Name: Rice and Chicken Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs or drumsticks; 1 large onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp turmeric (optional); 1 cup rice (washed); 4 cups chicken broth or water; Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Jump to Recipe

Rice and Chicken Stew is the ultimate comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice in a savory broth. This hearty stew is not only filling but also bursting with rich flavors from a combination of fresh ingredients and warm spices. The chicken thighs or drumsticks, with their juicy texture, meld beautifully with the aromatic vegetables, while the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors of the broth, creating a one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a meal to share with friends, this stew is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to make, and with just one pot, cleanup is a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hearty & Satisfying

This stew is a complete meal in one pot. The combination of tender chicken, vegetables, and rice creates a filling dish that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

2. Simple to Prepare

With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of any skill level. It’s a great go-to dish for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting, homemade meal.

3. Packed with Flavor

The blend of spices like paprika and turmeric, along with the savory chicken broth, infuses the stew with rich, warm flavors. The chicken and vegetables are cooked together, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

4. Versatile

Feel free to adjust the vegetables to what you have on hand, such as adding peas, potatoes, or green beans. You can also switch up the type of chicken for different flavors.

5. One-Pot Meal

This recipe is cooked in one pot, making it easy to prepare and even easier to clean up afterward. It’s the perfect hassle-free meal for busy days or a lazy weekend.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs or drumsticks
Onion
Carrots
Bell pepper
Tomatoes (fresh or canned)
Garlic
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Turmeric (optional)
Rice (washed)
Chicken broth or water
Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Variations

Add More Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or potatoes to make the stew even heartier and more nutritious.
Spicy Kick: For a spicy variation, add a diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes along with the other spices.
Bone-in or Boneless Chicken: While chicken thighs and drumsticks are ideal for this stew, you can also use boneless chicken breasts. Just be mindful of cooking times to avoid overcooking the chicken.
Herb Variations: You can experiment with other herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for a slightly different flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear until golden brown on both sides. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, sauté the diced onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced bell peppers until they are softened and fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down into a thick sauce, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Spices and Broth

Stir in the salt, pepper, paprika, and optional turmeric. Return the seared chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth or water, ensuring the chicken is covered. Bring to a boil.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Add the washed rice to the pot, stirring to combine. Lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through. If needed, check the rice and add more liquid if it starts to dry out.

Step 5: Serve

Once the stew is ready, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy a comforting, wholesome meal!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Sear the Chicken Well: Browning the chicken adds extra depth of flavor to the stew. Make sure to sear each side until golden for the best taste.
Use Good Broth: The chicken broth or water will be the base of the stew, so using a high-quality broth or homemade stock will elevate the dish.
Don’t Overcook the Rice: Stir the rice in gently and keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking. The rice should be tender but not mushy.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the stew as it cooks and adjust the seasoning, especially salt and pepper, to match your preference.

How to Serve

This Rice and Chicken Stew is filling and flavorful on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside some roasted vegetables or a light appetizer like hummus and pita to round out the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of water or broth if the stew has thickened.

Freezing

This stew freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat the stew on low heat to ensure the chicken stays tender. If the stew has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth and stir to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs or drumsticks?

Yes, boneless chicken breast can be used. Just be cautious about cooking time to avoid overcooking the chicken.

2. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this stew in a slow cooker. Brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the broth and rice. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it will require a longer cooking time, and you may need to add more liquid.

4. How can I make the stew spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the stew for a spicy kick.

5. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Frozen chicken can be used, but it should be thawed before searing and added to the pot. It may also require slightly longer cooking times.

6. Can I add potatoes to this stew?

Yes, diced potatoes can be added for extra heartiness. Add them along with the other vegetables in Step 2.

7. Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes, this stew can be made a day ahead. The flavors will meld together, and it will taste even better the next day.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check that the chicken broth or water you use is gluten-free.

9. Can I use canned vegetables instead of fresh?

Fresh vegetables work best for this stew, but if you need to use canned vegetables, make sure to drain and rinse them well before adding them to the stew.

10. What herbs can I add to enhance the flavor?

You can add fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for added flavor. Just remove them before serving.

Conclusion

Rice and Chicken Stew is a comforting, one-pot meal that’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Easy to prepare, customizable, and filling, this stew is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy it for a weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal, it’s a simple yet hearty dish that everyone will love.