Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sizzling sound of chicken thighs hitting a hot skillet can instantly transform any evening into something special. I can still see the golden-brown crust forming, while the aroma of garlic and herbs fills the kitchen—a true sensory delight! Today, I’m excited to share my One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Rice recipe that marries convenience with incredible flavor. This comforting dish makes for a perfect weeknight meal, and its one-pot nature means less fuss and quick cleanup afterward. Plus, it’s easily customizable to match your taste preferences, whether you love a smoky paprika kick or want to amp up the veggies. Ready to bring warmth and joy to your dinner table with this delightful concoction? Let’s dive in! Why Will You Adore This Recipe? Simplicity at Its Best: You’ll love that this is a straightforward one-pan recipe, perfect for busy weeknights where time is short. Flavor-Packed Goodness: Each bite of seasoned chicken thighs nestled in buttery, garlic-infused rice brings a burst of mouthwatering flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Customizable to Your Taste: Whether you prefer skin-on chicken for rich flavor or want to sneak in some veggies like bell peppers or spinach, this dish can adapt to your desires. Minimal Cleanup Required: With everything cooked in one pot, you’ll rejoice in the ease of cleaning up afterward. Enjoy delicious food without the stress of a mountain of dishes. Perfect for Meal Prep: Cook a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers that stay tasty in the fridge for up to four days. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad or a refreshing Hawaiian Chicken Salad for a full meal! Chicken Thighs and Rice Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless Chicken Thighs – Juicy protein that holds flavor well; skin-on offers richness. • Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to your preference for tasting. • Black Pepper – Use freshly ground for depth and warmth. • Paprika – Adds mild smokiness and color; smoked paprika can deepen the flavor profile. • Olive Oil – Ideal for searing chicken; vegetable oil can be a good substitute. For the Rice • Unsalted Butter – Richness that enhances the rice; swap with olive oil for a dairy-free option. • Yellow/White Onion – Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed. • Fresh Garlic Cloves or Garlic Powder – Fresh is best for aroma, but garlic powder works in a pinch. • Long-Grain White Rice – The perfect base; avoid quick-cooking rice for texture. • Chicken Broth – Infuses flavor into the rice; opt for low-sodium to control salt intake. • Onion Powder – Optional, but adds extra flavor depth. • Garlic Powder – Use for additional garlicky goodness, but can be skipped if fresh garlic is used. • Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness and vision; substitute with cilantro for a unique twist. This ingredient list will guide you through making a delicious one-pan Chicken Thighs and Rice dish that could easily become a staple in your home! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Rice Step 1: Prepare Chicken Begin by patting the boneless chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Season them generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and paprika, coating each piece evenly. Let them sit while you heat a skillet, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to come to room temperature for more even cooking. Step 2: Sear Chicken In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs to the pan, avoiding overcrowding. Sear for about 4–5 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden-brown crust. Once nicely browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm while you prepare the rice. Step 3: Sauté Aromatics In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add unsalted butter. Once melted, add diced yellow or white onion, stirring frequently for approximately 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, toss in minced garlic and continue cooking for about 1 minute, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen and creating a perfect flavor base for the rice. Step 4: Toast Rice Now, stir in long-grain white rice, making sure it gets coated with the buttery mixture. Toast the rice for about 1 minute until it’s slightly translucent and begins to smell nutty. This crucial step enhances the flavor of the rice, setting the stage for the savory one-pan Chicken Thighs and Rice dish you are creating. Step 5: Combine Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any delicious browned bits. Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, and fresh parsley for added flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, ensuring it’s well combined. This broth will infuse the rice with rich flavor while the chicken simultaneously cooks. Step 6: Simmer Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the rice, ensuring they are partially submerged in the broth. Increase the heat to bring everything to a gentle boil, then cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed the broth. The chicken will finish cooking and remain juicy. Step 7: Rest & Serve After simmering, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes. This resting stage allows flavors to meld beautifully. Garnish your one-pan Chicken Thighs and Rice with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving it warm. Enjoy your comforting meal! What to Serve with One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Garlic Rice The rich, savory tones of this comforting dish create a perfect opportunity to build a full, satisfying meal experience. Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant veggie adds a fresh crunch, balancing the richness of the chicken and rice beautifully. A hint of lemon juice can elevate the flavors even more! Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish. It’s the perfect way to lighten up your meal. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread for dipping brings indulgent flavors to the table, making every bite an experience to savor. Plus, who doesn’t love a little extra garlic? Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots bring warmth and earthiness, complementing the chicken’s savory profile while adding a pop of color to your plate. Herbed Couscous: This fluffy side made with fresh herbs can soak up any leftover sauce, enhancing the overall meal essence while being easy to prepare. Red Wine: A glass of Merlot or Pinot Noir pairs harmoniously, enhancing the flavors of the chicken while adding a touch of sophistication to your dinner. Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note! This luscious dessert offers a rich, velvety finish after the comforting main course, making it a delightful conclusion. Storage Tips for Chicken Thighs and Rice Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure the dish cools to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: Portion out chicken thighs and rice into airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy identification later. Reheating: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth to keep the rice moist while reheating. Serving Again: Enjoy as a quick meal when you want comfort food in a flash; just remember to check the temperature reaches 165°F for safety! Chicken Thighs and Rice Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful one-pan dish to your taste and dietary needs! Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with more olive oil to keep it creamy without the dairy. Vegetable-Packed: Toss in bite-sized veggies like peas, bell peppers, or spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition and color. Brown Rice: Use brown rice for a fiber boost; just remember to increase the liquid and extend cooking time. Spicy Twist: For a hint of heat, sprinkle in some cayenne or utilize spicy paprika to shake things up. Citrus Zest: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest at the end for a refreshing lift and tangy brightness to the dish. Herb Fusion: Experiment by substituting fresh parsley with cilantro or basil for a different herbaceous touch. Meat Variation: Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or even tender chicken breasts; adjust the cooking time accordingly for best results. Savory Broth: Enhance the flavor by using homemade chicken broth or a splash of white wine in place of broth for a more robust taste. For more delicious recipes, check out my popular Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or try these mouthwatering Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches that are sure to please your family! Expert Tips for One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Rice Choose Chicken Wisely: Opt for skin-on chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture. If using skinless, monitor cooking time to avoid dryness. Proper Rice Selection: Stick to long-grain white rice for the best texture and flavor absorption. Quick-cooking varieties won’t yield the same delightful result. Check Liquid Levels: During simmering, check for doneness; add a splash of warm broth if the rice absorbs too much liquid before cooking fully. Vegetable Additions: For extra nutrition, toss in chopped bell peppers or spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking to enhance color and flavor without overwhelming the dish. Searing Technique: When searing chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure a proper crust forms. Cook in batches if needed for even browning. Resting Period Matters: Allow the dish to rest after cooking; this helps the flavors meld and keeps the chicken juicy while the rice finishes absorbing steam. Make Ahead Options These One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Rice are ideal for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can season the chicken thighs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can prepare the sautéed aromatics (onion and garlic) and cook the rice up to 3 days ahead, storing them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the aromatics, add the rice, and nestle the marinated chicken thighs into the mix. Add chicken broth, cover, and simmer according to the original recipe for delicious results with minimal effort! Enjoy a comforting meal made simple! One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Rice Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best chicken thighs for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting chicken thighs, look for pieces that are plump with a nice, even shape. If you’re using skin-on thighs, check for a smooth, unblemished skin without any dark spots—this generally indicates freshness. I often recommend choosing free-range or organic options for better flavor. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze the portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Just remember to label them with the date for convenience! Can I freeze this recipe for later? Definitely! To freeze, portion the chicken thighs and rice into airtight freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. This will help maintain texture and flavor. When ready to enjoy, thaw the portions in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently—adding a splash of broth will help keep the rice fluffy. What if my rice isn’t cooking properly? If you find the rice isn’t cooking as expected, check the liquid levels. If it seems too dry, add a splash of warm chicken broth and cover the skillet again to create steam. This should help the rice finish cooking. Remember, long-grain white rice typically requires around 20-25 minutes, but the exact time can vary depending on your stovetop. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Yes, definitely! If you have allergies, be cautious with ingredients like chicken broth, ensuring it’s free from any allergens. For those with lactose intolerance, you can substitute unsalted butter with olive oil. If you’re cooking for pets, this dish isn’t suitable for them since it contains seasoning and fat levels that aren’t ideal in their diets. Can I customize the vegetables in this dish? The more the merrier! Feel free to incorporate diced vegetables towards the last 10 minutes of cooking—like bell peppers, peas, or spinach for a nutrition boost. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, adding them after the rice has simmered for about 15 minutes to avoid overcooking. One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Rice for Effortless Weeknight Dinners A delicious and comforting One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Rice recipe that combines convenience and incredible flavor for weeknight dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 420 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Boneless Chicken Thighs Juicy protein that holds flavor well; skin-on offers richness.1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor; adjust to your preference.1 teaspoon Black Pepper Use freshly ground for depth and warmth.1 teaspoon Paprika Adds mild smokiness and color.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Ideal for searing chicken.For the Rice2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Richness that enhances the rice.1 medium Yellow/White Onion Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.3 cloves Fresh Garlic Cloves Fresh is best for aroma.1.5 cups Long-Grain White Rice The perfect base; avoid quick-cooking rice.3 cups Chicken Broth Infuses flavor into the rice.1 teaspoon Onion Powder Optional, but adds extra flavor depth.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Use for additional garlicky goodness.2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Adds freshness and vision. Equipment Large Skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPat the boneless chicken thighs dry and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear the chicken thighs for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden-brown.Reduce heat and melt unsalted butter in the skillet, then add diced onion and sauté until softened.Stir in long-grain white rice and toast for about 1 minute.Add chicken broth and other seasonings; bring to a gentle simmer.Nestle the seared chicken back in, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes.Let the skillet sit covered for 5 minutes before serving, garnishing with parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 3mg NotesThis dish can be customized with different vegetables and flavors based on your preferences, and it's perfect for meal prep. Enjoy delicious food without the stress of a mountain of dishes. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
