One Pot Chicken and Rice

This One Pot Chicken and Rice dish is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. It’s a hearty meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and seasoned vegetables all cooked together in one pot. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish promises to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. The unique combination of soup-like broth and creamy rice makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Base
• For Garnish
• How to Make One Pot Chicken and Rice
• Step 1: Cook the Carrots
• Step 2: Toast the Rice
• Step 3: Add Stock and Simmer
• Step 4: Cook the Rice
• Step 5: Add the Chicken
• Step 6: Finish the Dish
• Step 7: Serve Warm
• How to Serve One Pot Chicken and Rice
• Fresh Herbs
• Citrus Zest
• Grated Cheese
• Crusty Bread
• How to Perfect One Pot Chicken and Rice
• Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chicken and Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing One Pot Chicken and Rice
• Reheating One Pot Chicken and Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in One Pot Chicken and Rice?
• How do I customize my One Pot Chicken and Rice?
• What should I serve with One Pot Chicken and Rice?
• Is One Pot Chicken and Rice gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze!
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite is packed with the rich taste of seasoned chicken and aromatic rice.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any meal, it can be served as a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this satisfying dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking the chicken and rice together without spilling, allowing for even cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups: Ensure precise measurements for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 4–6 tablespoons butter or vegan butter, divided
• 1 heaping cup shredded or chopped carrots
• Homemade seasoned salt and pepper (see notes)
• 2 scant cups long-grain white rice (Lundberg White Jasmine Rice recommended)
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
• 1 teaspoon dried minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley flakes
• 8 cups chicken stock
• 2 chicken breasts (~1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make One Pot Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Cook the Carrots

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the shredded carrots along with homemade seasoned salt and pepper. Cover with a lid and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the carrots are tender.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Add the long-grain white rice, dried minced onion, and dried minced garlic to the pot. Stir well to coat the rice with butter. Sauté for about 1 minute before adding in the dried parsley flakes.

Step 3: Add Stock and Simmer

Pour in 8 cups of chicken stock while turning up the heat to high. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking as it comes to a boil.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes while continuing to stir occasionally.

Step 5: Add the Chicken

Season bite-sized pieces of chicken with seasoned salt and pepper. Add them to the pot and slightly increase heat if needed to get back to a simmer. Once simmering again, reduce heat back to medium-low and cook for an additional 7-10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and rice is al dente.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

Stir in remaining butter (2-4 tablespoons depending on preference). Taste test and adjust seasoning if necessary with more seasoned salt or pepper. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes to thicken before serving.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Scoop into bowls and enjoy this delightful One Pot Chicken and Rice warm!

How to Serve One Pot Chicken and Rice

This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. You can easily elevate your presentation and flavor by serving it with various accompaniments that complement its rich taste.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Cilantro – Adds a vibrant flavor that pairs well with the chicken and rice.

Citrus Zest

• Lemon wedges – Serve alongside to add a zesty kick when squeezed over each bowl.
• Lime slices – A great alternative for a more tropical twist.

Grated Cheese

• Parmesan cheese – Grate some on top just before serving for added richness.
• Cheddar cheese – Melted cheddar adds a creamy texture and flavor contrast.

Crusty Bread

• Garlic bread – Serve warm to soak up the delicious broth.
• French baguette – Perfect for dipping into the flavorful mix.

How to Perfect One Pot Chicken and Rice

To achieve the best results with your One Pot Chicken and Rice, follow these helpful tips.

• Use quality ingredients – Start with high-quality rice and fresh chicken for the best flavor.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste as you go to ensure the right balance of flavors.
• Control heat carefully – Keep an eye on the simmering; too high can burn the rice.
• Let it rest – Allowing the dish to sit after cooking helps it thicken nicely.
• Cut chicken small – Small pieces cook evenly and blend better with rice.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for extra depth.

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Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chicken and Rice

Pair this hearty one-pot meal with delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors. Each option brings something unique to your table.

1. Steamed Broccoli – A simple, healthy side that adds color and nutrients.
2. Roasted Asparagus – Drizzle with olive oil and roast until tender for a flavorful addition.
3. Garden Salad – A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers balances the richness of the dish.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements the savory elements of chicken and rice beautifully.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy slaw adds crunch and brightness, contrasting nicely with the warm dish.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes make a comforting side that pairs wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One Pot Chicken and Rice can be simple, but there are a few mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using low-quality rice: Cheap or quick-cooking rice can lead to a mushy texture. Choose high-quality long-grain rice like Lundberg California White Jasmine Rice for the best results.
• Not cutting chicken properly: Large chunks of chicken may not cook evenly with the rice. Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Skipping seasoning: Neglecting to season your ingredients can result in bland flavors. Use homemade seasoned salt and pepper generously throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking the rice: Cooking the rice for too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on your simmering time and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Ignoring resting time: Serving immediately after cooking may lead to a soupier consistency. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving to thicken it up.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight glass containers.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Pot Chicken and Rice

• Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating One Pot Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on high for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of stock if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in One Pot Chicken and Rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the liquid accordingly as brown rice typically absorbs more moisture.

How do I customize my One Pot Chicken and Rice?

Feel free to add vegetables such as peas or bell peppers, or substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for different flavor profiles.

What should I serve with One Pot Chicken and Rice?

This dish is filling on its own, but you could pair it with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for added nutrition.

Is One Pot Chicken and Rice gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is gluten-free when using gluten-free chicken stock and ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chicken and Rice offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for any dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this satisfying dish a try, and enjoy the ease of one-pot cooking!

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