One Pan Green Chicken and Rice

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that brings together vibrant flavors and a bit of nostalgia all in one. The One Pan Green Chicken and Rice quickly became a go-to meal in my kitchen, especially those busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Picture this: you come home after a long day, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That’s where this recipe shines—one pan, minimal cleanup, and a delightful combination of juicy chicken, aromatic herbs, and fluffy rice.

As I was experimenting with different flavor profiles, I stumbled upon the idea of a green sauce packed with fresh ingredients like cilantro, garlic, and jalapeno. It just clicked! Not only does it add a punch of flavor, but it also brings a beautiful color to the dish that makes it visually appealing. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some greens, which is always a win in my book.

This dish has a remarkable ability to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The rich, savory notes of the chicken blend perfectly with the spice of the jalapeno and the freshness of the lime juice. I love garnishing with creamy avocado and a dollop of sour cream to balance the flavors, making each bite a little piece of heaven. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this One Pan Green Chicken and Rice will leave everyone satisfied and coming back for seconds!

What to Buy for One Pan Green Chicken and Rice

When it comes to creating the One Pan Green Chicken and Rice, the ingredients are paramount. I always choose fresh, high-quality components to make this dish shine. The combination of chicken, vibrant green sauce, and fluffy rice provides a well-rounded meal that feels hearty yet light. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – This is essential for sautéing the chicken and veggies, providing a delicious base flavor.
• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs – Tender and juicy, these are the perfect protein for this dish.
• Freshly ground salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the overall flavors.
• 3 cloves garlic – Adds depth and aroma to the green sauce.
• ½ white or yellow onion – This brings sweetness and savoriness to the sauce.
• 1 jalapeno – For those who love a little heat, this ingredient can be adjusted based on your spice preference.
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro – Adds brightness and a fresh flavor that makes this dish pop.
• 1 lime, juiced – The acid brightens the dish and enhances all the flavors.
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – A key component for cooking the rice and adding moisture.
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin – This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor to the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning the green sauce.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Adds a bit of spice and depth to the dish.
• 1 cup white basmati rice – The perfect rice for absorbing all the delicious flavors.
• 2 medium carrots, sliced – Adds sweetness and color to the dish.
• 1 red bell pepper, julienned – Offers crunch and a hint of sweetness.
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish – Because you can never have enough!
• Avocado slices – For a creamy texture that complements the dish.
• Jalapeno slices – For a garnish that packs a punch.
• Greek yogurt or sour cream + water – A drizzle of creaminess to finish off the dish.

Recipe Steps for One Pan Green Chicken and Rice

Get ready to enjoy a wonderfully easy cooking experience with the One Pan Green Chicken and Rice. This recipe is all about simplicity, but it yields incredible flavors that will impress anyone lucky enough to share a meal with you. Let’s dive into these straightforward steps!

1. First, let’s make the green sauce. In a large, high-powered blender or food processor, add in garlic, onion, jalapeno, cilantro, fresh lime juice, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Blend or process everything until it’s completely smooth. This sauce is where all the magic happens!
2. Next, it’s time to cook the chicken. Place a large, deep 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. If you don’t have a skillet, a large pot works just as well. Drizzle in olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add in the chicken thighs and season generously with freshly ground salt and pepper. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on one side until it’s beautifully browned, then flip and cook an additional 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and transfer it to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, with the residual oil, toss in the carrots and bell pepper. Sauté over medium heat for a few minutes, allowing them to soak in the flavors left in the pan. You want them to get a little tender but not mushy!
4. Slowly pour in the green sauce you made earlier, bringing it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic starts to happen. Fold in the rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the sauce. It’s crucial to mix well so that the rice absorbs all those incredible flavors.
5. Now, nestle the browned chicken pieces on top of the rice. Make sure they’re partly submerged in the sauce for maximum flavor. Once everything is looking good, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 20 to 25 minutes.
6. After about 20 to 25 minutes, most of the liquid should be absorbed, and the rice should be tender. This is your cue to serve! Scoop out portions right away while it’s hot, and garnish with fresh cilantro, jalapeno slices, avocado slices, and a drizzle of Greek yogurt or sour cream.

