29 One-Pot Chicken Dinner Recipes

One-pot chicken dinner recipes are perfect for busy weeknights. These dishes combine protein, vegetables, and grains in a single cooking vessel, making preparation and cleanup a breeze. From comforting classics to global-inspired flavors, there’s a one-pot chicken recipe for every taste.

Key Takeaways:

• One-pot meals save time and reduce cleanup
• Versatile recipes can be adapted for different diets and preferences
• Global flavors add variety to your meal rotation
• Proper ingredient layering ensures even cooking
• Leftovers can be easily stored and reheated for future meals

Best One-Pot Chicken Dinner Recipes You Must Try

One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipes

One-Pot Spanish Chicken and Rice

This flavorful dish combines crispy-skinned chicken thighs with aromatic rice infused with Spanish spices. The cold pan method ensures perfectly cooked chicken and rice in one skillet.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Place chicken skin-side down in a cold skillet.
3. Turn heat to medium and cook until skin is crispy (about 8-10 minutes).
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. Add onion and garlic to the skillet, sauté until softened.
6. Stir in rice, saffron, and chicken broth.
7. Place chicken on top of rice mixture.
8. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.

You can try this recipe image credit to cookedandloved

One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Vegetables

This hearty meal combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of colorful vegetables in one pot.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
6. Add rice and stir to coat with oil.
7. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
8. Add chicken back to the pot along with mixed vegetables.
9. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.

You can try this recipe image credit to livesimply

One-Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

This zesty and aromatic dish combines tender chicken with lemony rice and fresh herbs.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and half of the herbs.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add chicken skin-side down and cook until golden brown.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. In the same pot, sauté garlic until fragrant.
6. Add rice, lemon zest, remaining herbs, and chicken broth.
7. Place chicken on top of rice mixture.
8. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
9. Squeeze lemon juice over the dish before serving.

You can try this recipe image credit to lecremedelacrumb

One-Pot Chicken and Pasta Recipes

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

This comforting dish combines the flavors of classic chicken parmesan with the convenience of a one-pot pasta meal.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Add pasta, marinara sauce, and chicken broth to the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Cover and let cheese melt for 2-3 minutes before serving.

You can try this recipe image credit to thechunkychef

One-Pot Lemon Orzo Chicken

This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines tender chicken with orzo pasta in a zesty lemon sauce.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5. Stir in orzo, chicken broth, and lemon zest.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Add cherry tomatoes and olives, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and feta cheese.

You can try this recipe image credit to budgetbytes

Creamy Chicken and Tomato Pasta

This rich and comforting dish combines tender chicken with pasta in a creamy tomato sauce.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5. Pour in diced tomatoes and heavy cream.
6. Add pasta and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.
8. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is creamy.

You can try this recipe image credit to jocooks

Rasta Pasta (Jerk Chicken Pasta)

This Caribbean-inspired dish combines spicy jerk chicken with creamy pasta for a flavorful fusion meal.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with jerk seasoning and salt.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. In the same pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
6. Add pasta and enough water to cover.
7. Bring to a boil and cook until pasta is al dente.
8. Drain excess water if necessary.
9. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
10. Add chicken back to the pot and simmer until heated through.

You can try this recipe image credit to littlesunnykitchen

One-Pot Chicken and Potato Recipes

One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Potatoes

This comforting dish combines tender chicken with creamy potatoes for a satisfying meal.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
6. Add potatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
8. Add chicken back to the pot and simmer for an additional 10 minutes until potatoes are tender and chicken is cooked through.

You can try this recipe image credit to theroastedroot

One-Pan Chicken Potato Gratin

This indulgent dish layers crispy chicken over creamy potato gratin for a luxurious one-pan meal.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large ovenproof skillet, layer potato slices.
4. Pour cream over potatoes and sprinkle with garlic and half of the cheese.
5. Place chicken skin-side up on top of potatoes.
6. Sprinkle remaining cheese over chicken and potatoes.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes until chicken is crispy and potatoes are tender.

One-Pot Chicken with Global Flavors

Moroccan Chicken Thighs

This aromatic dish combines tender chicken with warm Moroccan spices for a flavorful one-pot meal.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add chicken skin-side down and cook until browned.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
6. Add tomatoes, chicken broth, olives, and saffron.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
8. Add chicken back to the pot, skin-side up.
9. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

You can try this recipe image credit to foodbanjo

Chicken Tikka Masala

This popular Indian-inspired dish combines tender chicken in a creamy tomato-based sauce.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, garam masala, turmeric, and paprika.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until softened.
6. Add tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Stir in heavy cream and add chicken back to the pot.
8. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until sauce is thickened and chicken is cooked through.

