One-Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, hearty meal that comes together in just one pot. This One-Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf is the perfect example—simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Using tender chicken thighs, aromatic spices, and vibrant vegetables, this dish is a weeknight hero that you’ll find yourself making over and over again. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this pilaf delivers on taste and ease without compromising on nutrition. Plus, cleanup is a breeze, thanks to everything cooking in one pot!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This One-Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf is a staple that will quickly become a regular in your dinner rotation. Here’s why:

• Effortless Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pot, you spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your meal.
• Rich Flavor Profile: Paprika and cumin infuse the chicken and rice with a warm, earthy aroma that’s utterly irresistible.
• Versatile and Customizable: Swap out the peas or bell peppers for whatever veggies you have on hand without losing any of the heartiness.
• Perfectly Balanced: Protein, carbs, and veggies all in one dish make for a balanced, nourishing meal.
• Great for Leftovers: This pilaf tastes just as good the next day, making it ideal for lunches or quick dinners.

Gather These Ingredients

To make this comforting One-Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf, you’ll need the following:

• 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into chunks
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Cook’s Kit

For best results, have these tools handy:

• A large deep skillet or Dutch oven – perfect for one-pot cooking and even heat distribution.
• A wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring without scratching your pan.
• A sharp knife – to dice your onion, bell pepper, and chicken.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your spices and liquids precise.
• A lid for your pot – to trap steam and cook the rice perfectly.

One-Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf, Made Easy

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks. Dice the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic cloves. Measure out your rice, broth, and spices so everything is ready to go.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken

Heat the olive oil in your skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, stirring occasionally until softened—about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the chicken chunks, sprinkle with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, and cook until the chicken is browned on all sides but not fully cooked through—about 5-6 minutes.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the long-grain rice to the pot, stirring to coat the grains with the oil and spices. Toasting the rice for 2-3 minutes adds a lovely nutty flavor and keeps the grains from sticking together.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes.

Step 5: Add Peas and Finish Cooking

After 15 minutes, sprinkle the peas evenly over the rice and chicken. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Remove from heat and let the pilaf rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Fluff and Garnish

Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serve your One-Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf hot, straight from the pot, with a crisp side salad or some warm bread for a complete meal.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

• Swap peas for roasted butternut squash or sweet corn in the fall for a seasonal twist.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon and a handful of toasted almonds for a festive holiday vibe.
• Include chopped fresh mint or cilantro in spring and summer for a bright, herbaceous finish.
• Toss in dried cranberries or golden raisins for a touch of natural sweetness during winter gatherings.

What Not to Do

• Don’t skip browning the chicken—it builds depth of flavor that makes this pilaf special.
• Avoid lifting the lid while the rice is cooking; steam is what cooks the rice perfectly.
• Don’t use instant rice here—the cooking times and liquid ratios differ and will affect the texture.
• Be cautious with salt—chicken broth can be salty, so taste before adding more.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Proper storage will keep your One-Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf tasting fresh and delicious:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice.
• This pilaf also freezes well—portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used, but thighs tend to be more forgiving and juicy during cooking. If you use breasts, watch the cooking time closely to avoid drying them out.

What type of rice works best for this recipe?

Long-grain rice is ideal for this pilaf because it cooks up fluffy and separate. Avoid short-grain or sticky rice varieties, which can clump together and alter the dish’s texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken thighs with firm tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adjust spices and cooking times accordingly for best results.

Is it possible to make this dish spicier?

Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños during the sauté step to bring heat to the dish, or serve with hot sauce on the side.

Cook This Next

• Mushroom Thyme Pearl Couscous Pilaf – A flavorful grain dish with earthy mushrooms and fresh thyme.
• Oven Baked Chicken And Rice – Another comforting chicken and rice meal with minimal hands-on time.
• Honey Garlic Green Bean Chicken – A sweet and savory chicken dish with crisp green beans.

Bring It Home

This One-Pot Chicken and Rice Pilaf is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but flavorful enough to impress guests. Give yourself the gift of easy cooking without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s a kitchen keeper and a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy every bite!

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