Easy One Pot Paprika Chicken Thighs and Rice Recipe

Written by on in Dinner

This post may contain paid and/or affiliate links. I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our Privacy Policy.

As a working parent, finding the time to prepare a wholesome, delicious dinner can often feel like an insurmountable challenge.

Between juggling work commitments, school runs, and extracurricular activities, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen.

That’s why I’m always on the lookout for quick, easy-to-cook meals that can satisfy the whole family without compromising on flavour or nutrition.

One such recipe that has become a staple in our household is the Easy One Pot Paprika Chicken Thighs and Rice.

Jump to Recipe

This dish is not only incredibly flavorful, but it also requires minimal effort and cleanup—perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table fast.

I remember one particularly busy evening when I had back-to-back meetings and my kids had swimming.

By the time we all got home, everyone was starving, and I needed to whip up something quickly. That’s when I turned to this easy recipe. With just a few ingredients and one pot, I was able to create a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone loved. Plus, the leftovers made for an easy lunch the next day!

This dish has all the elements of a perfect weeknight dinner: it’s quick, easy, and delicious.

The smoky paprika adds a depth of flavour to the tender chicken thighs, while the rice soaks up all the savoury juices, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent on the go, or just someone who loves a good one-pot meal, this recipe is sure to become a favourite in your kitchen.

One Pot Paprika Chicken Thighs and Rice Recipe

One Pot Paprika Chicken Thighs and Rice Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 5-6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
  • 1 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper plus more to taste
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder plus more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder plus more to taste
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne powder, and smoked paprika. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  • Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and cook another 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  • Add the rice and additional smoked paprika, stirring for 1-2 minutes to toast the rice slightly.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, seasoning with additional salt and pepper.
  • Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up, on top of the rice. Cover and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
  • Let the dish rest, covered, for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.

Enjoy your delicious one-pot paprika chicken and rice!

Tips for Perfecting One-Pot Meals

One-pot meals like this Easy One Pot Paprika Chicken Thighs and Rice are truly a game-changer for busy families. They offer a convenient way to prepare delicious, nutritious dinners without the hassle of multiple dishes and extensive cleanup. To help you master the art of one-pot cooking, here are a few tips that I’ve found incredibly useful:

  1. Prep Ingredients in Advance: Chop your vegetables, measure out your spices, and have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient. I always freeze frozen chopped onion and garlic so I can add them to meals easily without needing to do a lot of extra prep for every meal!
  2. Layer Flavors: Start by sautéing aromatics like onions, garlic, and spices to build a strong flavour base. This step is crucial for adding depth to your dish and also makes the whole house smell delicious.
  3. Use the Right Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven works best for one-pot meals. These pots distribute heat evenly and help prevent burning. I use an oven-safe stainless steel dish that works best cooking on medium heat. I get to cook on the stove and easily transfer it to the oven without needing to swap anything.
  4. Don’t Rush the Sear: When searing meats, make sure to get a good, deep brown crust. This not only locks in juices but also adds a rich, savoury flavour to the dish. Grilling bone in skin on chicken thighs can be tricky if you’re impatient, they will let you know when they are ready to flip. When you go to flip and they are still sticking to the pan… LEAVE THEM ALONE. They will be easy to flip if they are ready.
  5. Adjust Liquids as Needed: Depending on the ingredients and your stove, you might need to adjust the amount of liquid. Keep an eye on your dish and add more broth or water if it looks too dry.
  6. Let It Rest: After cooking, let your dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavours to meld together and makes for a more cohesive meal.
  7. Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the dish and add a fresh, vibrant touch.

By following these tips, you can create a variety of delicious one-pot meals that are perfect for any busy weeknight. Happy cooking!