One-Pot Chicken and Jasmine Rice Feast

One-Pot Chicken and Jasmine Rice Feast

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, nothing beats a comforting meal that's simple to prepare and packed with flavor. This One-Pot Chicken and Jasmine Rice Feast is a delightful dish that brings together succulent chicken and aromatic jasmine rice in a symphony of spices and herbs. Get ready to enjoy a wholesome meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.

2. Sear the Chicken: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

4. 

   Add Rice and Spices: Stir in the jasmine rice, ensuring it's well-coated with the onion mixture. Add the thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper, and mix thoroughly.

5. Incorporate Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

6. Combine and Cook: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture. Scatter the peas over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

7. Finish and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

This One-Pot Chicken and Jasmine Rice Feast is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken provides a good source of high-quality protein, essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Jasmine rice offers a quick source of energy, while the inclusion of peas adds fiber, vitamins, and phytonutrients.

For a balanced meal, consider pairing this dish with a crisp side salad, such as a cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and lemon. The refreshing crunch complements the savory depth of the chicken and rice beautifully. As for drinks, a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity iced tea can enhance the meal's flavors and provide a refreshing contrast. Enjoy your feast!