1.5lbboneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
1.25tspkosher saltdivided
0.75tspblack pepperdivided
1tspsmoked paprika
1tspdried oregano
1cupchopped onion
0.5cupdiced carrots
2tspminced garlic
1.25cuplong-grain white rice, rinsed
2.75cuplow-sodium chicken broth
0.75cupfrozen peas
1tbspunsalted butteroptional, for richness
1tbspfresh lemon juice
1tsplemon zest
2tbspchopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Pat chicken dry. Season with 1 tsp salt, 0.5 tsp pepper, paprika, and oregano.
Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Brown chicken in two batches until lightly golden, 4–5 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
Reduce heat to medium. Sauté onion and carrots in the drippings until softened, about 3 minutes.
Stir in garlic and rice. Toast the rice for 1 minute, stirring often.
Pour in broth and scrape the pan bottom. Return chicken and any juices to the skillet.
Bring to a gentle boil. Cover, lower heat, and simmer until rice is tender, 18–22 minutes.
Stir in peas, butter, and remaining salt and pepper. Cover 2–3 minutes to warm through.
Finish with lemon juice and zest. Fluff the rice and adjust seasoning to taste.
Rest 5 minutes off heat. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Variation: Swap peas for chopped bell pepper or add a pinch of saffron with the broth. Storage: Refrigerate in a sealed container up to 4 days; splash in a bit of broth when reheating to keep the rice tender.This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic One-Pan Chicken and Rice Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.