Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be substituted; just adjust cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked and remain tender.

What other vegetables work well in this dish?

Frozen mixed vegetables like corn, green beans, or bell peppers can be used for added variety and color.

Adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes alongside paprika enhances the heat without overpowering the flavors.

Sautéing the rice briefly with vegetables before adding broth helps coat the grains and reduce sticking during simmering.

It’s best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently with a splash of broth to restore moisture.

A family-friendly, budget-conscious dish featuring tender chicken and flavorful rice cooked together in one pot.

This recipe has become a staple in our home because it is simple yet packed with flavor.

Heat oil:: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Season chicken:: Season chicken thighs with salt pepper paprika and thyme.
Sear chicken:: Sear chicken on both sides until golden about 3 minutes per side Remove and set aside.
Sauté vegetables:: In the same pot sauté onion garlic and carrot until softened about 4 minutes.
Add rice:: Add rice and stir for 1 minute to coat.
Boil broth:: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Simmer chicken and rice:: Nestle chicken thighs in the rice mixture Reduce heat to low cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
Add peas:: Add peas cover and cook for another 5 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Finish:: Fluff rice adjust seasoning and serve hot.

We love gathering around this meal on busy weeknights as it brings everyone together with minimal fuss.

Large pot with lid Knife Cutting board

Contains none of the major allergens Double check broth for gluten if sensitive.

Calories 390 Total Fat 10 g Carbohydrates 45 g Protein 27 g per serving

This easy one pot chicken and rice recipe is perfect for any occasion and sure to satisfy your family.

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?: Yes, chicken breasts can be substituted; just adjust cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked and remain tender.
→ What other vegetables work well in this dish?: Frozen mixed vegetables like corn, green beans, or bell peppers can be used for added variety and color.
→ Is it possible to make this dish spicier?: Adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes alongside paprika enhances the heat without overpowering the flavors.
→ How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pot?: Sautéing the rice briefly with vegetables before adding broth helps coat the grains and reduce sticking during simmering.
→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?: It’s best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently with a splash of broth to restore moisture.