If you’re looking for a way to make dinner time less stressful, let me tell you about the magic of one pot dinners! They’re such a game-changer—seriously, who doesn’t love a meal that’s easy to whip up and requires minimal cleanup? I remember the first time I discovered one pot cooking; I was juggling a busy schedule and just wanted something simple yet delicious. This recipe for a chicken and rice one pot dinner quickly became a staple in my home. It’s not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on the ease and flavor of these one pot meals!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious one pot dinner. I promise, it’s super straightforward!

• 1 pound chicken breast, diced: Make sure your chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• 2 cups rice: I usually go for long-grain white rice, but feel free to use brown rice if you prefer—it just might need a bit more cooking time.
• 4 cups chicken broth: This adds so much flavor! You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped: Any color works! I love using a mix of red and green for that pop of color and sweetness.
• 1 onion, diced: A medium onion is perfect here. It adds depth and sweetness to the dish as it cooks.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic makes all the difference. Don’t skip this step—it fills your kitchen with an amazing aroma!
• 1 teaspoon paprika: This adds warmth and a hint of smokiness. You can also use smoked paprika if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Salt to taste: Just a pinch at first, you can always add more later.
• Pepper to taste: Freshly cracked black pepper is the way to go for the best flavor.

How to Prepare One Pot Dinners

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this easy and delicious one pot dinner! Follow these steps, and I promise you’ll be enjoying a fantastic meal in no time.

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by pouring a drizzle of oil into a large pot over medium heat. I usually go for olive oil, but vegetable oil can work just as well. Let it heat for about a minute until it’s shimmering but not smoking. This is the perfect temperature for cooking without burning anything!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to add the diced chicken. Carefully place it in the pot, making sure not to overcrowd it—this ensures that it browns nicely. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown. Trust me, that lovely color means flavor!

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once your chicken is browned, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these together for about 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. You’ll love how amazing your kitchen smells at this point!

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Next, stir in the chopped bell peppers and cook them for about 2–3 minutes. Just enough time for them to soften a bit! If you want to mix things up, feel free to add other veggies like peas or corn—this dish is super versatile!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Now, let’s bring everything together! Add the rice, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. It’s important to stir everything well so that the rice is evenly coated and the flavors mingle beautifully. This is where the magic happens!

Step 6: Bring to a Boil

Turn up the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Keep an eye on it, and as soon as it bubbles, you’ll know you’re on the right track. This step is crucial for cooking the rice perfectly!

Step 7: Simmer the Dish

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Here’s the trick: don’t lift the lid while it simmers! It needs about 20 minutes to cook through and absorb all those delicious flavors. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!

Step 8: Fluff and Serve

After the simmering time, carefully remove the lid. The rice should be tender and the chicken cooked through. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains—this gives it that perfect, light texture. Serve it hot, and for a little extra flair, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs on top. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Tips for Success

Here are some handy tips to ensure your one pot dinner turns out perfectly every time! I’ve learned a few things along the way that can save you from common pitfalls.

• Don’t overcrowd the pot: When cooking the chicken, make sure there’s enough space. If it’s too crowded, the chicken will steam instead of brown, and we all want that delicious golden color!
• Mind the simmer: Once you cover the pot to simmer, resist the urge to peek! Lifting the lid lets steam escape, which can affect cooking time and texture.
• Adjust the seasoning: Everyone’s taste is different, so feel free to tweak the salt and pepper to your liking. Start small and add more as needed. You can always add more, but it’s tough to fix an overly salty dish!
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and vegetables really enhance the flavors in this dish. If you can, go for fresh over dried or canned to elevate your meal!
• Experiment with veggies: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your vegetables! Adding in peas, corn, or even spinach can give your dish a lovely twist. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed for different veggies.
• Leftover magic: If you have leftovers, they make a great lunch! Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and when you reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a one pot dinner pro in no time! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I strive to give you the most accurate values, individual results may differ. Always consider checking the labels of your ingredients for precise information. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and remember that the true joy of food comes from the love you put into it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• One pot means less cleanup: Say goodbye to piles of dirty dishes! Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Healthy and satisfying: Packed with protein and veggies, this meal is both nutritious and filling, perfect for keeping you energized.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the veggies or spices according to your taste—this recipe is as flexible as you want it to be!

FAQs about One Pot Dinners

Got questions? No worries! Here are some common ones I hear about one pot dinners, and I’m here to help clear things up!

Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! This recipe is super versatile. You can swap the chicken for diced turkey, pork, or even beef. Just keep in mind that different meats might require slightly different cooking times, so be sure to check for doneness!

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Great question! To make this one pot dinner vegetarian, simply skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas for protein—yum!

What can I serve with one pot dinners?

One pot dinners are usually hearty enough to stand on their own, but if you want to add a little something extra, consider serving a simple side salad or some crusty bread. A light fruit dessert can also be a lovely way to finish off the meal!

If you have more questions or need tips, just drop me a line! I’m here to make your cooking experience as enjoyable as possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftover one pot dinner? No problem! Storing and reheating it is super easy, and I’ve got some tips to help you keep the flavors intact.

First, let your dish cool down to room temperature before storing it. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which can make the rice soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer your leftovers into an airtight container. This keeps them fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy your tasty leftovers, here’s how to reheat them:

• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it nice and moist!
• Stovetop: For an even better texture, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little chicken broth or water to the pan, stir occasionally, and heat until warmed through. This method helps revive the dish without drying it out.

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your one pot dinner again and again. Enjoy your delicious meal without any fuss!

For more delicious one pot recipes, check out this collection!

For tips on cooking chicken perfectly, visit Foodsafety.gov.

To learn more about the nutritional benefits of chicken, see this article on Healthline.

One Pot Dinners: 7 Easy Steps to a Stress-Free Meal

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

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Description

A simple and delicious one pot dinner that is easy to prepare and clean up.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 2 cups rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the bell peppers and cook for a few minutes.
5. Add rice, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.

Notes

• Make sure not to lift the lid while it simmers.
• You can add other vegetables like peas or corn for variety.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: one pot dinners, easy meals, chicken recipes, quick dinners