Air Fryer Chicken And Rice: Easy One-Pot Recipe

by Alex Braham 48 views

Hey guys! Are you looking for a super simple, ridiculously tasty dinner that won't keep you chained to the stove all night? Well, buckle up because we're about to dive into the magic of air fryer chicken and rice! This recipe is a game-changer, combining juicy chicken with perfectly cooked rice in one single pot, all thanks to the чудо of your air fryer. Trust me, this will become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Why You'll Love This Air Fryer Chicken and Rice

Okay, let's get real. Why should you even bother trying this recipe when there are a million others out there? Here’s the lowdown:

  • Effortless Cooking: Seriously, dump everything in, set the timer, and walk away. Could it be any easier?
  • Quick Clean-Up: One pot means minimal dishes. Hallelujah!
  • Healthy-ish: We're using an air fryer, which means less oil and a generally healthier cooking method compared to frying or using the oven.
  • Customizable: Feel free to swap out veggies, spices, or even the type of rice to suit your taste. The possibilities are endless!
  • Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this. The chicken is tender, the rice is flavorful, and it's all just...delicious.

This air fryer chicken and rice recipe is great because it is simple to prepare, but also because it is very tasty. The combination of spices and the natural flavors of chicken create a very welcoming aroma. Besides that, you can play with the ingredients that you use. For example, you can prepare it with vegetables such as carrots, zucchini or broccoli. This recipe is also ideal for those who are starting out in the culinary world. With very few steps, you can create a dish worthy of a chef. Dare to prepare this chicken and rice in air fryer!

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we get started, let's gather our ingredients. Don't worry; you probably already have most of these in your pantry.

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, cut into cubes)
  • 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish

Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: I prefer using chicken thighs because they stay incredibly moist and flavorful in the air fryer. However, chicken breasts will work too, just be careful not to overcook them.
  • Rice: Long-grain rice is your best bet for this recipe. It cooks evenly and doesn't get mushy. Make sure to rinse it well to remove excess starch.
  • Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is always a good choice so you can control the saltiness of the dish. You can also use water, but the broth adds extra flavor.
  • Spices: Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices. Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, or even a little bit of chili powder would be fantastic.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Here's how to make the best air fryer chicken and rice:

  1. Prep the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In an air fryer-safe pot or dish, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the entire dish.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the rinsed rice and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed in the broth.
  4. Add the Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the rice. Try to spread them out evenly so they cook properly.
  5. Air Fry: Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer, so keep an eye on it.
  6. Rest: Once the cooking time is up, let the pot rest for 5-10 minutes with the lid on. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and become perfectly fluffy.
  7. Fluff and Serve: Remove the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro (if using). Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious air fryer chicken and rice!

Tips for Perfection

  • Don't overcrowd: Make sure the chicken is in a single layer in the pot. Overcrowding will lead to uneven cooking.
  • Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature. The rice should be tender and the liquid should be absorbed.
  • Adjust cooking time: Air fryers vary, so you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. If the rice is still too wet, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
  • Add vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the pot along with the rice and chicken broth. Diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers would be great additions.

Variations to Try

Want to spice things up a bit? Here are a few variations to try:

  • Spicy Chicken and Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken marinade for a fiery kick.
  • Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: Add a tablespoon of lemon juice and a teaspoon of dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano) to the pot for a bright and flavorful dish.
  • Mushroom Chicken and Rice: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onion and garlic for an earthy and savory twist.
  • Mexican Chicken and Rice: Use salsa instead of chicken broth and add a can of black beans and some corn for a fiesta in a pot!

Serving Suggestions

This air fryer chicken and rice is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to take it to the next level:

  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing complement to the rich and savory chicken and rice.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and delicious side dishes.
  • Garlic Bread: Because who doesn't love garlic bread?
  • Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices add a healthy and satisfying touch.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time than white rice. Add an extra 1/2 cup of chicken broth and increase the cooking time by 15-20 minutes.

Can I use frozen chicken?

I don't recommend using frozen chicken for this recipe. Frozen chicken will release a lot of water as it cooks, which can make the rice mushy. If you must use frozen chicken, thaw it completely before cooking.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the air fryer until heated through.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, simply air fry as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if the dish is cold.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – the easiest, most delicious air fryer chicken and rice recipe you'll ever make! I promise, this will become a family favorite in no time. It's perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or any time you need a comforting and satisfying meal. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! Happy cooking, guys!