Enjoy the simplicity of this One Pot Chicken and Rice, a savory blend of seasoned chicken thighs and aromatic basmati or white rice. Easy to prepare and loaded with flavors, this dish stands out on its own or pairs wonderfully with your favorite vegetables and salads for a fulfilling meal.
Combine paprika, coriander powder, ginger, garlic, onion, and black pepper powder, along with a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix well to blend all the spices together.
To Season the Chicken
Generously coat the chicken thighs with the prepared seasoning mix, ensuring all sides are evenly covered. Reserve a bit of the seasoning (about ⅙) for later, to be added during the rice preparation.
After seasoning, let the chicken thighs rest for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
To Prep Chicken and Rice
While the chicken rests, rinse the rice in clean water 2 to 3 times, until the water runs clear. Set aside.
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and fry for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Note: It's okay if the chicken is only partially cooked at this stage, as it will cook further with the rice.
Remove the seared chicken thighs from the oil and set them aside. Also, make sure to save any juices released from the chicken during searing for later use.
In the same pan, add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cumin seeds, onion, and garlic. Sauté until they turn aromatic.
Add the reserved seasoning powder to the pan and sauté until the raw aroma fades away, ensuring the spices are well-integrated and fragrant.
Add the chicken broth to the pan, stirring thoroughly to combine. Heat until the mixture reaches a rolling boil.
Next, add the rinsed Basmati rice into the pan, blending it evenly with the mixture. Cook until it comes to a full boil.
Once the rice starts boiling, carefully lay the browned chicken thighs on top, and drizzle over the reserved chicken juices.
Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until both the rice and chicken are fully cooked through.
Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Optionally, garnish with coriander, parsley, or mint leaves. Your flavor-packed Chicken and Rice is now ready to enjoy!
To Serve
Enjoy this savory Chicken and Rice as a standalone dish or elevate it with your preferred side for a truly satisfying meal experience.
Notes
Here are some key tips to perfect your Chicken and Rice:
Rice Selection: Long-grain rice like Basmati is ideal for its aromatic fragrance and fluffy texture. However, white, jasmine, or even brown rice can be used as alternatives.
Rice to Liquid Ratio: Pay attention to the ratio of rice to liquid (like broth or water). Too much liquid can make the rice mushy, while too little can lead to undercooked rice.
Chicken Choices: Opt for bone-in, skinless chicken thighs for their moisture and taste. Boneless thighs are a good alternative. If opting for chicken breast, remember to adjust the cooking time as it cooks faster and can dry out, especially after searing and then cooking in a pot.
Saute Aromatics: Briefly sauté the onions, garlic, and other aromatics before adding the rice. This step intensifies their flavors and infuses the rice with more depth.
Searing Chicken: Ensure the chicken is properly seared to a golden brown before adding it to the rice. This caramelization adds a rich flavor to the overall dish.
Simmer and Cook: After bringing the rice to a boil, add the seared chicken and then lower the heat to the minimum. Cooking on a low setting with the lid on ensures even cooking of both chicken and rice.
Checking for Doneness: Test the rice for doneness before turning off the heat. If it's still too firm, add a little more liquid and continue cooking for a few minutes.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A little extra salt, pepper, or spice can make a big difference.
Herb Infusion: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the cooking process for an extra layer of flavor.
Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Resting Time: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring the meat is moist and flavorful.