Tastiest Chicken with Rice Recipe

Jennifer Segal

16 May, 2024

Indulge in culinary bliss with our easy chicken with rice recipe. A one-pot wonder for delicious, hassle-free dining. Discover the joy of homemade perfection!

Chicken with Rice

Publisher: Crisp Recipe
Cuisine: American
Category: Main Dish
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 400 calories

Chicken with rice is a classic and versatile dish that has found its way into countless kitchens worldwide. Its appeal lies in the simplicity of ingredients and the delicious flavors that come together in a single pot. This dish often involves succulent chicken pieces paired with aromatic rice, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

The preparation typically begins with seasoning chicken thighs, preferably bone-in and skin-on, to enhance the overall taste. These are then seared to golden perfection in a hot pan, creating a flavorful base for the rest of the dish. The addition of diced onions, minced garlic, and vibrant bell peppers adds depth and freshness to the ensemble.

What truly sets this dish apart is the one-pot cooking method. After searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables, the rice is introduced to absorb the rich flavors already present in the pan. The chicken is nestled back into the mix, and the entire concoction is gently simmered in chicken broth until the rice is cooked to perfection. The result is a harmonious blend of tender chicken, aromatic rice, and savory goodness that permeates every bite.

This chicken with rice recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. It's a go-to option for home cooks seeking a hearty and delicious meal without an extensive list of ingredients or complicated steps. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight dinner or served on special occasions, chicken with rice is a timeless dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.

Recipe

Embark on a culinary journey with our mouthwatering Chicken with Rice recipe! Discover a symphony of flavors in this one-pot wonder. Let's cook up perfection together!

Ingredients

Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor)
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Method Instructions

Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened.
Add the chopped bell pepper and continue cooking for a few minutes until it's slightly tender.
Pour in the rice and stir to coat it with the flavors in the pan.
Place the seared chicken thighs back into the pan on top of the rice.
Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring it covers the rice and most of the chicken. Bring it to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
Check for seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.

Recipe Video

Chicken with Rice

This is a video about Chicken with Rice.

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Recipe Tags: Chicken with Rice, Chicken with Rice Recipe, Recipe

Servings

Serving chicken with rice is a delightful experience that allows you to present a wholesome and visually appealing dish. Here are some suggestions on how to serve it:

Plating: Begin by placing a generous portion of the chicken and rice in the center of each plate. The vibrant colors of the dish, with the golden chicken and assorted vegetables, make for an inviting presentation.
Garnish: Add a finishing touch by garnishing the dish with fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or cilantro. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes a burst of fresh flavor.
Side Dish: Consider serving a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. This complements the richness of the chicken and rice, providing a balance of textures and flavors.
Lemon Wedges: Place a few lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing a bit of lemon juice over the chicken just before eating can add a zesty element that brightens up the dish.
Family Style: If you're serving a group, opt for a family-style presentation. Place the entire pot of chicken and rice in the center of the table, allowing everyone to serve themselves. It fosters a communal dining experience.
Bread or Naan: Consider serving with a side of crusty bread or warm naan. These can be perfect for soaking up the savory juices and enhancing the overall dining experience.

Tips

Chicken Thighs: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor. The skin adds a delicious crispiness, and the bone enhances the overall taste.
Searing: Take the time to properly sear the chicken. This step locks in the juices and imparts a rich, caramelized flavor to both the chicken and the dish as a whole.
Aromatics: Don't rush the sautéing of onions and garlic. Allowing them to soften and release their flavors adds a aromatic depth to the dish.
Rice Selection: Choose long-grain white rice for a light and fluffy texture. Rinse the rice before adding it to the dish to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming too sticky.
Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences. Add a pinch of cayenne for a hint of heat or experiment with your favorite herbs to personalize the dish.
Chicken Broth: Use a good quality chicken broth or stock for added depth of flavor. If you prefer, you can also use vegetable broth as a substitute.
Simmering: Keep an eye on the liquid level while simmering. If needed, add a bit more broth to ensure the rice cooks evenly and remains moist.
Resting Time: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld, and it makes it easier to plate the dish without the rice falling apart.
Garnish: The final touch of fresh herbs not only enhances the appearance but also adds a burst of flavor. Consider using parsley, cilantro, or chives.
Accompaniments: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a citrusy kick, and consider pairing with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.

Ingredient Substitutes

If you find yourself missing an ingredient for the chicken with rice recipe, here are some possible substitutes:

Chicken Thighs: Substitute with chicken drumsticks or bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Long-Grain White Rice: Basmati rice or jasmine rice are good alternatives. Brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time.
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth is a suitable substitute. If you don't have broth, you can use water, but you may need to increase the seasoning to compensate for the loss of flavor.
Onion: Shallots or leeks can be used as a substitute for onions. Adjust quantities to your taste.
Bell Pepper: Use any color bell pepper you have available, or substitute with diced tomatoes for a slightly different flavor.
Paprika: Smoked paprika can be used for a different flavor profile. If you don't have paprika, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a mild heat.
Cumin: Ground coriander or chili powder can be used as a substitute for cumin.
Garlic: Garlic powder or pre-minced garlic can be used if fresh garlic is unavailable. Adjust the quantity based on your preference.
Olive Oil: Substitute with vegetable oil, canola oil, or any neutral cooking oil.
Fresh Herbs: If you don't have fresh herbs for garnish, dried herbs such as parsley or cilantro can be used. Reduce the quantity since dried herbs are more potent.

Remarks

As you savor the rich flavors of our Chicken with Rice, remember: every bite is a celebration of simple joys. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with warmth and delicious memories!