One Pot Chicken and Rice

With September right around the corner and our nights becoming busier making a dinner that is easy and delicious is a must. This one-pot chicken and rice dinner is exactly what you need.

There is no need to resort to takeout when you can give your family a full and nutritious meal in less than 30 min.

Ingredients you will need

• Chicken things – boneless and skinless (bone in will work as well)
• Olive oil – can use vegetable oil if that is what you have on hand
• Uncooked rice – rinse your rice until the water runs clear.
• Frozen mixed vegetables – use what you have on hand, I always have a bag of mixed vegetables in my freezer but if you only have peas just use peas.
• Chicken broth – or water with a chicken concentrate like a bouillon cube or powder.
• Lemon juice – use bottled lemon juice or fresh squeezed.
• Smoked paprika – regular paprika will work also but I like the smoked flavor
• Garlic powder – a staple in most kitchens
• Kosher salt – table salt will also work but use about half as much.
• Cumin – ground coriander will also work in a pinch
• Chili powder – this will not make the dich spicy but will add a rich flavor.
• Italian seasoning – use dried oregano and basil as a substitute.

Equipment Required

• Large deep frying pan with a lid
• measuring cups
• measuring spoons
• medium sized mixing bowl

How to make One Pot Chicken and Rice

• In a small bowl mix together garlic, paprika, salt, cumin, chili powder, and Italian seasoning. you can always substitute any seasoning for one that is more to your taste but does not be afraid to try anything new you may be surprised.

• In a medium-sized bowl add chicken, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and half the seasoning mix. Use your hands and rub seasoning mix all over and into every nook and cranny of the chicken thighs. I like boneless skinless chicken thighs but this recipe can be done with bone-in thighs and even skin on if that’s what you have or prefer. be sure however to adjust cooking times making sure your chicken is fully cooked.
• In a deep frying pan over medium heat add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. To a hot pan add chicken thighs and cook for 2-3 min on either side until browned. Then remove from pan and set aside. the chicken will not be fully cooked. When cooking chicken you can watch the color change from the side you will see it turn white. once the white line has reached almost the middle of your piece of chicken it is now time to flip.

• Turn the heat down slightly and add chicken broth, lemon juice, washed uncooked rice, vegetables, and remaining seasoning. When you are rinsing your rice you should see the water turn clear. Give it a quick stir to make sure all the seasoning is incorporated. Place the chicken back on top.

• cover and cook for about 15-20 min or until rice is fully cooked and fluffy.

Notes

Always cook with your heart and keep an eye on things. timing and temperature are only reference points and not the hard fast rule. if you keep an eye on things and notice your rice is cooked before the time is up you are good to go.

calories on this one pot chicken and rice meal is based on an internet calculator and are based on 1 portion.