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Chicken Thighs and Rice

One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Rice: Comfort in Every Bite

This One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Rice recipe is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken thighs with flavorful garlic rice, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless Chicken Thighs Juicy protein source; skin-on adds richness and flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor; adjust as needed to your taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds heat; can be replaced with other spices for different flavor profiles.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Provides smokiness and color; smoked paprika intensifies the flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Ideal for searing chicken; vegetable oil is a suitable substitute.
For the Rice
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds creaminess and richness to the rice; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup Onion (Yellow or White) Base flavor for the rice; shallots offer a milder alternative.
  • 3 cloves Fresh Garlic Cloves Provides aromatic depth; garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
  • 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice The main carbohydrate; avoid substituting with quick-cooking rice for best texture.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Infuses flavor; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Enhances flavor depth; omit if using fresh onion.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Boosts garlic flavor; can be skipped if fresh garlic is included.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Adds freshness and color; thyme or rosemary can be great alternatives.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat the boneless chicken thighs dry with paper towels, ensuring they will sear beautifully. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika—this adds layers of flavor. Set the seasoned chicken aside while you get your skillet ready.
  2. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken thighs, searing them for 4–5 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep it warm under foil while you prepare the rice.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter, letting it melt completely. Once melted, toss in the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring frequently. Now, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic aroma to fill your kitchen.
  4. Stir in the long-grain white rice, tossing it around in the butter and aromatics to lightly toast for about 1 minute. This step enhances the rice's flavor, making your One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Garlic Rice even more delicious. Ensure the rice grains are well-coated before moving on.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any flavorful browned bits. Then, sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, and fresh parsley, stirring everything together. This aromatic mixture creates a delightful base for your rice and chicken.
  6. Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, carefully nestling them into the garlic rice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, ensuring that the rice is evenly distributed around the chicken, and the flavorful broth begins to work its magic.
  7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on the time as you wait for the rice to become fluffy and the chicken to stay juicy. You'll know it’s done when the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  8. Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Garnish with extra fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Now it's time to serve your comforting One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Garlic Rice, perfect for gathering everyone at the table!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave for the best texture.

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