Easy Chicken and Rice

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Easy Chicken and Rice recipe, a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Featuring juicy, golden-brown chicken thighs nestled in a bed of aromatic, perfectly seasoned rice, this dish blends simplicity with sensational flavor. Infused with the warmth of paprika, garlic, and thyme, every bite is hearty and satisfying, while frozen peas add a pop of color and nutrition. Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is easy to follow, uses pantry staples like chicken broth and long-grain white rice, and minimizes cleanup thanks to its one-skillet preparation. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of brightness, and serve this flavorful meal straight from the pot for maximum comfort and convenience.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
• 0.5 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.

Step 2

Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add olive oil.

Step 3

Place the chicken thighs skin-side down into the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Stir in the rice, ensuring it gets coated in the oil and spices, and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the grains slightly.

Step 6

Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Nestle the seared chicken thighs into the rice mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover with a lid and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).

Step 8

In the final 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the frozen peas over the rice. Cover and allow them to cook through.

Step 9

Once done, remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	924.4 grams (924.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	681

Total Fat 29.40g	38%
Saturated Fat 4.70g	24%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3488mg	152%
Total Carbohydrate 85.80g	31%
Dietary Fiber 8.60g	31%
Total Sugars 10.70g
Protein 18.80g	38%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 150mg	12%
Iron 7mg	39%
Potassium 1012mg	22%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 38.7%

Protein: 11.0%

Carbs: 50.2%