DINNER

Delicious One Pan Chicken Rice for Cozy Dinners

by basmer

25 de February de 2026

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One Pan Chicken Rice is the ultimate comfort food that has saved my weeknights. This hearty, savory dish features seasoned chicken thighs nestled in a fluffy bed of mirepoix rice. It’s a simple chicken and rice in one pan that not only satisfies but also brings the family together around the dinner table. The two-temperature baking method ensures perfectly cooked chicken and tender, never-mushy rice. Ready to learn how to make one pan chicken rice? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Chicken Rice

This dish isn’t just about convenience; it’s packed with flavor and versatility. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this one pan chicken rice recipe:

Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
All-in-one dish means minimal cleanup.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or herbs.
Delicious leftovers, perfect for meal prep.
Comforting and filling, great for the whole family.
Healthy one pan chicken and rice options are available.

This one pot chicken and rice dish not only delights the palate but also fits well within a gluten-free diet, making it an excellent choice for everyone!

Ingredients for One Pan Chicken Rice

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons butter (divided use)
1½ cups (packed) mirepoix (frozen or fresh)
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1½ cups long grain white rice (NOT parboiled)
3 cups low sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
salt & pepper (to taste)
2 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
2 teaspoons seasoning of choice (garlic herb or buttery steakhouse)

How to Make One Pan Chicken Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat oven to 350 degrees F. This recipe works best in a ~3.5 quart oven safe pan or braiser with a lid.
Step 2: Place your pan over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 tablespoon butter to melt, then cook the mirepoix and minced garlic for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Stir in the rice and cook for one minute.
Step 4: Stir in the chicken broth and Italian seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste. Take off the heat.
Step 5: Rub the chicken thighs with seasoning and nestle on top of the rice.
Step 6: Cover and bake on the middle rack for 30 minutes. Without opening, increase oven temperature to 400F and bake for 10 more minutes.
Step 7: Uncover and gently fluff/stir the rice around the chicken thighs. Dot chicken and rice with the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Continue baking on the upper middle rack at 400F for 5-8 minutes, uncovered, until rice is tender and chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F.
Step 8: Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Perfect One Pan Chicken Rice

Keep these in mind:

Use a good quality chicken broth for enhanced flavor. Learn more about making homemade broth.
For extra moisture, add a splash of white wine to the broth.
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
This dish can be made gluten-free by ensuring your broth is labeled as such.
Experiment with different herbs to suit your taste.

Best Ways to Serve One Pan Chicken Rice

To elevate your one dish chicken rice meal, consider these serving suggestions:

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
Pair with a light salad to balance the meal.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

How to Store and Reheat One Pan Chicken Rice

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a quick one pan chicken rice dinner throughout the week. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Chicken Rice

What’s the secret to perfect One Pan Chicken Rice?

The secret lies in the two-temperature baking method. This ensures the chicken cooks perfectly while the rice absorbs all the flavorful broth, giving you a delicious one skillet chicken rice dish.

Can I make One Pan Chicken Rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just follow the cooking instructions, and bake it fresh when you’re ready for a quick one pan chicken rice dinner.

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pan Chicken Rice?

Measure your liquid accurately to prevent mushy rice. Additionally, avoid opening the oven too often, as this can disrupt the cooking process. Follow the one pan chicken rice cooking time closely for best results.

Variations of One Pan Chicken Rice You Can Try

Feel free to customize your one pan chicken rice with these variations:

Add seasonal vegetables like peas or bell peppers for a one pan chicken rice with vegetables.
Experiment with different seasonings or marinades for the chicken thighs.
Use brown rice for a healthier option, keeping in mind that it may alter the cooking time.
Try adding nuts or dried fruits for an unexpected twist in flavors.

Each variation can enhance your dish while keeping the essence of comfort food intact. Enjoy your cooking adventure!