One-Pot Chicken and Rice — The Ultimate Comfort Meal Recipe

Introduction

This One-Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice, it delivers rich flavors with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 2 cups basmati rice, rinsed
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden and soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the minced garlic, cumin powder, and turmeric. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Step 3: Add the cubed chicken breasts to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the rinsed basmati rice, coating each grain in the spices and oil for a minute to enhance flavor.
5. Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
6. Step 6: Add the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork.
7. Step 7: Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the spices in the oil for an additional minute before adding garlic.
• Feel free to substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
• Add chopped bell peppers or carrots along with the onions for more vegetables.
• Use brown rice instead of basmati, but increase simmering time accordingly.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and add more moisture and flavor. Adjust cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Is it necessary to rinse the basmati rice?

Rinsing basmati rice removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky, resulting in fluffier grains. It is recommended but optional.

One-Pot Chicken and Rice — The Ultimate Comfort Meal Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 104 reviews

This One-Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is the ultimate comfort meal combining tender chicken, fragrant basmati rice, and a blend of aromatic spices. It’s an easy, flavorful dish that cooks all in one pot, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any time.

• Author: Leo
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Indian-inspired

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 2 cups basmati rice, rinsed
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat and sauté onion: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes golden and translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add garlic and spices: Add the minced garlic, 1 teaspoon cumin powder, and ½ teaspoon turmeric to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant, stirring continuously to blend the spices well.
3. Brown the chicken: Add the cubed chicken breasts to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked through.
4. Stir in the rice: Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pot and stir to coat the rice grains evenly with the spices and oil, mixing thoroughly with the chicken and onion mixture.
5. Add broth and simmer: Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes, allowing the chicken and rice to cook through and absorb the flavors.
6. Add peas: About 5 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas. Cover again and cook until the peas are heated through and tender.
7. Fluff and garnish: Remove the pot from heat and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving to add a bright touch and fresh aroma.

Notes

• Rinsing the basmati rice helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
• For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of saffron or a bay leaf while simmering.
• If you prefer, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
• For a spicier kick, add a chopped chili with the garlic and spices.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: one-pot chicken rice, comfort food, easy dinner, basmati rice recipe, chicken and peas, stovetop meal, simple chicken dinner