When the crisp autumn breeze rolls in and the evenings start to feel a little cooler, there’s nothing better than gathering around the table with a hearty, comforting meal. This Gluten Free One Pot Chicken and Rice is the kind of dish that warms your kitchen with savory aromas and brings everyone running for dinner. It’s a reader favorite because it delivers everything you love in a fall recipe: wholesome ingredients, simple prep, and a cozy flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Unlike complicated casseroles or fussy stovetop dishes, this recipe comes together in one pot. That means less cleanup, more flavor, and more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a satisfying way to bring comfort food back to the table—gluten-free and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, making it an easy go-to dinner any night of the week.
For the Gluten Free One Pot Chicken and Rice:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, cut into chunks)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (ensure certified gluten-free)
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe is designed to be approachable for home cooks of all levels. Follow along and you’ll have a cozy, nourishing dinner on the table in under an hour.
- Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. - Cook the Chicken
Add chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Cook until the chicken is golden on the outside, about 5 minutes (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked through yet). - Add Rice and Broth
Stir in the rice, coating it with the seasonings and pan juices. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot. - Simmer with Veggies
Add the carrot and celery. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover with a lid and let cook for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. - Finish with Peas and Fresh Parsley
Stir in the frozen peas and let them warm through for 2–3 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Gluten Free One Pot Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose the right rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe. Brown rice can be used, but you’ll need to add about 15–20 more minutes of cooking time and possibly a bit more broth.
- Don’t rush the simmer: Keeping the pot covered allows the rice to absorb the flavors of the broth and chicken. Resist the urge to peek too often!
- Adjust seasoning at the end: Since broths vary in saltiness, taste the dish before serving and adjust with a little more salt and pepper if needed.
Possible Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few variations to try:
- Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to sneak in more veggies.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use olive oil instead of butter for a completely dairy-free dish.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a little heat.
- Cheesy Comfort: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar or parmesan at the end for a creamy finish.
- Protein Swap: Use turkey, shrimp, or even tofu as a substitute for chicken.
Storage Recommendations
This dish makes excellent leftovers, so don’t hesitate to double the recipe for meal prep.
- Refrigerator: Store cooled chicken and rice in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
- Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Gluten Free One Pot Chicken and Rice is more than just dinner—it’s comfort, convenience, and nourishment all wrapped into one. With cozy fall flavors, simple steps, and easy cleanup, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re curled up on a chilly evening or cooking for a busy weeknight, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of a one-pot meal transform your kitchen into a cozy haven tonight.