One Pot Chicken And Rice With Garlic

Name: One Pot Chicken And Rice With Garlic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Easy Quick Meals Collection

I absolutely love preparing One Pot Chicken And Rice With Garlic because it's both comforting and satisfying. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—everything cooks together in one pot, infusing the rice with incredible flavor from the garlic and chicken. It's a dish I turn to when I want a hearty meal without the fuss of multiple pots and pans to clean. Plus, it’s packed with protein and whole grains, making it a nutritious choice for any day of the week.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:49:35.785Z

When I first tried making One Pot Chicken And Rice With Garlic, I was amazed by how such a simple recipe could yield such rich flavors. The garlic caramelizes beautifully while the chicken cooks, creating a savory base that permeates the rice. I learned that searing the chicken before adding the rice is crucial for developing that extra layer of flavor, which makes all the difference in each bite.

As I experimented more, I realized that adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving brightens up the dish and cuts through the richness of the chicken. It’s a small step but it elevates the entire meal. Now, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One pot means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
The garlic infuses the chicken and rice with an irresistible depth of flavor.
Perfectly cooked rice that soaks up all the delicious juices.

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this One Pot Chicken And Rice With Garlic plays a vital role in achieving the dish's signature flavor profile. The chicken thighs are not only juicy but also have a richer flavor compared to chicken breasts, making them ideal for this recipe. The high fat content helps keep the chicken moist during cooking, ensuring it won’t dry out when paired with the rice. Using long-grain rice, like Jasmine or Basmati, allows for fluffy grains that separate easily while absorbing the delicious broth.

Garlic is the hero ingredient here; it adds a savory note that elevates the dish. When sautéed with onion, it releases natural sugars, helping to create a lovely caramelization that enhances the overall depth of flavor. Both the onion and garlic should be cooked until fragrant but not browned, as this will ensure they remain sweet and aromatic without becoming bitter.

Cooking Technique Tips

Searing the chicken properly is crucial for flavor development. Make sure the pot is hot enough before adding the chicken—if it sizzles without sticking, you're ready to go. Use medium-high heat to achieve a rich, golden-brown crust without cooking it through. If your chicken releases moisture too quickly, it may not sear well, so manage the heat accordingly; you can always adjust it down slightly if necessary.

When cooking the rice, pay close attention to the simmering process. Bringing the chicken broth to a boil before lowering the heat is essential in allowing the rice to cook evenly. Once covered, resist the urge to lift the lid too soon; this will let steam escape, impacting the rice's cooking dynamics. After the cooking time, give it another few minutes off the heat to steam and firm up, ensuring perfectly textured rice.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this scrumptious dish:

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have everything measured out and ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious One Pot Chicken And Rice With Garlic:

Sear the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika, then add them to the pot. Sear for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the rice, followed by the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and return the chicken to the pot. Cover and cook for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Garnish and Serve

Once done, fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!

Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding your favorite vegetables to the pot alongside the rice, such as peas or bell peppers.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pot Chicken And Rice makes for a delightful weeknight meal but can also be dressed up for company. Consider pairing it with a light, fresh salad drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A sprinkle of fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving can heighten the flavors and add brightness.

For a heartier option, serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a simple sauté of seasonal greens, such as spinach or kale, to complement the dish's savory profile. You can also elevate the meal with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of pesto on each plate for added creaminess and flavor contrast.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken with garlic, salt, and spices up to 24 hours in advance to enhance the flavor. Just seal it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll be ready to cook when you are. Additionally, prepare the rice ahead of time and store it separately, then combine just before serving for optimal texture.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If you want to freeze portions, let the dish cool completely, then pack it tightly into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to label them with the date for reference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is it possible to make this dish with other protein?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even shrimp; just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would complement this one-pot meal perfectly.