one pot chicken and rice (easy weeknight dinner)

One-Pot Chicken and Rice (Easy Weeknight Dinner) Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 40 mins Serves: 4 | Calories per serving: ~450 kcal Why You'll Love This Recipe Quick and easy – done in 40 minutes! Made in a single pot – less mess. Budget-friendly and kid-approved. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Meta Description: This quick and easy one-pot chicken and rice recipe is the perfect weeknight dinner. Healthy, budget-friendly, and ready in 30 minutes!" Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks 1 small onion, diced 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked) 2 cups chicken broth 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional) 1 teaspoon paprika ½ teaspoon ground black pepper Salt to taste Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) Instructions Sear the Chicken Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and brown for 4–5 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside. Sauté the Aromatics In the same pot, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the Rice and Broth Stir in the uncooked rice. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a light simmer. Combine and Cook Return the chicken to the pot, cover with a lid, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed. Add Veggies (Optional) If using frozen peas and carrots, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Fluff and Serve Remove from heat. Let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Tips for Success Use long-grain rice like Basmati or Jasmine for the best texture. Want a creamy version? Add a splash of cream or shredded cheese at the end. For added flavor, squeeze in lemon juice before serving. Storage & Reheating Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat in a microwave or skillet with a splash of broth or water. FAQ Can I use brown rice? Yes, but increase the cooking time to 35–40 minutes and add more broth. Can I make this vegetarian? Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth. Can I freeze it? Yes! Freeze in individual portions for easy meal prep.