Easy Recipe for Busy Parents: One-Pot Chicken and Rice

Back-to-school season is a busy time for parents, and finding time to cook a nutritious meal can be a challenge. That’s why having a quick and easy recipe in your back pocket is a lifesaver. This One-Pot Chicken and Rice dish is not only simple to make, but it's also packed with flavor and nutrients to keep the whole family satisfied.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup of long-grain white rice

• 2 cups of chicken broth

• 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots (or any mixed vegetables you prefer)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 tsp of paprika

• 1 tsp of dried thyme (or any herbs you like)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp of olive oil

  
  

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme on both sides.

2. Sear the Chicken:

   • In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

   • Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Cook the Vegetables:

   • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.

   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

4. Add the Rice and Broth:

   • Pour the rice into the skillet with the onions and garlic, stirring to coat the rice with the flavors.

   • Add the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the skillet, stirring to combine.

5. Cook the Chicken and Rice:

   • Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture.

   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

6. Add the Vegetables:

   • In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas and carrots, and cover again to let them cook through.

7. Serve:

   • Once everything is cooked, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve the chicken and rice directly from the skillet.

Tips:

• Make it your own: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or use brown rice (just adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly).

• Meal prep: This dish reheats well, so you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Chicken and Rice is perfect for busy parents juggling back-to-school schedules. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a stress-free way to get a wholesome, delicious dinner on the table fast. Enjoy the convenience and the peace of mind that comes with feeding your family a balanced meal, even on the busiest days!