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

Highlighted under: Quick & Simple

I love making One Pot Chicken and Rice with Garlic because it's not only easy to prepare, but it also simplifies cleanup. Cooking everything in one pot allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken juicy and the rice perfectly tender. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, and the aromatic garlic takes it to another level of deliciousness. Trust me, this meal will become a favorite at your dining table, just like it has at mine.

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:57:35.270Z

When I first tried making One Pot Chicken and Rice with Garlic, I was amazed by how simple yet rewarding the process was. Using just one pot means less mess and more time to enjoy with family or friends. I found that sautéing the garlic until golden-brown before adding the rice created a rich base that enhanced the dish immensely, so it's worth taking that extra minute!

The aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen is truly irresistible. As I tasted the final result, the chicken was tender, and the rice soaked up all of the tasty seasonings. I realized this is a meal I can whip up any day of the week without fussing over multiple pans or complicated steps!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pot convenience means less cleanup time.
Packed with flavor from garlic and spices.
Juicy chicken paired with fluffy rice creates a satisfying meal.

Mastering One-Pot Cooking

One of the key benefits of this One Pot Chicken and Rice with Garlic recipe is the way it allows flavors to develop harmoniously. When sautéing the chicken, aim for a golden-brown crust, which adds both flavor and textural contrast to the tender rice. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot during this step, as that could prevent proper browning. If necessary, sauté the chicken in two batches to ensure even cooking and optimal surface caramelization.

When adding the aromatics, pay attention to the onions turning translucent and the garlic becoming fragrant, as this indicates they are ready for the next step. Cooking them for just 2-3 minutes at a medium heat is crucial; if you cook them too long, the garlic can burn and turn bitter, impacting the dish's overall flavor.

Ingredient Insights

Using long-grain rice ensures that each grain remains fluffy and separate, which is a hallmark of this dish. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with basmati or jasmine rice, but be mindful that these may require slight adjustments to cooking times. Always check the rice packaging for exact water ratios, especially if switching rice types, to achieve the best texture.

Garlic is a fundamental component of this recipe, lending a rich aroma and flavor. However, if you're looking for a milder taste, you could reduce the amount of garlic or use garlic powder as a substitute. Just remember, one clove of fresh garlic equals about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder, so adjust accordingly to maintain the dish's integrity.

Serving and Storing Tips

This One Pot Chicken and Rice is an ideal meal for meal prepping, as it holds up well in the refrigerator. Once cooked, allow the dish to cool to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. For reheating, simply place portions in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture, and heat until warmed through.

If you're looking to elevate your meal, consider adding seasonal vegetables like peas or carrots to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Not only will this add color and nutrition, but it also enhances the dish's flavor profile. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary make delightful garnishes, providing a fresh contrast to the richness of the garlic and chicken.

Ingredients

To make this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Here's how to create this simple yet flavorful One Pot Chicken and Rice with Garlic:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pot and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Add Rice and Spices

Stir in the rice, paprika, and dried thyme. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.

Combine the Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and return the chicken to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 25 minutes, until the rice is fluffy and cooked through.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious One Pot Chicken and Rice with Garlic!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding some diced vegetables like bell peppers or peas during the cooking process.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that the rice is undercooked after the initial 25 minutes, it may be that the pot wasn't covered tightly enough or there was too much heat escaping. You can add a bit more broth or water, cover, and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the rice is fully cooked. Always check the doneness of the rice before serving.

Conversely, if the rice is overly mushy, it may have been overcooked or had too much liquid added. To remedy this, you can try spreading the rice out on a baking sheet and letting it cool slightly, which may help to firm up the texture.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for larger gatherings. For every additional 2 chicken thighs, increase the rice by 1/2 cup and add an extra cup of chicken broth. Just ensure your pot can accommodate the added ingredients without overflowing during cooking.

When scaling the recipe, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Keep an eye on the rice and adjust the simmering time, checking for doneness. It's a good practice to taste the rice as the cooking time approaches the 25-minute mark to ensure it’s cooked to your preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but note that brown rice has a different cooking time and may require additional liquid.

→ What if I don't have chicken thighs?

Chicken breasts can be used instead, but make sure not to overcook them to keep them juicy.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.