One Pan Chicken and Rice

Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with family, and one dish that brings everyone together is One Pan Chicken and Rice. I remember the first time I prepared this meal for my friends; it was a cozy evening filled with laughter and delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. This dish has a special place in my heart because it effortlessly combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables, all cooked together in one pan. The simplicity of this recipe makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without the hassle of doing dishes afterwards.

One Pan Chicken and Rice Shopping List

When it comes to creating a perfect One Pan Chicken and Rice, the ingredients play a crucial role. Each element complements the others, providing a harmonious balance of flavors. The key players in this dish include succulent chicken, aromatic garlic, and fluffy rice, all enhanced by a blend of spices. Together, they form a delicious one-pot meal that is both satisfying and nourishing.

• 1 ½ lb chicken breast, cut into two-inch pieces – This is the star of the dish, providing protein and a delicious base flavor.
• ½ – 1 tsp sea salt – Essential for enhancing the flavors of the chicken and rice.
• ½ tsp pepper – Adds a gentle kick to the dish.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings a wonderful aroma.
• 1 tsp paprika – Gives the dish a subtle smokiness and a pop of color.
• ½ tsp onion powder – Contributes depth to the flavor profile.
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, separated – Adds richness and helps in cooking the chicken.
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with an irresistible aroma.
• 1 cup long grain white rice – The perfect base that will absorb all the flavors.
• 2½ cups chicken broth, preferably low sodium – Keeps the rice moist and flavorful.
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped – Adds color and nutrients.
• 2 oz freshly grated parmesan cheese – A finishing touch that adds creaminess.

How to Assemble One Pan Chicken and Rice

The process of making One Pan Chicken and Rice is as satisfying as the final dish. I love watching everything come together in one pan, creating a beautiful and appetizing meal. Let’s take this step by step, so you can enjoy the delightful journey of cooking this dish.

1. Start by slicing the chicken breast lengthwise into about two-inch wide strips. It’s important to pound the chicken pieces into about three-quarters to one inch thickness to ensure even cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel for a nice sear.
2. Season the chicken generously on both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and paprika. This seasoning will penetrate the meat, ensuring it’s full of flavor.
3. Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat and melt two tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is sizzling, add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute, stirring constantly until fragrant. This is where the magic begins!
4. Add the seasoned chicken to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. Sear each side for about two minutes without touching it. This will give the chicken a nice golden crust. Once seared, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate, keeping in mind it will not be fully cooked yet.
5. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the pan. Now it’s time to add the rice. Cook it for about one to two minutes, stirring frequently to toast it slightly. This step enhances its flavor and prevents sticking.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and add the chopped spinach. Stir to combine everything well, letting the broth and rice meld together.
7. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the seared chicken back into the pan, laying it gently over the rice. Make sure the chicken isn’t fully submerged in the liquid to ensure even cooking.
8. Cover the pan and allow everything to simmer for about fifteen to twenty minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Be sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
9. Once cooked, push the chicken to the side and add the parmesan cheese, stirring it into the rice until it melts. This will create a creamy texture.
10. Serve your delicious One Pan Chicken and Rice topped with additional parmesan and freshly chopped parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Ways to Customize

There are so many delightful ways to customize One Pan Chicken and Rice to suit your taste! I love experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some tips to help you make this dish your own:

• Try Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Spice It Up: If you like a kick, add red pepper flakes or some hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for more nutrition.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, basil, or cilantro to switch up the flavor profile.
• Cheese Options: Instead of parmesan, try feta or mozzarella for a different taste.
• Broth Varieties: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or add coconut milk for a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving One Pan Chicken and Rice, the options are endless! Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

• Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm dish.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Grilled or roasted seasonal vegetables make a great side dish.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or even meal prep for busy weeks.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for about three to four days in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth to the rice to keep it moist.

FAQ

Conclusion

One Pan Chicken and Rice is a beloved recipe that beautifully combines flavors and convenience. It’s the perfect solution for busy nights, bringing comfort and satisfaction in every bite. I encourage you to try this dish soon; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

One Pan Chicken and Rice

The ultimate comfort food, One Pan Chicken and Rice is a delicious and easy weeknight dinner. This all-in-one dish features tender chicken, flavorful rice, and vibrant vegetables, all cooked together in one pan. Perfect for busy nights when you crave homemade goodness!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

• Grater
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lb chicken breast cut into two-inch pieces
• 0.5 tsp sea salt
• 0.5 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• 0.5 tsp onion powder
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter separated
• 3-4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 2.5 cups chicken broth we use low sodium
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach chopped
• 2 oz freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

 

• Slice the chicken lengthwise into about two-inch wide strips.
• Pound the chicken pieces into about three-quarters to one inch thickness.
• Pat dry with a paper towel and season on both sides with the salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and paprika.
• Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
• Melt two tablespoons of butter in the heated pan.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.
• Add the chicken to the heated pan and sear for about two minutes per side.
• Once the chicken is seared, remove from the pan and set aside on a plate.
• Add the remaining tablespoon of butter.
• Add the rice and cook to toast it slightly for about one to two minutes, stirring frequently.
• Add in the chicken broth and chopped spinach and stir to combine.
• Bring the rice and broth to a gentle boil.
• Reduce heat to medium-low/low and add the chicken back into the pan.
• Cover and allow it to simmer for about fifteen to twenty minutes or until all of the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
• Once the chicken and rice is cooked, push the chicken to the side to add the parmesan and stir it to melt into the rice.
• Serve topped with more parmesan and freshly chopped parsley!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about three to four days. When reheating, you may want to add an extra splash of broth to the rice.
• Freezing: To freeze, allow the chicken and rice to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze for up to three months.
• Steam Control: Once the lid is closed and the rice is cooking, try not to disturb it. The steam is needed to cook the rice and the chicken until both are done.
• Rice Types: Do not use brown rice in this recipe as it takes much longer to cook, resulting in dry chicken.
• Minute Rice Warning: Avoid any form of minute rice or quick-cooking rice as they will cook too quickly and result in mush.

Keyword Easy Chicken Recipes, One Pan Chicken and Rice, one pot meals, weeknight dinner ideas

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Meet Penny Porter

I bring the energy to our cooking sessions. I don’t have a “specialty” because I love it all I’m just as happy kneading dough as I am stirring a spicy curry. My favorite part of being on this team is the variety. One day we’re making pasta from scratch, and the next we’re grilling outdoors. I love the fast-paced creative process and am always the first one to grab an apron when a new idea pops up.