Print

Cozy Everything Will Be Okay Chicken and Rice Recipe Easy One Pot Hug Meal

chicken and rice recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

A warm, comforting one-pot chicken and rice dish that’s easy to make and perfect for busy nights. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts, fluffy rice, and savory herbs for a cozy meal that feels like a hug on a plate.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g), trimmed of excess fat
  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (300 g), rinsed well
  • 3 cups chicken broth (720 ml), preferably low sodium
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh leaves)
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Zest the lemon and set aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add garlic and thyme, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Push the onion mixture to the side and place chicken breasts in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until lightly golden but not fully cooked.
  4. Pour the rinsed rice evenly over the onions and chicken, then add the chicken broth. Stir gently to distribute ingredients evenly without disturbing the chicken. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Cover the pan tightly and reduce heat to low. Cook undisturbed for 18-20 minutes.
  6. Lift the lid carefully and scatter frozen peas over the rice. Cover again and cook for another 5 minutes until peas are heated and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove from heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter and lemon zest. Let sit, covered, for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
  8. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.

Notes

Rinse rice to remove excess starch for fluffier texture. Use a tight-fitting lid or foil to trap steam. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to ensure even rice texture. Adjust cooking time if using brown rice or chicken thighs. Add broth or water if rice is too firm after cooking. For a dairy-free version, omit butter or substitute with coconut oil or vegan margarine.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken and rice, one pot meal, comfort food, easy dinner, cozy recipe, quick chicken recipe, simple ingredients

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/cozy-everything-will-be-okay-chicken-and-rice-recipe-easy-one-pot-hug-meal/