; adds rich flavor to the rice.
Bell Peppers: Brighten up the dish with colorful bell peppers; they add sweetness and crunch.
Onion: A medium onion enhances flavor; sauté until translucent for best results.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an aromatic punch; use minced or crushed for maximum flavor.
Spices (Paprika & Thyme): Smoked paprika gives depth while thyme adds herbal notes; sprinkle generously.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps cook the chicken and adds richness.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce balances flavors perfectly without overpowering the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping your veggies—bell peppers and onions should be diced into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic finely so it releases all its flavor.
Heat That Pan: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle a bit of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown on both sides. This should take about 5 minutes per side.
Add Those Aromatics: Toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic into the skillet with the chicken. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes should do it.
Stir in Rice & Broth: Sprinkle in the long grain rice evenly over the chicken mixture then pour in the chicken broth along with soy sauce. Stir gently to combine everything while keeping those beautiful ingredients intact.
The Fun Part – Simmer Away: Bring everything to a gentle boil then cover with a lid. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is fluffy. Resist the urge to peek too often!
Add Veggies Last: After 15 minutes of simmering, sprinkle diced bell peppers on top without stirring them in yet. Cover again for another 5-7 minutes—this steams them perfectly while keeping their color vibrant.
And there you have it! If you follow these steps closely, you’re bound to impress anyone who takes a bite of this dish—and probably yourself too! One pan chicken and rice is not just food; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort that’s perfect for any occasion!
You Must Know
- This one pan chicken and rice recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights
- It’s simple, satisfying, and cleanup is a breeze
- The aroma of garlic and herbs fills your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy restaurant at home
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then add rice and broth to simmer. This sequence ensures the chicken stays juicy while infusing flavor into the rice.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in vegetables like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Experimenting with spices can create a new flavor profile each time you cook!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep everything moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F
- Letting it rest before slicing keeps it juicy
- Don’t skip seasoning the rice; it absorbs flavors beautifully as it cooks!
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends devoured every bite and asked for seconds. Their compliments made me feel like a culinary rock star!
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white in one pan chicken and rice?
Yes, just remember that brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking time.
How do I make my one pan chicken and rice spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for an extra kick.
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best; they stay juicy and flavorful while cooking.
One Pan Chicken and Rice
One Pan Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort dish, combining succulent chicken breasts, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies in a single skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish not only delivers on flavor but also ensures minimal cleanup. With a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, it’s like a warm hug on your plate. This easy-to-make recipe allows for endless customization based on your pantry staples—making it both satisfying and versatile!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
Instructions
- Prep the ingredients: Wash and chop bell peppers and onion; mince garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts; cook until golden brown (about 5 minutes per side).
- Add chopped onions and garlic to the skillet; sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in rice evenly over chicken, then pour in chicken broth and soy sauce; combine gently.
- Bring to a boil then cover and reduce heat; simmer for about 20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- After 15 minutes, sprinkle diced bell peppers on top without stirring; cover for an additional 5-7 minutes until tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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