Description

A foolproof, one-pan meal featuring seared chicken thighs, fluffy long-grain rice, and sweet, jammy caramelized onions. This comfort food dish requires minimal cleanup and delivers maximum flavor with simple techniques.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Salt and black pepper (generous amount)
2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
1.5 cups long-grain white rice (Jasmine or Basmati)
2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
2 large yellow onions, sliced
1 teaspoon brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
Green onions for garnish (optional)
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Pat chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken skin-side down for 6-7 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook 2-3 minutes more. Remove chicken to a plate.
Reduce heat to medium. Add sliced onions, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt to the pan. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown and jammy.
Push onions to the sides, add butter, then rice. Stir to coat and toast for 1-2 minutes until edges look translucent.
Pour in chicken broth and sprinkle with thyme. Stir gently to combine.
Place seared chicken thighs on top of the rice, skin-side up. Ensure liquid comes about halfway up the chicken.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with lid and simmer for 20-25 minutes without lifting the lid.
Remove from heat and let rest covered for 5 minutes.
Uncover, fluff rice with a fork, and serve topped with green onions or parsley.

Notes

Do not lift the lid while simmering to trap steam. If using boneless thighs, reduce cooking time slightly. For a vegetarian version, skip chicken and use vegetable broth. Rice may harden in the fridge; reheat with a splash of water or broth.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with
Calories: 520
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 680
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 7
Carbohydrates: 45
Fiber: 2
Protein: 35

Keywords: one-pan dinner, chicken and rice, caramelized onions, easy weeknight meals, comfort food, skillet meals, foolproof recipe