One-Pot Chicken Rice Vegetables
Highlighted under: Simple & Tasty Meals
This One-Pot Chicken Rice Vegetables recipe is a wholesome and flavorful meal that comes together in a single pot. Perfect for busy weeknights!
This dish brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of vibrant vegetables, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup. It’s a family-friendly meal that everyone will love!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup
- Packed with protein and nutrients from chicken and vegetables
- Versatile: customize with your favorite veggies and spices
- Comforting and satisfying meal for the whole family
A Wholesome Meal in One Pot
One-Pot Chicken Rice Vegetables is not only a time-saver but also a wholesome dish that brings together protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins in a single serving. This recipe eliminates the need for multiple pots and pans, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup. The delicious combination of chicken, rice, and vegetables ensures that everyone at the table will enjoy a balanced meal.
Using a variety of colorful vegetables enhances the nutritional value of this dish while also adding visual appeal. You can easily incorporate seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand, making it a versatile choice for families. This adaptability allows you to cater to your family's preferences while reducing food waste.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This one-pot wonder is also perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare a larger batch over the weekend and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Simply store the dish in airtight containers, and you’ll have a healthy, homemade meal ready to reheat at a moment's notice. This will not only save you time but also help you stick to healthier eating habits during busy days.
When reheating, just add a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist and flavorful. This dish remains delicious even after a few days in the fridge, making it an excellent option for those who want to save time without sacrificing quality.
Customizing Your One-Pot Dish
One of the best aspects of the One-Pot Chicken Rice Vegetables recipe is its customization potential. Feel free to experiment with different proteins like turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also switch up the spices according to your taste preferences—try adding curry powder for an Indian twist or Italian herbs for a Mediterranean flair.
Similarly, the vegetable choices are endless. Broccoli, zucchini, or corn can easily be added or substituted. This means you can adapt the dish according to what’s in season or what your family loves. Creating your unique version of this recipe can turn a regular weeknight dinner into an exciting culinary experience.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking:
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready to ensure a smooth cooking process!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious one-pot meal:
Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for another 3 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Add the rice to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Place the browned chicken thighs on top of the rice.
Cook the Dish
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve and Garnish
Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot!
This one-pot meal is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious!
Tips for Success
For the best results, ensure that your chicken thighs are trimmed of excess fat before cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a healthier meal. Additionally, searing the chicken until golden brown locks in juices and adds depth to the overall taste of the dish.
When adding the rice, make sure to stir well to prevent sticking. This ensures that every grain absorbs the flavorful chicken broth and spices. Remember to adjust the cooking time depending on the type of rice you use; some varieties may require a longer cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
This One-Pot Chicken Rice Vegetables dish can be served as a standalone meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or crusty bread. A light vinaigrette can complement the heartiness of the dish, providing a refreshing balance of flavors.
For a special occasion, consider adding a sprinkle of grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top just before serving. These toppings can elevate the dish, making it feel more indulgent while still keeping it nutritious.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheating should be done gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Adding a little chicken broth will help maintain moisture and flavor during reheating.
For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in portions. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. This makes it easy to enjoy a homemade meal anytime you need a quick dinner solution!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount since brown rice takes longer to cook.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add any vegetables you like, such as zucchini, corn, or broccoli.
→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, simply follow the same steps and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
One-Pot Chicken Rice Vegetables
This One-Pot Chicken Rice Vegetables recipe is a wholesome and flavorful meal that comes together in a single pot. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Created by: Lena
Recipe Type: Simple & Tasty Meals
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for another 3 minutes.
Add the rice to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Place the browned chicken thighs on top of the rice.
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g