If you have ever craved a comforting, satisfying meal that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen or a mountain of dirty dishes, you are about to fall in love with this One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe. It combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables all cooked together in a single pot, locking in every bit of flavor and making dinner a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a warm hug of a meal, this recipe brings together simple ingredients for a dish that’s rustic, creamy, and unbelievably delicious.

One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simplicity and the thoughtful combination of ingredients. Every component plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color, resulting in a balanced and inviting dish that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Provides lean, tender meat that soaks up all the seasonings beautifully.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for browning the chicken to create a rich base of flavor.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant kick that complements the chicken perfectly.
1 cup long grain white rice: Gives the dish its comforting, fluffy texture.
2 medium carrots, sliced: Injects natural sweetness and a subtle crunch.
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish light while enriching the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy, herbal note that elevates the whole dish.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice and warmth.
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice): Creates unmatched creaminess without heaviness.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Gives a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish.

How to Make One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add your diced boneless, skinless chicken breast and cook it for about 5 to 6 minutes until it’s lightly browned on all sides. This step seals in the juices and gives the chicken a lovely golden crust that will add beautiful flavor to the dish.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Next, stir in the finely chopped onion. Cook it for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to soften and become fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds. These aromatics awaken the senses and create a delicious foundation for the rice and chicken to mingle with.

Step 3: Add Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the rice, sliced carrots, chicken broth, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to your pot. Stir everything together until it’s evenly combined. This mixture is going to steam and simmer, absorbing all those incredible flavors while the rice cooks tender.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the pot to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover and let it gently simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The rice will soak up the broth, the carrots will soften, and the chicken will finish cooking, all blending into one harmonious dish.

Step 5: Finish with Creaminess

Finally, stir in the unsweetened almond milk and freshly chopped parsley. Let it simmer uncovered for another 3 to 4 minutes to allow the mixture to become luxuriously creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve warm, garnished with extra parsley if you like.

How to Serve One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can take this One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe from comforting to truly show-stopping. I love sprinkling a handful of chopped fresh parsley or even some chopped green onions on top for a burst of color and a lovely fresh flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can also add a surprising brightness.

Side Dishes

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to add a little variety, crisp roasted vegetables or a simple green salad are fantastic companions. A crusty piece of garlic bread or warm pita can also complement the creamy rice beautifully without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more festive touch, try serving this One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe in vibrant bowls or colorful plates to highlight its warm, inviting hues. Layering it with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream and a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a fun twist. You can even turn leftovers into stuffed peppers for a creative reuse that impresses family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The rice may soak up more liquid as it sits, so it’s normal if the texture is a bit softer when cold.

Freezing

This One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that the texture of the rice might change slightly after freezing, but the flavors will remain comforting and delicious.

Reheating

When ready to reheat, gently warm the dish on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the rice. Alternatively, microwave it covered, stirring occasionally, to ensure even heating. Adding fresh parsley right before serving helps refresh the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but it will require longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth and simmer time accordingly to ensure it’s fully cooked and tender.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, this One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe is fantastic for meal prepping because it reheats well and keeps its flavor. Just be sure to cool it down properly before storing to maintain the best texture and taste.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Definitely! You can swap chicken for turkey, shrimp, or even plant-based proteins like tofu. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.

What can I add to make it spicier?

If you love heat, try adding a pinch of red chili flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic. A splash of hot sauce before serving can also add that fiery kick without overpowering the dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. It’s a great option for those avoiding gluten but wanting a hearty, satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe is everything a cozy meal should be—simple, flavorful, and effortlessly comforting. With just one pot and a handful of ingredients, you get a dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to dinners!

One Pot Chicken & Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 5 reviews

This easy One Pot Chicken & Rice recipe is a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breast, aromatic vegetables, and fluffy rice cook together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. With fresh herbs and a creamy finish from almond milk, this gluten-free dish is both nutritious and delicious.

Author: Lena
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: One Pot Cooking, Simmering
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Aromatics

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Vegetables and Rice

1 cup long grain white rice
2 medium carrots, sliced

Liquids and Seasonings

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice

Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Cook Chicken: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until the chicken pieces are lightly browned on all sides and almost cooked through.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
Add Ingredients: Stir in the long grain white rice and sliced carrots. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, then add the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine the flavors evenly.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer gently for 18–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, until the rice is tender and the broth is fully absorbed.
Finish: Remove the lid and stir in the unsweetened almond milk and chopped fresh parsley. Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for another 3–4 minutes until the rice has a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Notes

For creamier texture, stir in the almond milk gradually and cook longer if needed.
Use gluten-free chicken broth to keep this dish gluten-free.
To add extra vegetables, consider adding peas or bell peppers during the simmer step.
Leftovers can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
This recipe is suitable for a gluten-free diet and can be adapted for dairy-free by using plant-based milk.