Craving a cozy, delicious dinner with minimal cleanup? This One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf is the perfect Flavorful Weeknight Meal! Blending tender chicken thighs, fluffy rice, and warm spices, this savory one-pot dish is ideal for busy evenings. Ready in about 45 minutes, this hearty chicken pilaf is wholesome, customizable, and sure to please. Let’s cook up a One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf for a comforting, aromatic treat!
Why You’ll Love One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf
- One-Pot Simplicity: Cooks in a single pot for quick prep and easy cleanup in this savory one-pot dish.
- Bold Flavors: Cumin, turmeric, and garlic create a rich aromatic rice skillet.
- Complete Meal: Protein, carbs, and veggies make a balanced hearty chicken pilaf.
- Flexible: Swap veggies or spices for a personalized flavorful weeknight meal.
- Weeknight Ease: Minimal effort for a delicious aromatic rice skillet in under an hour.
Ingredients for One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf
Here’s what you’ll need for this savory one-pot dish (makes 4 servings):
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1 lb/450g)
- 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice (e.g., basmati)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups (480ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup (150g) carrots, diced (optional)
- ½ cup (75g) frozen peas (optional)
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Equipment
- Large pot with lid
- Tongs
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Tips
- Chicken Thighs: Juicier than breasts, thighs enhance flavor in One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf.
- Rice: Long-grain or basmati ensures a fluffy aromatic rice skillet; rinse for less creamy texture if preferred.
- Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps this savory one-pot dish balanced; vegetable broth works as a substitute.
- Spices: Cumin, turmeric, and paprika add warmth to this hearty chicken pilaf; adjust to taste.
- Veggies: Optional carrots and peas add color and nutrition to this flavorful weeknight meal.
Directions for One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf
Let’s create this aromatic rice skillet!
Prep the Chicken
I pat 4 chicken thighs dry and season with ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, and a pinch of cumin. In a large pot over medium-high heat, I heat 2 tbsp olive oil and brown the thighs for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. I remove and set aside for this One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf.
Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, I add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant, scraping up browned bits for a rich savory one-pot dish.
Toast the Rice
I add 1 cup rice to the pot, stirring to coat in oil and toasting for 2 minutes to boost flavor in this hearty chicken pilaf.
Add Broth and Spices
I pour in 2 cups chicken broth, add 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp turmeric, ½ tsp paprika, and a pinch of salt, stirring well. I nestle the chicken thighs back into the pot for this aromatic rice skillet.
Simmer the Pilaf
I bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until rice is tender and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), keeping the lid on to trap steam for this savory one-pot dish.
Add Veggies and Finish
I add 1 cup carrots and ½ cup peas (if using) in the last 5 minutes. Once done, I fluff the rice with a fork, sprinkle 2 tbsp parsley or cilantro, and serve warm, savoring this hearty chicken pilaf.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~400–450 kcal per serving
- Macros per Serving: 45g carbs, 25g protein, 15g fat, 3g fiber
Variations for One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf
Try these twists on this savory one-pot dish:
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for chickpeas, inspired by Food and Tips’ Vegan Breakfast Cookies.
- Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp cayenne or diced jalapeño for a fiery aromatic rice skillet.
- Grain Swap: Use quinoa or brown rice for a nuttier hearty chicken pilaf.
- Veggie Boost: Include mushrooms or spinach, inspired by Food and Tips’ Bok Choy and Mushroom Noodle Soup.
- Herb Twist: Try dill or mint, inspired by Food and Tips’ Fall Fruit Salad.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Food and Tips’ Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with Food and Tips’ Cucumber Blueberry Feta Salad for a crisp side.
- Enjoy with Food and Tips’ Coconut Cooler for a tropical touch.
Storage
I store One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 2–3 minutes, stirring to keep this savory one-pot dish moist. For freezing, I cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, thawing overnight before reheating, avoiding veggies like peas for best texture.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Serve this hearty chicken pilaf family-style in the pot for a warm, inviting vibe.
- Garnish: Add extra parsley or a lemon wedge for a vibrant aromatic rice skillet.
- Pairing: Enjoy with tea or Food and Tips’ Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte.
- Portion Size: ~1.5 cups per serving for a satisfying savory one-pot dish.
- Occasions: Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy gatherings.
FAQs About One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf
Here are answers to common questions about this dish:
Can I use chicken breasts for One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf?
Yes, but thighs are juicier; cook breasts to 165°F (74°C) to avoid drying out in this savory one-pot dish.
Should I rinse the rice?
Rinsing removes starch for fluffier rice, but skipping it gives a creamier aromatic rice skillet; choose based on preference.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free broth to keep this hearty chicken pilaf gluten-free.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown chicken and aromatics first, then cook with rice and broth on low for 3–4 hours for a flavorful weeknight meal.
How do I prevent mushy rice?
Avoid stirring after adding broth and use the correct liquid ratio for this One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf.
More High-Protein Meals You’ll Love
- High Protein Chicken Orzo: A Creamy, Healthy One-Pan Delight
- Protein Bagels
- Easy Baked Salmon Recipe: A Flavorful, Healthy Dinner
Conclusion
One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf is a comforting, flavorful way to enjoy a wholesome dinner with minimal effort. This savory one-pot dish, with its warm spices and tender chicken, is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Cook up this hearty chicken pilaf, garnish with fresh herbs, and savor a delicious, aromatic treat!
One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1 lb/450g)
- 1 cup 200g long-grain white rice (e.g., basmati)
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 cups 480ml low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup 150g carrots, diced (optional)
- ½ cup 75g frozen peas (optional)
- 2 tbsp 30ml olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro chopped
Instructions
Prep the Chicken
- I pat 4 chicken thighs dry and season with ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, and a pinch of cumin. In a large pot over medium-high heat, I heat 2 tbsp olive oil and brown the thighs for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. I remove and set aside for this One Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf.
Sauté Aromatics
- In the same pot, I add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant, scraping up browned bits for a rich savory one-pot dish.
Toast the Rice
- I add 1 cup rice to the pot, stirring to coat in oil and toasting for 2 minutes to boost flavor in this hearty chicken pilaf.
Add Broth and Spices
- I pour in 2 cups chicken broth, add 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp turmeric, ½ tsp paprika, and a pinch of salt, stirring well. I nestle the chicken thighs back into the pot for this aromatic rice skillet.
Simmer the Pilaf
- I bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until rice is tender and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), keeping the lid on to trap steam for this savory one-pot dish.
Add Veggies and Finish
- I add 1 cup carrots and ½ cup peas (if using) in the last 5 minutes. Once done, I fluff the rice with a fork, sprinkle 2 tbsp parsley or cilantro, and serve warm, savoring this hearty chicken pilaf.
Notes
- Pat Chicken Dry: Ensures better browning and richer flavor.
- Use Warm Broth: Helps maintain even cooking and reduces simmer time.
- Don’t Stir After Adding Liquid: Prevents rice from becoming mushy.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, keep the pot covered and off the heat for 5 minutes to steam the rice perfectly.
- Adjust Spices to Taste: Start with less and add more if you like it stronger.
Did you Like This Recipe? Please Rate and Comment Below!
