In the hustle and bustle of weeknight meals, finding a dish that checks all the boxes can sometimes feel like a little culinary crisis. Enter my One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Garlic Rice—a comforting, hearty meal that marries juicy chicken thighs and aromatic rice in a single skillet. This easy-to-follow recipe not only simplifies dinner prep, but it also offers unmatched customization possibilities to please every palate. With tender chicken and fluffy rice simmering in a savory garlic broth, you’ll find yourself transporting tired taste buds to a place of cozy satisfaction. Plus, the minimal cleanup means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying what really matters. Ready to dive into this delicious adventure?

Why make Chicken Thighs and Rice?

Convenience: This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, as it combines all cooking in a single skillet for minimal cleanup.

Flavorful Depth: The buttery garlic broth infuses the rice with mouthwatering taste while the seared chicken thighs remain juicy and tender.

Customizable: Whether you prefer adding veggies or swapping proteins, this recipe easily adapts to suit your family’s favorites.

Comforting Aroma: The scent of garlic and herbs will envelop your kitchen, creating a warming atmosphere that invites everyone to the table.

Crowd-Pleasing: With its delightful blend of textures and flavors, this dish is sure to impress guests or satisfy picky eaters alike.

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Honey Pepper Chicken or Garlic Chicken Gnocchi!

Chicken Thighs and Rice Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this cozy, savory dish.

For the Chicken

Boneless Chicken Thighs – The main protein providing juiciness and flavor; can use chicken breasts (reduce cook time).
Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste based on dietary needs.
Black Pepper – Adds mild heat and depth.
Paprika – For a hint of smokiness and color.
Olive Oil – Used for searing chicken, adds healthy fats.

For the Rice

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the rice.
Yellow or White Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
Fresh Garlic Cloves – Essential for that bold, aromatic flavor; garlic powder can serve as a substitute if fresh is unavailable.
Long-Grain White Rice – The main carbohydrate; fluffy texture when cooked properly, but brown rice can be used (increase broth and simmer time).
Chicken Broth – Adds depth and flavor to the rice; vegetable broth for a lighter version.

For Seasoning

Onion Powder – Boosts onion flavor throughout the dish.
Garlic Powder – Enhances garlic flavor; useful if fresh is not on hand.
Fresh Parsley – Freshens and brightens the dish; used as a garnish.

Now, let’s get cooking! Your tasty Chicken Thighs and Rice are just a few steps away.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Thighs and Rice

Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by patting the boneless chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This combination will enhance the flavors of your Chicken Thighs and Rice, giving the dish a delightful depth. Let the seasoned chicken sit while you prepare your skillet.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs to the pan and sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbling, add one diced yellow or white onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion is softened and translucent. Then, add 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Toast the Rice
Stir in 1 cup of long-grain white rice into the pan, ensuring it is well-coated in the buttery mixture. Let the rice lightly toast for about 1 minute, stirring frequently. This step deepens the flavor of your Chicken Thighs and Rice, creating a deliciously aromatic base for the dish.

Step 5: Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor. Mix in ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and a handful of chopped fresh parsley. These ingredients will elevate the taste of the rice, enveloping it in savory goodness.

Step 6: Simmer and Cook
Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, nestling them into the rice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet tightly. Allow it to simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is fluffy and the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once the cooking time is up, remove the skillet from heat and let it rest, covered, for about 5 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, garnish your Chicken Thighs and Rice with extra fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy this comforting one-pan meal with your loved ones!

What to Serve with One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Garlic Rice

A delightful meal deserves equally delicious accompaniments that elevate the dining experience and tantalize the taste buds.

Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic and butter add a pop of color and a fresh crunch. They balance the rich flavors of the chicken beautifully, creating a lovely contrast on the plate.
Crispy Roasted Broccoli: Charred and crispy broccoli drizzled with olive oil offers a satisfying crunch and earthiness, enhancing the comfort of the main dish while providing a nutritious boost.
Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds fresh, crisp textures that cut through the richness of the chicken thighs and rice. It’s the perfect refreshing side.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots coated in honey add a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of your one-pan meal. Their vibrant color also brightens the overall presentation.
Buttery Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are ideal for soaking up the flavorful broth from the rice, making your meal even more comforting and indulgent. They beckon everyone to the table for seconds.
Lemon Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of lemon iced tea enhances the warm, cozy vibes of dinner while balancing the hearty meal with a hint of citrus brightness.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a silky, rich chocolate mousse provides a sweet ending, melting beautifully on the palate after that comforting savory dish. Pairing this decadence with fresh berries makes every bite irresistible.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Thighs and Rice are perfect for busy weeknights and can be made ahead to save you precious time! You can season and sear the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop the onion and garlic ahead of time; simply refrigerate them separately in sealed bags to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just follow the remaining cooking steps by sautéing the aromatics, toasting the rice, and adding the broth and pre-cooked chicken. This way, you’ll have a comforting, home-cooked dish ready in no time, just as delicious as cooking it fresh!

