One Pot Chicken and Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pot Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort meal—fluffy, flavorful rice infused with rich broth, tender chicken, and sautéed carrots, all cooked in just one pot. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep favorite, this dish delivers.

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• One-Pot Simplicity – Fewer dishes, less cleanup.
• Packed with Flavor – Perfectly seasoned and buttery.
• Hearty & Satisfying – A complete meal with protein, carbs, and veggies.
• Customizable – Add mushrooms, peas, or fresh herbs.
• Meal-Prep Friendly – Stores and reheats beautifully.

Essential Tools & Equipment

To make this dish effortlessly, have these tools ready:

• Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven – Prevents sticking and distributes heat evenly.
• Wooden Spoon – Ideal for stirring without damaging the pot.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Ensures accurate ingredient portions.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping chicken and prepping vegetables.

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients

• 4–6 tablespoons butter or vegan butter, divided
• 1 heaping cup shredded or chopped carrots
• 2 scant cups long-grain white rice (Lundberg White Jasmine Rice recommended)
• 8 cups chicken stock
• 2 chicken breasts (~1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces

Seasonings & Aromatics

• Homemade seasoned salt and pepper (see notes)
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
• 1 teaspoon dried minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley flakes

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Carrots

• Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large soup pot over medium heat.
• Add shredded carrots, season with seasoned salt and pepper, and cover with a lid.
• Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender.

2. Toast the Rice

• Add rice, dried onion, and dried garlic to the pot.
• Stir to coat the rice in butter and sauté for 1 minute to enhance flavor.
• Mix in dried parsley flakes.

3. Add Stock & Simmer

• Pour in chicken stock and increase heat to high.
• Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

4. Add the Chicken

• While the rice is cooking, season chicken pieces with seasoned salt and pepper.
• Add the chicken to the pot and turn the heat up slightly to bring it back to a gentle simmer.
• Reduce heat to medium-low again and continue simmering for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is al dente.

5. Finish & Serve

• Stir in the remaining 2-4 tablespoons butter, depending on how creamy you want it.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with additional seasoned salt and pepper if needed.
• Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving—this allows the flavors to meld and the rice to thicken.

6. Serve & Enjoy

• Scoop into bowls and serve warm.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for an extra flavor boost.

Recipe Notes & Customizations

• Best Rice Choice – Use high-quality long-grain rice for a fluffy, non-sticky texture.
• Want More Veggies? – Add mushrooms, peas, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Make it Creamier – Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a risotto-like consistency.
• Prefer Dark Meat? – Swap chicken breasts for thighs for more juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is already a complete meal, but you can enhance it with extra garnishes and sides for more flavor and texture. Here are a few ways to serve it:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs – A sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or cilantro adds color and brightness.
• Add Cheese – Grated Parmesan or cheddar for a rich, creamy finish.
• Brighten with Lemon – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice balances the flavors.
• Spice it Up – A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick.
• Make it Creamy – Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Even though this recipe is simple, a few common mistakes can impact the final result. Here’s how to ensure perfect chicken and rice every time.

• Rice Turns Mushy – Use long-grain rice and avoid overcooking. Reduce heat as soon as the liquid reaches a simmer.
• Chicken is Dry or Overcooked – Add the chicken after the rice has partially cooked to keep it tender.
• Dish is Bland – Use homemade seasoned salt, high-quality chicken broth, and a generous amount of butter for richness.
• Rice Sticks to the Pot – Stir occasionally and keep the heat on medium-low to prevent scorching.
• Not Enough Liquid – If the rice absorbs too much broth, add an extra half cup of stock as needed while cooking.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chicken and Rice

Since this dish is rich and hearty, pair it with lighter, fresh, or crispy side dishes to create a balanced meal.

1. Garlic Green Beans

A simple side of sautéed garlic green beans adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy rice.

How to Make:

• Sauté green beans in olive oil with minced garlic for three to four minutes.
• Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and lemon zest for extra flavor.

2. Steamed Broccoli

A nutrient-packed side that pairs well with the buttery rice.

How to Make:

• Steam broccoli florets for four to five minutes until tender.
• Toss with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Crispy oven-roasted Brussels sprouts add a delicious, slightly charred contrast.

How to Make:

• Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
• Roast at 425°F for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.

4. Simple Cucumber Salad

A cool and refreshing side that balances the warmth of the chicken and rice.

How to Make:

• Slice cucumbers thinly and toss with lemon juice, olive oil, and dill.
• Add a pinch of salt and black pepper for extra flavor.

5. Buttery Corn on the Cob

Sweet corn on the cob adds a juicy, buttery bite to your meal.

How to Make:

• Boil corn for five to seven minutes until tender.
• Brush with melted butter and a sprinkle of sea salt.

6. Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms add depth and umami to the meal.

How to Make:

• Sauté mushrooms in butter and garlic until golden brown.
• Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley for an extra boost.

7. Homemade Dinner Rolls

Soft, buttery dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up the flavorful rice.

How to Make:

• Use store-bought or homemade dinner rolls.
• Brush with garlic butter before serving.

8. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

For an ultra-cozy meal, serve the chicken and rice with a side of smooth mashed potatoes.

How to Make:

• Boil potatoes until fork-tender.
• Mash with butter, milk, salt, and a touch of garlic powder.

Expert Recipe Tips

• Use Quality Chicken Broth – A rich, flavorful broth enhances the dish. If using store-bought, choose low-sodium to control the salt level.
• Toast the Rice – Sautéing the rice before adding broth develops a deeper flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the dish to sit for five minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld and creates a creamier texture.
• Adjust Consistency – If the rice is too thick, stir in a little extra broth before serving to loosen it up.
• Add Texture – For extra crunch, top with toasted almonds or crispy fried onions.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

This dish is perfect for meal prep and stores well in the refrigerator or freezer.

Refrigeration

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• To prevent the rice from drying out, stir in a splash of broth or water before reheating.

Freezing

• Freeze in individual portions in airtight containers for up to three months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Methods

Stovetop (Best for Texture)

1. Place the leftovers in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add a quarter cup of broth or water per serving and stir.
3. Cook for five to seven minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Microwave (Quickest Option)

1. Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Add a splash of broth and cover with a damp paper towel.
3. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.

Oven (For Larger Portions)

1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Place the chicken and rice in an oven-safe dish and add a little broth.
3. Cover with foil and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through.

Avoid reheating on high heat to prevent drying out the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes. Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook, about 30 to 40 minutes. Add extra broth as needed.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a certified gluten-free chicken broth.

4. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?

Yes. Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken during the last five minutes of cooking.

5. What other vegetables can I add?

Peas, mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini all work well. Add them during the last five to ten minutes of cooking.

6. How do I make this dish extra creamy?

Stir in a splash of heavy cream, coconut milk, or a dollop of sour cream before serving.

7. Can I cook this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes. To make slow cooker chicken and rice:

• Add all ingredients except the rice and butter to a slow cooker.
• Cook on low for six to seven hours or high for three to four hours.
• Add rice in the last 30 to 40 minutes of cooking, then stir in butter before serving.

8. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes. Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. They may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chicken and Rice is the ultimate weeknight dinner—easy to make, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re meal-prepping, cooking for a family, or just craving a hearty, home-cooked meal, this recipe is always a great choice.

Why This Recipe Works

• Simple one-pot cooking for minimal cleanup.
• Perfectly seasoned, buttery, and full of flavor.
• Customizable with different vegetables and protein options.
• Meal-prep friendly and freezer-friendly.

Try it and experiment with your favorite variations. Adding extra vegetables, a different spice blend, or a creamy element can take this dish to the next level.