Chicken and Rice Recipe – Comforting, Flavorful & Easy Dinner

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, this chicken and rice recipe hits all the right notes. It’s warm, hearty, and packed with flavor — a satisfying one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. With tender, juicy chicken and perfectly seasoned rice cooked together, you get a delicious dinner without the hassle of multiple pans.

Ingredients for Chicken and Rice

For the Chicken

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – or 2 large chicken breasts, halved
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• ½ teaspoon (2g) black pepper
• ½ teaspoon (2g) paprika – smoked or sweet

For the Rice

• 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice – rinsed until water runs clear
• 2 tablespoons (30g) butter – or olive oil for dairy-free
• ½ cup (75g) onion – finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic – minced
• 1 medium carrot (80g) – diced
• 2 ½ cups (600ml) chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon (2g) salt – adjust as needed
• ¼ teaspoon (1g) dried thyme – or oregano

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley – chopped
• Lemon wedges – optional, for brightness

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season and sear the chicken
   Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté vegetables
   In the same pan, melt butter. Add onion, garlic, and carrot. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Toast the rice
   Stir in the rice and cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
4. Add liquid and seasonings
   Pour in chicken broth, add thyme and salt, and stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the pot
   Nestle the seared chicken into the rice mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
6. Simmer until cooked
   Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature 75°C / 165°F).
7. Rest and serve
   Remove from heat, let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff rice, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Tips & Variations for Chicken and Rice Recipe

• Make it creamy – Stir in ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream or coconut milk after cooking for a richer dish.
• Add vegetables – Peas, bell peppers, or spinach make it more colorful and nutritious.
• Use boneless chicken – Reduces cooking time by 5–7 minutes.
• Spice it up – Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this with brown rice?
Yes, but cooking time will increase to about 40–45 minutes, and you may need an extra ½ cup of broth.

2. Can I cook this in the oven?
Absolutely. After adding the broth and chicken, cover and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 35 minutes.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to keep rice moist.

Love this chicken and rice recipe? Pair it with our Spanish rice recipe for a flavor-packed weeknight rotation.

For more one-pot dinner inspiration, check out chicken and rice ideas to explore more variations.