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Cheapest Chicken and Rice Recipe

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A simple, affordable, and cozy chicken and rice dish perfect for budget meals and busy weeknights. This recipe uses pantry staples to create a flavorful and comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (270 grams)
  • 3 cups chicken broth (720 ml), low-sodium recommended
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
  • Optional: ½ cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables

Instructions

  1. Pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Set aside for about 5 minutes.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 5-6 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and brown the other side for 3-4 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium. Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the rice, coating it with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and stir gently. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. If using frozen peas or vegetables, stir them in now.
  5. Nestle the browned chicken thighs skin-side up on top of the rice. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes without lifting the lid.
  6. Turn off the heat and keep the lid on for 5 more minutes to let flavors meld and rice finish steaming. Check seasoning and adjust if needed before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry before cooking helps achieve crispy skin. Use bone-in thighs for juicier meat and richer broth. Keep heat low during simmering to prevent rice from sticking or burning. Resist stirring rice while cooking to allow proper absorption of broth. If rice is not tender after 25 minutes, add a splash of water, cover, and cook a few more minutes. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken and rice, budget meals, easy dinner, cozy recipe, affordable dinner, one-pan meal, quick chicken recipe

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/cheapest-chicken-and-rice-recipe-5-easy-steps-for-cozy-budget-meals/