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Dutch Oven Chicken and Rice

An easy Dutch oven chicken and rice recipe that combines juicy chicken and fluffy rice in one pot for a comforting, flavorful meal.

This Dutch Oven Chicken and Rice is a comforting one-pot meal featuring juicy, seasoned chicken thighs and fluffy, flavorful rice. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is packed with savory herbs and rich textures, making it a family favorite! 🍗🍚

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or 2 chicken breasts)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter

For the Rice:

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season & Sear the Chicken:

    • Pat chicken dry and season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
    • Heat olive oil and butter in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
    • Sear chicken skin-side down for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
    • Remove chicken and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics:

    • In the same Dutch oven, add onion and garlic, cooking for 2 minutes until softened.
    • Stir in rice, salt, black pepper, and thyme, toasting for 1 minute.
  3. Cook the Rice & Chicken Together:

    • Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
    • Nestle the seared chicken into the rice, skin-side up.
    • Cover and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
  4. Final Touches:

    • Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
    • Stir in frozen peas (if using) and fluff the rice with a fork.
    • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • For extra richness, stir in 2 tbsp of heavy cream or Parmesan cheese before serving.
  • For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the seasoning mix.
  • For a whole-grain option, use brown rice and increase the baking time to 45 minutes.