Enjoy your One Pan Green Chicken and Rice experience!

Change It Up

There are so many ways you can customize the One Pan Green Chicken and Rice to make it your own! Here are some suggestions:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheating in the microwave will keep it delicious!
• Freezing: You can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve the dish with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Vegetable variations: Feel free to use any seasonal veggies you have on hand. Zucchini, corn, or peas can be great additions!
• Lower-carb option: For a lower-carb dish, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice. The flavor will still shine through!
• Herb variations: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can try parsley or even mint for a different twist.

What Goes Well With This One Pan Green Chicken and Rice

When it comes to serving the One Pan Green Chicken and Rice, there are plenty of delightful options to enhance your meal experience:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the dish. Think arugula, spinach, or mixed greens.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, can add a nice crunch and contrast to the dish.
• Grilled Corn: Sweet grilled corn on the cob pairs perfectly, adding a hint of sweetness that balances the savory chicken.
• Side of Beans: A side of black or pinto beans adds protein and fiber, making the meal more filling.
• Perfect for gatherings: This dish is ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a cozy date night at home!
• Leftover magic: Any leftovers can be transformed into a new dish by turning them into tacos or burritos the next day!

FAQ

Conclusion

The One Pan Green Chicken and Rice is a beautiful blend of flavors and simplicity, perfect for any weeknight dinner. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every bite as much as I do. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to gather around the table and share delicious moments with loved ones. So go ahead and make it tonight—you won’t be disappointed!

One Pan Green Chicken and Rice

The ultimate weeknight dinner, the One Pan Green Chicken and Rice is packed with flavors and made in just one pan! Juicy chicken thighs, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice come together for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4 servings

Calories 540 kcal

Equipment

• Blender
• Food Processor
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowl
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• Freshly ground salt and pepper
• 3 cloves garlic
• 0.5 white or yellow onion
• 1 jalapeno
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro
• 1 lime
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup white basmati rice
• 2 medium carrots
• 1 red bell pepper
• fresh cilantro for garnish
• avocado slices for garnish
• jalapeno slices for garnish
• Greek yogurt or sour cream for garnish

Instructions

 

• First, make the green sauce: In a large high powered blender or food processor, add in garlic, onion, jalapeno, cilantro, fresh lime juice, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Blend or process until completely smooth. Set aside.
• Place a large deep 10 inch skillet over medium high heat. Add in olive oil. Once hot, add in chicken thighs and season generously with freshly ground salt and pepper. Cook until browned 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook an additional 4-5 minutes. Remove from pan and transfer to a plate.
• In the same skillet, add carrots and bell peppers. Sauté over medium heat for a few minutes to absorb pan flavors.
• Slowly pour in the green sauce, bring to a simmer then fold in the rice, making sure it is evenly distributed in the pan. Add the browned chicken on top and nestle them into the sauce a bit. Once sauce is simmering, reduce heat to low, cover the skillet immediately and cook for 20-25 minutes.
• After 20-25 minutes, most of the liquid should be absorbed and the rice should be cooked. Serve immediately. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeno slices, avocado slices and a drizzle of sour cream if you’d like.

Notes

• Tip 1: If you don't like spicy dishes, then feel free to take out the seeds of the jalapeno.
• Tip 2: Make sure you use white basmati or jasmine rice. Brown rice will take too long to cook.
• Tip 3: Feel free to switch up the veggies based on what you have in your fridge.

Keyword Easy Chicken Recipes, healthy chicken dinner, Mexican Chicken Rice, One Pan Chicken

Previous PostMiddle Eastern Roasted Chicken Potatoes

Next Post Mexican Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Meet Bella Banks

I’m the one who makes sure we’re having fun while we work. I love the communal aspect of cooking seven friends in a kitchen can be chaotic, but it’s the best kind of chaos! I cook everything alongside the girls, and I’m often the one setting the table and making sure the “vibe” is right for our photos. I believe that any recipe, no matter how simple or complex, is a celebration.