Easy Chicken and Rice Recipe: Perfect for Dinner!
This easy chicken and rice recipe is a comforting, one-pot meal that combines tender chicken with fluffy rice, all cooked together to absorb rich flavors. It's a versatile dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup frozen peas optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the skillet.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in rice, chicken broth, thyme, and paprika. Bring to a boil.
- Return chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them on top of the rice.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- If using, add frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet: Ensure there's enough space for the chicken to brown properly.
- Don't skip searing the chicken: This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Use long-grain rice: Short-grain rice may become too sticky in this recipe.
- Check the rice: If the rice isn't fully cooked but the liquid is absorbed, add a bit more broth and continue cooking.