Chicken and Brown Rice in a Single Pot

This easy one-pot meal combines tender chicken with nutritious brown rice for a comforting and wholesome dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup.

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TIME1 hr 30 min

SERVINGS4

RATINGNew

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts salt and ground black pepper to taste 1 large yellow onion, cut into wedges 2 stalks celery, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces 1 ¾ cups water 2 medium carrots, cut into 1-1/2 inch pieces 1 bay leaf 1 cup brown rice

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by heating some oil in a large pot over medium heat. While the oil warms up, season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pot and cook it until it’s nicely browned on both sides, about 10 to 12 minutes. Once browned, toss in the chopped onion and celery. Turn the heat down to low, cover the pot, and let everything cook gently for about 20 minutes.

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Step 2

Next, pour in the water along with the carrots and a bay leaf. Stir in the rice, then season again with a bit of salt and pepper. Turn the heat back up until the mixture boils, then lower it to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid, which should take around 40 to 45 minutes.

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Step 3

When it’s done, take the pot off the heat but keep it covered. Let it rest for about 10 minutes so the flavors can settle before you dig in.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor and moisture.
- Toast the brown rice briefly before adding liquid to enhance its nutty taste.
- Keep the pot covered while cooking to ensure the rice cooks evenly and stays tender.

Why you’ll love it

This dish is a perfect balance of protein and whole grains, making it both nutritious and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting and wholesome dinner.

Serving ideas

Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to add color and crunch. A squeeze of lemon juice over the top can brighten the flavors. For extra richness, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the rice has dried out. This dish also freezes well—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.