One Pot Chicken And Rice With Garlic

Name: One Pot Chicken And Rice With Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in; 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 large onion, diced; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup frozen peas; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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I love cooking meals that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. One Pot Chicken and Rice with Garlic has become one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights. With tender chicken thighs simmered in a savory broth alongside perfectly fluffy rice, it’s a satisfying dish that brings the whole family together. The aromatic garlic elevates the flavor, making it irresistible. I can’t wait to share this recipe that has transformed our dinner routine into something truly special!

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:37:35.598Z

When I first tried making One Pot Chicken and Rice, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create an incredibly flavorful dish. Utilizing a single pot not only saves time on cleanup but also allows the rice to absorb all the rich juices from the chicken and garlic, infusing every bite with flavor.

I remember the first time I let my friends try this recipe—it was an instant hit! They loved how the garlic brought a depth to the dish that was both comforting and delicious. Cooking everything in one pot means you can focus on the flavors without worrying about multiple pans, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Succulent chicken infused with layers of garlic flavor
Easy cleanup with just one pot required
Satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings

      

Unlocking Flavor in One Pot

One of the key techniques to mastering this One Pot Chicken and Rice is the initial searing of the chicken thighs. This step not only enhances the flavor profile by creating a lovely crust, but it also contributes to the overall depth of the dish. Be sure to preheat your pot adequately to achieve that golden brown color on the skin, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes on medium heat. The little brown bits left in the pot after searing add an extra layer of richness when you sauté the aromatics.

Using basmati rice is a game changer in this recipe. Its long grain and aromatic qualities make it the perfect vessel for absorbing the savory broth. After rinsing, which removes excess starch, the rice should be added only after the aromatics are fragrant—this ensures it captures that delightful garlicky essence. Keep an eye on the cooking time; ideally, the rice should simmer for about 20 minutes, or until it’s tender and fluffy, soaking up the flavors from the chicken and broth.

Perfecting the Simmer

When it comes to simmering, maintaining control over the heat is crucial. Once the pot reaches a boil, lower the heat to the lowest setting to avoid overcooking the rice. A gentle simmer is essential; too aggressive a boil can result in mushy grains instead of the desired fluffy texture. I recommend using a lid that fits snugly to retain moisture, checking occasionally to ensure that the rice is absorbing liquid without sticking to the bottom.

As the dish nears completion, adding the frozen peas in the last five minutes not only brings a pop of color but also provides a sweet contrast to the savory chicken and garlic. They add a fresh flavor and retain their vibrant green appearance. If fresh peas are available, feel free to substitute them for an even brighter taste, adjusting the cooking time slightly since fresh peas will require less time to heat through.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This One Pot Chicken and Rice is an excellent make-ahead meal and keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. For reheating, a gentle approach works best; heat the dish on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth to restore moisture, or microwave with a damp paper towel over it to create steam. Be cautious not to overheat, as rice can become gummy if reheated too aggressively.

For serving, a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a beautiful finishing touch but also enhances the dish's aroma. Consider pairing this meal with a light green salad or some crusty bread to soak up any remaining broth. Variations can include adding herbs like thyme or rosemary during the cooking process or stirring in some fresh spinach right before serving for an extra nutritious boost!

Ingredients

Ingredients for One Pot Chicken and Rice With Garlic:

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
4 cups chicken broth
1 large onion, diced
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

These simple ingredients come together to create a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

Instructions

Instructions:

Sear the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Place the chicken in the pot, skin side down, and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes, then remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Cook the Rice

Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pot and stir to coat it in the aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Return the chicken thighs to the pot, skin side up, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid.

Simmer and Finish

Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. In the last 5 minutes, add the frozen peas and cover again.

Serve

Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes, covered. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy this delicious One Pot Chicken and Rice with Garlic as a comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add some lemon juice or zest right before serving. If you want a bit of heat, include red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.

Ingredient Roles

The chicken thighs are not just the main protein in this dish; their skin and bones provide essential flavor that enriches the broth. Opting for skin-on and bone-in cuts rather than boneless chicken breasts ensures a juicier and more flavorful outcome, as they retain moisture and impart richness into the rice while it cooks.

Paprika is the secret ingredient that offers a smoky depth, balancing the bold garlic notes. Choose a smoked paprika if you desire a more pronounced smoky flavor, or sweet paprika for a milder taste. Adjusting the amount can cater to different palates while still keeping the integrity of the dish intact.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

For those looking to tweak the recipe for dietary needs, you can easily swap out chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Simply sauté the tofu until golden and add it back to the pot during the last five minutes of simmering to heat through without compromising texture. Alternatively, use brown rice instead of basmati for a heartier meal, just note that you may need to increase the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes to ensure it cooks thoroughly.

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what is in your pantry. Carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini can be tossed in with the rice, enhancing both nutrition and flavor. Just be mindful of cooking times to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

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

→ What can I substitute for chicken thighs?

Chicken breast can be used, but it tends to be drier. You could also use bone-in chicken legs for more flavor.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just reheat gently before serving.

→ Is it necessary to rinse the rice?

Rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch, which prevents it from becoming gummy during cooking.