Directions

Let’s keep it a buck — weeknights get hectic. But that doesn’t mean your dinner has to suffer. Just because you’re short on time doesn’t mean you have tp settle for boring food. This One Pan Chicken & Rice dish checks every box: it’s fast, it’s flavorful, and it looks as good as it tastes.

We’re talking juicy, tender chicken paired with perfectly seasoned rice, all cooked together in one pan. It’s bursting with vibrant colors and bold spices that come together in harmony — no extra pots, no extra stress.

Even better? It’s kid-approved! The little people in my house devoured this meal and didn't even fight me when I served the leftovers the next day. That’s a rare W in my book.

And here’s a bonus: this dish isn’t just tasty — it’s nutritious too. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and keeping you full longer, while rice provides a great energy boost and is easy on the stomach. Together, they create a balanced, satisfying meal that fuels your body and fits into your busy life.

You will be spinning the block on this one — I already have.

Ready to give it a go?

Check out the full recipe below and explore more easy, delicious meals like this one on my site. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank me!

1. In a medium bowl, season chicken with all of your herbs and spices. Massage the chicken to get an even coating over everything.

2. In a large pan with high sides, heat olive oil over medium-high. When oil is just starting to smoke, add your seasoned chicken and sear for 4 minutes or until well browned.

3. Flip chicken and cook for another 4 minutes. Remove the chicken to a plate.

4. In the same hot pan melt the butter. Add your diced onions and using a wooden spatula, stir well, scraping the bottom of the pan to get any crispy bits. Cook onions for 4-5 minutes, stirring often.

5. Add rice to the pan and stir to coat. Cooked for 1 minute. Add tomato paste and stir until combine. Cook an additional minute.

6. Pour chicken brother into pot, stirring to incorporate into rice. Bring to a boil and then turn to medium-low to low until the pot is just simmering. Add the chicken back to the pot and cover.

7. Cook undisturbed for 20 minutes.

8. Fluff rice around the chicken with a fork. Let sit for 5 minutes. Add chopped chives and serve either with the chicken whole, or cut into bites and incorporate it into the rice!