I still remember the first time I made this One Pot Chicken & Rice recipe—it was one of those chaotic nights when everything felt overwhelming. I had just gotten home late, exhausted, and the last thing I wanted to do was spend an hour cooking. But I also craved something warm, hearty, and comforting, like the meals my mom used to make. So, I threw some chicken, rice, and a few simple ingredients into a pot, hoping for the best.
The moment I lifted the lid, the rich aroma of garlic, herbs, and buttery rice filled my kitchen. It smelled like home. That first bite? Absolute heaven—tender chicken, fluffy rice, and the perfect balance of savory goodness. Since then, this dish has been my go-to for busy nights, lazy weekends, and whenever I need a little food hug.
Why You’ll Love This One Pot Chicken & Rice
- Effortless Cooking: Everything comes together in one pot, which means fewer dishes and minimal cleanup.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and soy sauce gives it an irresistible savory taste.
- Comforting & Hearty: It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.
- Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores well, making it ideal for leftovers.
Best One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe You Need
This is the ultimate weeknight dinner—easy, delicious, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something comforting, this recipe has your back.
Ingredients Notes
For Cooking the Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds a light richness and helps brown the chicken.
- 1 large onion, chopped – Brings a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – Because no dish is complete without that garlicky goodness!
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into ½-inch cubes – Ensures quick, even cooking.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick.
- ¾ teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors (half will be used later).
For the Rice:
- 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed – Keeps the grains light and fluffy.
- 1 ½ cups water – The perfect amount to cook the rice without making it mushy.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Adds a deep umami flavor.
For the Vegetables:
- 1 (10-ounce) bag frozen peas and carrots – Brings color, texture, and extra nutrients.
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
Optional Add-Ons
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
- A sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions for One Pot Chicken & Rice
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the chopped onions and cook until they turn soft and golden, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Pro Tip: Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it and stir frequently!
Cook the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the pot and season with Italian seasoning, black pepper, and half of the salt. Cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is mostly cooked through. It should be lightly golden but still tender.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook the chicken at this stage—it will continue cooking with the rice.
Toast the Rice
Stir in the rinsed basmati rice and let it cook with the chicken for about 2 minutes. This helps enhance the nutty flavor of the rice and keeps it from becoming too sticky.
Pro Tip: Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, preventing it from clumping together.
Add the Vegetables & Liquid
Pour in the frozen peas and carrots, followed by the soy sauce and remaining salt. Give everything a good stir, then pour the water over the top. Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Pro Tip: Keeping the lid on is key—don’t be tempted to peek!
Let It Steam & Fluff
Once the 15 minutes are up, remove the pot from the heat but keep the lid on. Let it sit for another 5-10 minutes. This extra step allows the steam to finish cooking the rice perfectly.
Fluff the rice with a fork, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm!
Storage and Serving
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm it in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture. Add a splash of water if needed.
Tips for Success
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning.
- Don’t skip the resting time after cooking—it makes a huge difference in texture.
- Add the veggies towards the end if using fresh ones to keep them crisp.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan before serving.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap rice for cauliflower rice and adjust the liquid accordingly.
What Others Are Saying About the Recipe
“My husband said this is the best chicken and rice dish he’s ever had—and he’s picky!”
“My kids actually finished their plates, and that never happens! This is going on repeat.”
“I made this for meal prep, and it reheated perfectly. So flavorful and easy!”
FAQs about One Pot Chicken & Rice
Can I use brown rice? Yes, but increase the cooking time to about 40 minutes and add an extra ½ cup of water.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot? Absolutely! Sauté the aromatics and chicken on “Sauté” mode, then add the remaining ingredients. Seal the lid and cook on “Manual” for 10 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.
What can I use instead of chicken? Try shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
In Conclusion of One Pot Chicken & Rice
This One Pot Chicken & Rice is the ultimate easy, delicious, and comforting meal. It’s proof that simple ingredients can create something truly magical. If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments—did you add your own twist? I’d love to hear it!
And don’t forget to pin this for later—you’ll definitely want to make it again!
