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

Ingredients

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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