Expert Tips for Chicken Thighs and Rice

Monitor Chicken Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken thighs reach 165°F for safe consumption, preventing dry or undercooked meat.
Rice Texture: If the rice isn’t fluffy, add a splash of warm broth and cover for an extra 5 minutes, letting the flavors of your Chicken Thighs and Rice meld together.
Custom Flavors: Experiment with spices or fresh herbs to personalize the dish; adding citrus zest can brighten the garlicky flavors splendidly.
Avoid Quick-Cooking Rice: Stick to long-grain white rice for the best results; quick-cooking varieties may not absorb the rich flavors properly.
Leftover Storage: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring the amazing taste lasts for another meal!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Thighs and Rice

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Thighs and Rice in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portion into freezer-safe containers and make sure to label them with the date for easy reference.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to revive moisture.

Safety Tip: Always ensure leftovers are cooled before refrigeration or freezing to maintain quality and prevent bacterial growth.

Chicken Thighs and Rice Variations

Feel free to get creative and give this delicious dish your own personal twist!

Dairy-Free: Omit butter and use olive oil to sauté the onions for a lighter, dairy-free option.
For those who are avoiding dairy, this change ensures the rice still turns out rich without adding cream or cheese.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in diced bell peppers, frozen peas, or fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
This adds vibrant colors and nutrients to your meal while making it even more satisfying.
Herb Variations: Switch up fresh parsley for thyme or rosemary to inspire new flavors.
These fragrant herbs can create delightful contrasts, making each bite a little adventure in flavor.
Spicier Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to spice things up.
For those who love a bit of heat, remember that a little goes a long way, so start small and adjust to taste!
Whole Grain Substitute: Use brown rice instead of white for added fiber and texture.
Just remember, brown rice takes longer to cook, so be sure to adjust the broth and simmer time accordingly.
Citrus Zest: Add the zest of a lemon or lime to the broth for a refreshing lift.
This brightens the entire dish, making it a perfect fit for seasonal meals with bright, sunny flavors.
Umami Upgrade: Mix in some soy sauce or miso paste for extra depth of flavor.
These umami-rich ingredients will pair beautifully with the chicken thighs and rice, creating a dish that’s irresistibly savory.

For more delightful chicken ideas, check out Herb Roasted Chicken and Chicken Caesar Sandwich!

Chicken Thighs and Rice Recipe FAQs

How do I pick the best chicken thighs?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken thighs, look for those with a pink hue and no visible dark spots. The skin should be intact and not slimy. Fresh chicken thighs should feel moist but not sticky. If you prefer boneless, they should be well-trimmed, allowing for even cooking.

How long can I store leftovers of Chicken Thighs and Rice?
You can refrigerate your Chicken Thighs and Rice in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Just ensure the dish cools to room temperature before sealing to maintain its delightful flavors and prevent bacteria growth.

Can I freeze Chicken Thighs and Rice?
Absolutely! For freezing, portion the Chicken Thighs and Rice into freezer-safe containers. It will maintain its quality for up to 2 months. Ensure to date and label the containers for easy tracking, and try to use a vacuum sealer if possible for optimal freshness.

What should I do if my rice isn’t tender?
Very! If your rice isn’t tender after the recommended cooking time, add a splash of warm chicken broth or water. Cover the skillet again and let it steam for an additional 5 minutes. This should help achieve that fluffy texture you’re looking for.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! To make your Chicken Thighs and Rice gluten-free, simply use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure your seasonings (like garlic powder and onion powder) are certified gluten-free. It’s entirely customizable and just as delicious!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! If you prefer using chicken breasts, you can substitute them. Just be aware that they will cook faster, so check for doneness at around 15-20 minutes total cooking time. This will help avoid dry chicken while still enjoying this flavorful dish.