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Chicken Thighs and Rice

Savory Chicken Thighs and Rice for Cozy Family Dinners

Delight in comforting Chicken Thighs and Rice, a one-pan meal perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless Chicken Thighs Juicy protein source; use either skin-on or skinless based on your preference.
  • to taste Salt Enhances flavor; adjust to taste for a perfectly seasoned dish.
  • to taste Black Pepper Adds warmth and depth; feel free to increase for a little extra kick.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Provides color and a subtle smoky flavor; substitute with smoked paprika for added depth.
For the Rice
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil For searing the chicken; a healthy fat choice, but any cooking oil works.
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Adds richness to the rice; swap with margarine or additional olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup Yellow or White Onion A base flavor; shallots can also be used as a substitute.
  • 3 cloves Fresh Garlic Cloves Imparts aromatic flavor; garlic powder is a good alternative if fresh isn't available.
  • 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice The dish's main carbohydrate; avoid quick-cooking rice to prevent mushiness.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Provides moisture and enhances flavor; vegetable broth can work for a vegetarian twist.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Enhances the onion flavor; omit if you're using fresh onion already.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Enhances garlic flavor; skip if fresh garlic is included.
For the Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley For seasoning and garnish; can swap with thyme or rosemary for a different herbal note.

Equipment

  • Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by patting the boneless chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika, ensuring an even coating for maximum flavor.
  2. In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat and lay the seasoned chicken thighs in the hot oil, searing them for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
  3. Reduce heat to medium; add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add 1 cup of long-grain white rice, stirring to coat the grains. Toast lightly for about 1 minute.
  5. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while scraping up browned bits from the pan. Add onion powder, garlic powder, and half of the fresh parsley. Nestle the chicken back into the rice mixture. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes.
  6. Let rest covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and sprinkle the remaining fresh parsley on top before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This dish can be customized with seasonal veggies or spices. Perfect for family dinners.

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