Savory Cast Iron Chicken & Rice
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Description
A one-pan wonder full of flavor and comfort—this Savory Cast Iron Chicken & Rice combines juicy, seasoned chicken with tender, fluffy rice cooked in a rich blend of broth, herbs, and aromatics. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup and maximum taste.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp dried thyme
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Rice:
1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (rinsed)
3 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp butter
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp dried parsley
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
Instructions
Season the Chicken
Pat chicken thighs dry and season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken skin-side down for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook another 3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, melt butter.
Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the Rice
Stir in rinsed rice, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Toast the rice for 1–2 minutes to enhance flavor.
Combine & Simmer
Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine.
Nestle seared chicken thighs on top, skin-side up.
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover with a lid or foil, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
Serve hot straight from the skillet.
Tips & Variations
Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or bone-in breasts.
Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
For extra richness, stir in ¼ cup heavy cream before serving.
