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: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup long-grain rice; 4 cups chicken broth; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Meals Recipes

I love making One Pot Chicken and Rice with Garlic when I want comfort food without too much hassle. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fragrant garlic in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. The simplicity of the recipe allows the flavors to shine, and I often find myself adjusting the garlic based on my mood. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this meal checks all the boxes for flavor, ease, and satisfaction. It's one of my go-to favorites for sure!

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:45:36.073Z

When I first tried One Pot Chicken and Rice with Garlic, I couldn't believe how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. Using just one pot means each ingredient absorbs the others' tastes, creating a harmonious dish that is comforting and delicious. I've made it plenty of times, with friends or family, and it always receives rave reviews.

One trick I've discovered is to sauté the garlic until it's golden before adding it to the rice. This way, the oil infuses the rice with a deep flavor that elevates the entire meal. The combination of juicy chicken and seasoned rice with a hint of garlic is irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Flavorful garlic infuses the rice and chicken wonderfully
Simple, one-pot cooking makes for easy cleanup
Perfect balance of protein and carbs for a hearty meal

Techniques for Flavorful Chicken

Searing the chicken thighs before adding any other ingredients is crucial for deep flavor development. When you cook the chicken until golden brown, the process releases natural fats that enhance the overall dish. This Maillard reaction creates a rich base for your one-pot meal. Keep an eye on the heat; adjust it as necessary to avoid burning while still achieving that perfect golden hue.

Another important tip is to let the chicken rest after you sauté it. This step allows juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful. When it's time to return the chicken to the pot, it will continue cooking and absorb more flavors. Patience in these steps pays off in a satisfying, succulent result.

Perfecting the Rice Texture

To achieve fluffy, perfectly cooked rice, it's important not to stir too much once the chicken broth is added. Stirring can lead to starchy, gummy rice. Instead, gently combine the ingredients once and let the rice simmer undisturbed. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam, ensuring even cooking and moisture retention.

The type of rice you choose can impact the final texture as well. Long-grain rice, like basmati or jasmine, is ideal for this recipe because it separates beautifully during cooking. If you prefer brown rice for its health benefits, note that it requires a longer cooking time—about 30-40 minutes of simmering—so adjust the broth quantity accordingly.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Steps

Sauté the Chicken

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

Cook Onion and Garlic

In the same pot, add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice and let it toast for about 2 minutes. Then, return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add vegetables like peas or bell peppers during the cooking process. You can also substitute brown rice for more fiber but may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.

For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the stovetop reheating method. This one-pot meal retains its flavors and textures surprisingly well after freezing, making it a practical choice for meal prepping.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste. For instance, adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas not only boosts nutritional value but also introduces different textures and flavors. If you prefer a creamier dish, consider stirring in a dollop of cream or sour cream just before serving for added richness.

For a spicy twist, you can incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the onion and garlic. Another great option is to use different proteins, such as shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian spin, adjusting the cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook and may require additional liquid.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it for a quick meal.

→ What can I substitute for chicken thighs?

You can use boneless chicken breasts or even rotisserie chicken if you're short on time.

→ Is there a way to make it spicier?

Certainly! Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking for some heat.