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One-Pot Chicken with Brown Rice

★★★★★ 5.0 (13 reviews)

This easy, comforting meal brings tender chicken and wholesome brown rice together in one pot for minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s packed with flavor and ready in under an hour.

◷1 hr 30 minTotal Time

♜4Servings

▥HardDifficulty

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Ingredients

4servings

Instructions

Brown Chicken and Saut Veggies

Start by heating some oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot. Cook it until it’s nicely browned on both sides, which should take about 10 to 12 minutes. Next, toss in the chopped onion and celery. Lower the heat to low, cover the pot, and let everything cook together for about 20 minutes.

Simmer Rice with Vegetables

After that, pour in the water along with the carrots and a bay leaf. Stir in the rice and season with a bit more salt and pepper. Turn the heat back up until it comes to a boil, then reduce it to low again. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid — this usually takes around 40 to 45 minutes.

Let It Rest

Once it’s done, take the pot off the heat and let it sit, still covered, for about 10 minutes. This helps everything finish cooking and settle before you dig in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a perfect weeknight meal because it’s easy to make and requires only one pot, which means less cleanup. The brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying option. It’s a comforting, all-in-one meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added color and nutrition. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette also pairs well to balance the richness of the chicken and rice.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep the rice moist. This meal also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.