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This one pot chicken and rice is the ultimate family comfort dish, bridging the gap between a hearty soup and creamy risotto. The tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice create a meal that's both satisfying and simple to prepare with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
I first made this dish during a particularly busy week when I needed something quick but satisfying. Now my family requests it almost weekly, especially during colder months when we crave something warm and filling without much fuss.
Ingredients
- Butter: Provides richness and depth to this dish making it truly comforting; use real butter for best results
- Long grain white rice: Specifically Lundberg White Jasmine Rice creates the perfect texture; avoid using minute rice
- Fresh carrots: Add sweetness and nutrition; look for firm, bright orange ones
- Chicken breasts: Provide lean protein; cut them small for even cooking
- Dried herbs and seasonings: Build flavor without extra chopping; use quality dried herbs for best results
- Chicken stock: Forms the flavorful base; homemade is wonderful but good quality store-bought works perfectly
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Melt butter over medium heat in a large soup pot. Add your carrots and season with seasoned salt and pepper. Cover and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots become tender. This initial sautéing builds the first layer of flavor for your dish.
- Toast the Rice and Aromatics:
- Add your rice, dried onions, and dried garlic to the pot with the carrots. Stir everything well to coat the rice in the butter. Continue stirring and cooking for one full minute, which helps develop a nutty flavor in the rice and activates the aromatics in the dried herbs.
- Begin the Simmer:
- Add the dried parsley and all the chicken stock, then increase heat to high. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring now and then.
- Add the Chicken:
- Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with seasoned salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. If needed, increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture back to a simmer. Reduce heat again to medium-low and continue cooking for 7 to 10 more minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice reaches al dente texture.
- Finish the Dish:
- Stir in the remaining butter and adjust seasoning if needed. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes off the heat. This resting time is crucial as it allows the dish to thicken slightly and for the flavors to meld together perfectly.
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The dried herbs might seem like a shortcut, but they actually work better than fresh in this recipe. I discovered this happy accident when I was out of fresh herbs one evening. The dried versions infuse the broth more thoroughly and create that classic comfort food flavor that reminds me of my grandmother's kitchen.
Rice Selection Matters
The rice you choose makes a tremendous difference in this recipe. Lundberg White Jasmine Rice is specifically recommended because it holds its shape beautifully while still becoming tender. Lower quality rice brands can quickly turn mushy, especially in a one pot dish like this. The distinct grains should remain separate while still being tender, creating that perfect balance between soup and risotto textures.
Chicken Cutting Technique
The recipe emphatically states to cut chicken into bite-sized pieces NOT HUNKS for good reason. Cutting the chicken into small, uniform pieces ensures it cooks through completely in the time it takes for the rice to finish cooking. When pieces are too large, you might end up with undercooked chicken or overcooked rice. Aim for pieces about half an inch in size for perfect results every time.
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Serving Suggestions
This dish shines when served in wide, shallow bowls that showcase the creamy texture. Consider adding a bright side salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. For an extra touch, offer toppings like fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of grated parmesan for those who eat dairy. The dish actually tastes better when warm rather than piping hot, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
Leftovers Magic
One of the best features of this recipe is how well it keeps. Store leftovers in glass containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavor actually improves overnight as the ingredients have time to meld together. When reheating, add a splash of extra broth or water as the rice will continue to absorb liquid. This makes it perfect for meal prepping lunches or having ready-to-go dinners during busy weeknights.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
Use good quality rice such as Lundberg White Jasmine Rice and avoid instant or Minute Rice. Also, stir occasionally while cooking to avoid overcooking the rice.
- → Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, pork, or even tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is properly cooked.
- → How do I thicken the dish if it's too soupy?
Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. The rice will absorb more liquid as it cools, naturally thickening the dish.
- → Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Let it cool, then store it in glass containers in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to serve.
- → What is the best way to season the chicken?
Season the chicken with homemade seasoned salt and pepper before adding it to the pot. This ensures the chicken is flavorful while blending with the rest of the dish.