When serving chicken thighs and rice, the right side dishes can really enhance the meal. Steamed vegetables, such as bright green broccoli or crisp green beans, add a refreshing crunch and a burst of color, balancing the heartiness of the chicken and rice.
Roasted garlic bread is another perfect pairing—warm, crispy, and ideal for soaking up any extra sauce or juices from the chicken. For a lighter contrast, a citrusy salad made with kale or spinach can provide a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the dish.
To add a tangy burst of flavor, pickles or olives are an excellent choice, cutting through the richness of the chicken and rice with their briny, zesty taste. These sides together will elevate your chicken thigh and rice meal, offering a perfect combination of textures and flavors.
What is Chicken Thigh and Rice?
At its core, chicken thigh and rice is a comforting one-pot meal. You start with juicy chicken thighs, seasoned and seared to perfection, and then simmer them with rice. The combination creates a flavorful harmony that fills the belly and soothes the soul.
While you can swap out the rice for quinoa or couscous, rice remains a classic choice, soaking up the savory goodness of the chicken.
Why This Recipe Works?
Let’s break down why this dish is a crowd-pleaser:
1. Flavorful Ingredients: The chicken thighs are marinated with a mixture of spices and seared to capture all the juices. This infuses the rice with an incredible taste.
2. Simplicity and Convenience: With just a handful of ingredients, preparation is a breeze. Less time cooking translates to more family bonding time.
3. Budget-Friendly: Chicken thighs tend to be less expensive than chicken breasts while offering richer flavor. Plus, rice is an economical staple.
4. Flexibility: You can change it up based on what you’ve got on hand. Add vegetables or swap out seasonings, making each preparation uniquely yours.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Chicken Thigh and Rice
Here’s a handy list for you:
Main Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon cold-pressed olive oil
- 1 teaspoon freshly minced garlic
- 1 pinch dried basil
- 1 pinch Himalayan pink salt
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Marinating Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon allspice
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in crafting the flavors. It’s like a cast of characters coming together to tell a delicious story!
How To Make These?
Now, let’s dive into the nuts and bolts of preparing this flavorful dish.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing the sea salt, cracked black pepper, smoked paprika, dried rosemary, allspice, and onion powder in a bowl. Coat your chicken thighs with this mixture. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. I know this step requires patience, but it’s worth it!
Step 2: Searing the Chicken
In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs, skin-side down. Cook until the skin is golden and crispy, about 6-7 minutes. Flip them over and sear the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and dried basil. Stir it for about a minute, releasing the beautiful aroma into your kitchen.
Step 4: Cooking the Rice
Add the basmati rice to the skillet and stir it to coat the rice with the flavors left from the chicken. Next, pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Cook
Once boiling, return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquid and expand, creating a delightful base for your chicken.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender, take the skillet off the heat. Let it sit covered for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows for flavors to meld even further. Finally, serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice on top.
Tips
- High-Quality Chicken: Opt for organic or free-range chicken thighs for the best flavor.
- Cut Back on Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and watch the salt you add during marinating.
- Leftover Storage: Store any remnants in the fridge for up to four days—perfect for lunch the next day!
- Play with Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs based on your preferences.
- Don’t Skimp on Resting: Allowing the dish to rest after cooking is essential for enhancing the flavors.
How to Store the Leftovers?
- Cooling: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature.
- Transfer: Use an airtight container to store leftovers. It keeps freshness locked in.
- Fridge Life: Store in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently to enjoy it again!
Recommended Side Dishes for Chicken Thigh and Rice
Wondering what to serve alongside your chicken and rice? Here are some great suggestions:
1. Fresh Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn pairs beautifully, bringing a touch of warmth.
3. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, golden potatoes seasoned with garlic make every bite satisfying.
4. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy slaw brightens the plate and balances the richness of the chicken.
Substitute Options for the Ingredients
Running low on supplies? No worries! Here are some smart substitutes:
1. Chicken Thighs: Use chicken drumsticks or breasts if thighs aren’t available. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. Basmati Rice: Long-grain white rice or brown rice can be used as alternatives, but cooking times might vary.
3. Fresh Garlic: Garlic powder or shallots deliver flavor if you’re out of fresh garlic.
4. Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth works well for a different twist, keeping it veggie-friendly.
Conclusion
Chicken thigh and rice isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience of comfort and satisfaction. It brings people together, whether it’s a family dinner or a quiet weekday celebration.
You can customize it endlessly, tailoring flavors to fit your unique palate. Plus, it’s easy enough for a beginner yet satisfying for culinary enthusiasts.
As you explore this dish, I hope you find joy in cooking—sharing food is about connection.
So, roll up your sleeves, crank up the stove, and embrace the deliciousness that is chicken thigh and rice. Your loved ones will thank you!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
- Baked Chicken and Rice Copycat Recipe
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Chicken Thigh and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals
Description
Imagine it’s a Friday evening, you’ve had a long week, and cooking feels like a chore. Wouldn’t it be nice to whip up a family-friendly meal that’s easy and so satisfying? Enter chicken thigh and rice!
This dish is simple, fulfilling, and can be dressed up or down according to your mood or the occasion. Trust me, it’s the type of food that manifests love and warmth with every bite, making your home a haven of delightful flavors.
When it comes to easy dinner recipes, chicken thigh and rice stands tall. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also adaptable to various seasonings and sides.
The best part? This dish ticks a lot of boxes—satisfying, nutritious, and downright delicious. Let's explore just how this recipe becomes a staple in kitchens everywhere.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Marinating Seasonings
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
-
Start by mixing the sea salt, cracked black pepper, smoked paprika, dried rosemary, allspice, and onion powder in a bowl. Coat your chicken thighs with this mixture. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. I know this step requires patience, but it’s worth it!
Step 2: Searing the Chicken
-
In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs, skin-side down. Cook until the skin is golden and crispy, about 6-7 minutes. Flip them over and sear the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
-
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and dried basil. Stir it for about a minute, releasing the beautiful aroma into your kitchen.
Step 4: Cooking the Rice
-
Add the basmati rice to the skillet and stir it to coat the rice with the flavors left from the chicken. Next, pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Cook
-
Once boiling, return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquid and expand, creating a delightful base for your chicken.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
-
Once the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender, take the skillet off the heat. Let it sit covered for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows for flavors to meld even further. Finally, serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice on top.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 243kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9.9g16%
- Saturated Fat 1.6g8%
- Sodium 3064mg128%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 11g44%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 7g15%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- High-Quality Chicken: Opt for organic or free-range chicken thighs for the best flavor.
- Cut Back on Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and watch the salt you add during marinating.
- Leftover Storage: Store any remnants in the fridge for up to four days—perfect for lunch the next day!
- Play with Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs based on your preferences.
- Don’t Skimp on Resting: Allowing the dish to rest after cooking is essential for enhancing the flavors.
