When it comes to easy weeknight dinners, nothing beats the convenience of a one-pan meal. This One Pan Chicken and Rice is not only simple to prepare, but it also combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant spinach, all bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a delicious dinner without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Let’s dive into why this dish has become a staple in my kitchen!
Why This One Pan Chicken and Rice Stands Out
This One Pan Chicken and Rice recipe is a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. The chicken is seasoned to perfection, while the rice absorbs the savory essence of chicken broth, garlic, and Italian spices. The addition of fresh spinach not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the nutritional profile of the dish. Plus, the whole thing is cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
What You’ll Gather
- 1 lb chicken breast – Cut into two-inch thick pieces for even cooking.
- 1 tsp sea salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 tsp pepper – Adds a touch of heat.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – Infuses the dish with herby goodness.
- 1 tsp paprika – Provides a smoky undertone.
- 1 tsp onion powder – Gives a sweet, aromatic flavor.
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter – For sautéing and richness.
- 3-4 cloves garlic – Minced, for a fragrant kick.
- 1 cup long grain white rice – The base of the dish.
- 2 cups chicken broth – We use low sodium for better control over saltiness.
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach – Chopped, for added nutrition.
- 2 oz freshly grated parmesan cheese – To finish with a creamy, cheesy touch.
Gear Checklist
- Large skillet or pan – Essential for cooking everything in one place.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring and mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure correct ingredient amounts.
- Knife and cutting board – For chopping your ingredients.
- Grater – For grating the parmesan cheese.
One Pan Chicken and Rice Made Stepwise
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with sea salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and onion powder. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Add the long grain white rice to the skillet and stir well to coat in the buttery garlic mixture. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Step 6: Return the Chicken
Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 7: Stir in the Spinach
Once the rice is tender, add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts. If desired, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top and allow it to melt slightly.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with additional parmesan if desired. This One Pan Chicken and Rice is sure to become a family favorite!
Swap Guide
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
- Quinoa can replace rice for a gluten-free option.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted for chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
- Kale or Swiss chard can be used in place of spinach for a different green.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it doesn’t dry out. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F).
- Rice sticking: Stir the rice well after adding it to the pan and ensure you use enough liquid to cook it properly.
- Garlic burning: Sauté the garlic quickly over medium heat and watch it closely; it can turn bitter if burned.
- Not enough seasoning: Ensure to taste and adjust seasoning before serving to enhance the flavors.
Prep Ahead & Store
This One Pan Chicken and Rice dish can be prepped in advance for an easy dinner. Here’s how:
- Prep the chicken: Season and cut the chicken ahead of time, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
- Cooked leftovers: Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep the rice moist.
One Pan Chicken and Rice Q&A
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes.
What can I serve with this dish?
This One Pan Chicken and Rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for extra nutrients.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking for an extra kick!
Bring It Home
The beauty of this One Pan Chicken and Rice is not just in its simplicity but in its adaptability. You can easily modify it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. This dish will be a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Enjoy the delightful flavors of this hearty meal, and savor the satisfaction of a delicious dinner with minimal cleanup!
One Pan Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with sea salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and onion powder. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the long grain white rice to the skillet and stir well to coat in the buttery garlic mixture. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Once the rice is tender, add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts. If desired, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top and allow it to melt slightly.
- Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Quinoa can replace rice for a gluten-free option.
- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
