Nothing beats the comforting embrace of a hearty one-pot meal, especially when it involves tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice. This One Pot Chicken recipe is your go-to solution for a quick weeknight dinner that the entire family will love. Whether you’re rushing home after a long day or planning a cozy family brunch, this dish delivers on flavor and simplicity. Plus, the cleanup is just as easy as the cooking!
Why you’ll love this dish
This One Pot Chicken is not only a delicious culinary delight but also a lifesaver for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a wholesome meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It’s budget-friendly, too—using simple pantry staples means it won’t break the bank. Perfect for family gatherings or even just a cozy dinner for two, this recipe brings everyone together around the table.
"I tried this One Pot Chicken for a family dinner and everyone loved it! The flavor was fantastic and it was so easy to make. Definitely a keeper!" – Happy Home Cook
How this recipe comes together
Before jumping into the cooking process, let’s set the scene. This easy dish harmonizes the savory flavors of chicken with the aromatic notes of garlic, onion, and bell pepper. You’ll sauté these ingredients, add the rice and broth, then let it simmer together. The steps are straightforward, allowing you to whip this up even on the busiest nights.
Gather these items
To make this One Pot Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color you prefer)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup rice (long-grain works best)
- 1 cup frozen peas
You can easily swap out chicken for another protein or use brown rice instead, but be mindful of adjustments in cooking time as necessary.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear until browned on all sides.
- Remove chicken and set aside. In the same pot, toss in onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in rice, coating it well with the oil. Then, pour in chicken broth.
- Return the chicken to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20–25 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Fold in frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your One Pot Chicken experience, consider serving it with a fresh side salad or crusty bread for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish beautifully. Additionally, pairing this meal with your favorite white wine can take your dining experience to the next level.
Storage and reheating tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze portions in individual containers for quick meals later on—just be sure to consume them within three months for the best quality.
Helpful cooking tips
- For more flavor, marinate the chicken in paprika, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don’t skip browning the chicken; it adds a depth of flavor you won’t want to miss.
- Always let the pot rest covered for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to develop.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a can of diced tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair or experimenting with different spices like Italian seasoning or curry powder for an international twist. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a nutritious alternative or swap in fresh vegetables such as spinach or zucchini to change it up.
Common questions
How long does it take to make One Pot Chicken?
The total time is approximately 40-45 minutes, including prep and cooking.
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The mild flavors and comforting ingredients make it a hit with children.
Enjoy this One Pot Chicken as your new favorite family recipe that’s bound to impress both guests and busy dinner cooks alike!
One Pot Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup rice (long-grain works best)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear until browned on all sides.
- Remove chicken and set aside. In the same pot, toss in onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in rice, coating it well with the oil. Then, pour in chicken broth.
- Return the chicken to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20–25 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Fold in frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy!