Chicken and Rice

This easy one-pot Chicken and Rice recipe combines tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s the perfect dish for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken and Rice recipe is simple, wholesome, and full of flavor. The combination of chicken, sautéed vegetables, and seasoned rice creates a comforting dish that feels both hearty and light. With just one pot, it’s an easy cleanup, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something quick yet delicious. Plus, the addition of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley elevates the flavors, making it a meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 large carrots, shredded (about 1 cup)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced

• 2 teaspoons salt, divided in half

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces

• ½ teaspoon pepper

• 5 cups hot chicken broth

• 2 cups Jasmine rice

• ¼ cup fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

Place a heavy soup pot on the stove over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter to the pot. Once the butter melts, add the shredded carrots, diced onion, minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and aromatic, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Cook the Chicken:

Add the chicken pieces to the pot and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Stir occasionally, allowing the chicken to brown on all sides, about 8 to 10 minutes.

3. Add the Rice and Broth:

Turn the heat to high and add the chicken broth to the pot. Stir in the rice. Bring everything to a boil, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed, about 15 to 20 minutes.

4. Finish the Dish:

Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat. Stir in the chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese. Keep the pot covered to stay warm if you’re not serving immediately.

5. Serve:

Serve the Chicken and Rice immediately, garnished with more Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 50 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Servings: 8 servings

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or corn to the dish for extra flavor and nutrients.

• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables.

• Use Brown Rice: You can substitute the Jasmine rice with brown rice, though it may require slightly more cooking time and additional liquid.

• Make it Creamy: Stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for a creamier texture.

• Herb Variation: Swap the parsley for other fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this dish. They add a bit more richness and flavor. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly, and chop them into bite-sized pieces.

2. Can I use frozen vegetables?

You can use frozen vegetables, though fresh vegetables will give the dish better texture. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dish.

3. Can I make this recipe with white rice instead of Jasmine rice?

Yes, white rice will work in place of Jasmine rice. However, you might need to adjust the cooking time, as white rice tends to cook a bit faster.

4. How do I know when the rice is cooked?

When the rice is cooked, it will be tender and the liquid will be absorbed. You can taste a small portion to check for doneness—if the rice still has a bite to it, let it cook a little longer.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! You can double the ingredients to serve more people. Just make sure your pot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients, and adjust the cooking time as needed.

6. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth is a great alternative if you prefer a vegetarian version of this dish.

7. Can I add cheese to the rice while it cooks?

While Parmesan cheese is added at the end, you can add other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella during the cooking process. Just stir it in after the rice is fully cooked and the broth is absorbed.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Store the leftover Chicken and Rice in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

9. How do I keep the chicken tender?

To keep the chicken tender, avoid overcooking it. Sauté it just enough to brown and cook it through—about 8-10 minutes—so it stays juicy.

10. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients. Just make sure the chicken broth you use is labeled gluten-free if necessary.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Rice recipe is the perfect one-pot meal that’s quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. With tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, it’s the ultimate comfort food that comes together in just over an hour. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!

Print