A simple and flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender chicken thighs and fluffy rice, cooked together for minimal cleanup. Perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Author:kate
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:30 min
Total Time:45 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon black pepper
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1.5 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
3 cups chicken broth
0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
0.25 teaspoon paprika
Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or chopped carrots
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Stir in the rinsed rice, chicken broth, thyme, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Return the browned chicken to the pot. If using, stir in frozen peas or carrots.
Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Notes
For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking.
Basmati rice can be used, but adjust cooking time as needed.
Ensure you rinse the rice well to remove excess starch, which helps prevent mushy rice.
This recipe is a great base; feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.