Name: Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 2 medium carrots, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup long grain rice; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 3/4 cups chicken broth; Fresh parsley, for serving

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Chicken and Rice is a simple, flavorful one-pan meal that combines tender, seasoned chicken thighs with perfectly cooked rice and vegetables. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan meal with minimal cleanup
Tender, juicy chicken thighs seasoned to perfection
Fluffy, flavorful rice cooked in chicken broth
Quick and easy to prepare in under an hour
Perfect for meal prep or family dinners
Includes vegetables like onions and carrots for extra nutrition

Balanced, hearty, and comforting
Easily customizable with your favorite herbs or spices
Naturally gluten-free
Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

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

1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 small yellow onion, chopped
2 medium carrots, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long grain rice
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 ¾ cups chicken broth
Fresh parsley, for serving

Directions

In a small bowl, mix together oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle over chicken thighs, coating both sides.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large shallow casserole dish or skillet over medium heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook 4 minutes per side until browned. Remove to a plate.

Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the pan. Cook onion and carrot until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Stir in rice and cook 2–3 minutes, then pour in chicken broth. Season with additional salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
Place chicken thighs on top of the rice, keeping them in a single layer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes.

Turn off the heat and leave covered for 10 minutes to allow the rice to finish cooking and absorb the flavors.
Serve topped with fresh parsley and additional salt if needed.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Boost: Add peas, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Spicy Version: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Herb Twist: Use fresh thyme, rosemary, or cilantro instead of parsley.
Brown Rice: Substitute brown rice for a nuttier flavor; increase cooking time to 40–45 minutes.
Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, adjusting cook time slightly.

Cheesy: Stir in shredded cheese at the end for a creamy finish.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat (Stovetop): Warm over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Reheat (Microwave): Heat individual portions for 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken and rice in portions for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but monitor cooking time carefully to prevent drying out.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the rice and vegetables in advance; add chicken when ready to cook.

Can I use other types of rice?

Yes, long-grain, jasmine, or basmati rice work. Adjust liquid and cooking time if using brown rice.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, peas, zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms are excellent additions.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, this works for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.

Can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or smoked paprika for extra heat.

Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes, transfer to a covered baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh oregano or thyme can be used; add towards the end of cooking for best flavor.

How do I prevent rice from being mushy?

Use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio, keep the lid on while cooking, and avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

Chicken and Rice is a comforting, easy-to-make one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With tender, seasoned chicken, flavorful rice, and fresh vegetables, this dish is a balanced and satisfying option the whole family will enjoy.