Cozy One-Pot Chicken & Rice

Name: Cozy One-Pot Chicken & Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the ultimate comfort meal with this Cozy One-Pot Chicken & Rice recipe. Tender chicken and fluffy rice come together in a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, simmered to perfection for a dish that warms the heart. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this easy-to-make recipe is your go-to for family dinners.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-24T07:32:59.712Z

This dish brings warmth and comfort to your table, making it a family favorite.

The Comfort of One-Pot Meals

One-pot meals are the epitome of convenience, especially for busy families or anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine. With just one pot to clean, you can enjoy all the flavors without the hassle of multiple dishes. This Cozy One-Pot Chicken & Rice is no exception, offering a hearty and filling meal that satisfies your cravings without a mountain of cleanup afterward.

Cooking everything in one pot not only saves time but also enhances the flavors of your ingredients. As the chicken simmers with the rice, it releases delicious juices that infuse the dish with a rich, savory taste. This method of cooking allows the herbs and spices to meld beautifully, creating a comforting and cohesive flavor profile that will keep everyone at the table coming back for seconds.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Cozy One-Pot Chicken & Rice recipe fits effortlessly into your meal planning, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Whether it's a hectic weeknight dinner, a casual weekend gathering, or a cozy family meal, this dish checks all the boxes. Its comforting nature makes it a popular choice for cold nights or when you simply want a warm hug in a bowl.

Additionally, the easy preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated, making it a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts who appreciate convenience without sacrificing flavor.

Customize to Your Taste

One of the best features of this recipe is its adaptability. While the classic version features chicken and rice, you can easily customize the ingredients to fit your family's preferences or dietary restrictions. Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, you can mix in your favorite vegetables, such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers, great for boosting nutrition and flavor.

For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or experimenting with different herbs. The versatility of this dish means you can make it new every time while still holding onto the comforting essence that makes it a family favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Sear the Chicken

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

Remove from the pot and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Rice and Broth

Add the rice, chicken broth, thyme, and paprika to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Combine and Simmer

Return the seared chicken to the pot, skin-side up. Cover and reduce heat to low, then allow to simmer for 25 minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your cozy one-pot meal!

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftover Cozy One-Pot Chicken & Rice, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This dish can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. The hearty nature of this meal means it can maintain its deliciousness even after being frozen.

When you're ready to reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm it on the stovetop over low heat. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to help restore the moisture and fluffy texture of the rice as it reheats.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you're looking to round out your meal, consider pairing it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A light side salad can help balance the savory flavors of the chicken and rice, while brightening the plate with color and texture. A simple vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully.

For a delightful twist, serve it with a side of crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the flavorful broth. Simple desserts like fruit salad or a light sorbet can be a refreshing finish to your meal after enjoying the comforting richness of the chicken and rice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute brown rice for white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid.

→ Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken will cook faster. Adjust cooking time as needed.