One-Pan Chicken, Peppers with Rice
One-Pan Chicken, Peppers with Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish where tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and seasoned rice cook together in one pan.
Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
2 cups long-grain rice (uncooked)
2 chicken breasts (or 4 thighs), cut into chunks
2 cups bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Liquid & Seasoning
3 cups chicken broth
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp cumin (optional for extra flavor)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Add-Ins
½ cup peas or corn
1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes (for a saucier version)
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
1. Heat olive oil in a large deep pan or skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chicken pieces and cook for 5–6 minutes until lightly browned.
3. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables
4. In the same pan, add onion, garlic, and bell peppers.
5. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Add Rice and Seasonings
6. Stir in uncooked rice and toast for 1–2 minutes.
7. Add paprika, Italian seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add Liquid and Simmer
8. Pour in chicken broth (and diced tomatoes if using).
9. Return the chicken to the pan.
10. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
11. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Finish and Serve
12. Add peas or corn in the last 5 minutes if using.
13. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
14. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Tips for Best Results
Use long-grain rice for fluffy texture (avoid sticky rice).
Keep the lid on while cooking to trap steam for perfectly cooked rice.
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking before serving.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
Recipe Notes
You can swap chicken with shrimp or tofu.
For a spicy version, add chili flakes or hot sauce.
Works well for meal prep—stores up to 4 days in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but increase cooking time to 35–40 minutes and add extra liquid.
Can I make this in a rice cooker?
Yes. Sauté ingredients first, then transfer everything to the rice cooker.
What other vegetables can I use?
Try zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or green beans.
Nutritional Information
Calories 460 kcal
Protein 32 g
Carbohydrates 52 g
Fat 12 g
Fiber 4 g
Sugar 4 g