You can try this recipe image credit to bellyfull

Mediterranean Chicken (One-Pot or Sheet Pan)

This colorful dish combines chicken with Mediterranean vegetables and flavors for a healthy one-pot meal.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. In a large ovenproof skillet or sheet pan, combine chicken, vegetables, olives, and garlic.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
5. Roast for 35-40 minutes until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

You can try this recipe image credit to acedarspoon

One-Pot Chicken Soups and Stews

One-Pot Chicken, Kale, and Rice Soup

This hearty soup combines tender chicken, nutritious kale, and comforting rice in a flavorful broth.

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Stir in rice, chicken broth, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Add kale and simmer for an additional 5 minutes until rice is tender and kale is wilted.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

You can try this recipe image credit to edwinaclark

Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup

This comforting soup combines tender chicken and cheese tortellini in a creamy broth.

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, basil, and oregano.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Add tortellini and simmer for 5 minutes until tender.
7. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

You can try this recipe image credit to currytrail

Buffalo Chicken Chili

This spicy and hearty chili combines the flavors of buffalo chicken wings with a comforting chili base.

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, buffalo wing sauce, cumin, and paprika.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve with optional toppings if desired.

You can try this recipe image credit to cooking.teatimewithnaomi

One-Pan Chicken and Vegetable Recipes

Balsamic Chicken with Vegetables

This flavorful dish combines tender chicken with a variety of roasted vegetables in a tangy balsamic glaze.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
4. In a large ovenproof skillet or sheet pan, combine chicken, potatoes, tomatoes, and onion.
5. Pour balsamic mixture over chicken and vegetables.
6. Roast for 35-40 minutes until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

You can try this recipe image credit to acedarspoon

Chicken & Veggie Teriyaki Skillet

This Asian-inspired dish combines tender chicken and crisp vegetables in a flavorful teriyaki sauce.

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add garlic and ginger, sauté until fragrant.
4. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in teriyaki sauce and simmer for 5 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

You can try this recipe credit to 100daysofrealfood

Chicken Fajita Rice Skillet

This Tex-Mex inspired dish combines tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice in one skillet.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with fajita seasoning and salt.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell peppers, and garlic until softened.
6. Add rice and stir to coat with oil.
7. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
9. Add chicken back to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is heated through.
10. Serve with optional toppings if desired.

You can try this recipe image credit to creationsbykara

Chicken with Dates and Lemon

This Middle Eastern-inspired dish combines tender chicken with sweet dates and tangy lemon for a unique flavor profile.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.
3. Heat oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
4. Add chicken skin-side down and cook until browned.
5. Remove chicken and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
7. Add dates and lemon slices to the skillet.
8. Place chicken skin-side up on top of the date mixture.
9. Transfer skillet to the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
10. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Creamy One-Pot Chicken Recipes

Creamy One-Skillet Smothered Chicken Thighs

This indulgent dish features tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich, creamy sauce.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add chicken skin-side down and cook until browned.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
6. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
7. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
8. Return chicken to the skillet, skin-side up.
9. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce is thickened.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Chicken

This flavorful dish combines tender chicken with a creamy spinach and mushroom sauce.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms until softened.
6. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
7. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.
8. Bring to a simmer and return chicken to the skillet.
9. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce is thickened.
10. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

You can try this recipe image credit to thekitchencommunity

Healthy One-Pot Chicken Recipes

One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

This lighter version of chicken alfredo incorporates broccoli for added nutrition.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and basil.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5. Pour in milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Add fettuccine and broccoli.
7. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender and broccoli is crisp-tender.
8. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is creamy.

You can try this recipe image credit to kalejunkie

Chicken and Orzo with Broccoli

This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines lean chicken with orzo pasta and nutritious broccoli.

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5. Stir in orzo and chicken broth.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Add broccoli and continue simmering for 5-7 minutes until orzo is tender and broccoli is crisp-tender.
8. Stir in lemon zest and juice.
9. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese before serving.

You can try this recipe image credit to bakingmischief

Tips for One-Pot Chicken Dinners

Choosing the Right Pot or Pan

When selecting a pot or pan for one-pot chicken dinners, consider the following:

• Size: Choose a pot or pan large enough to accommodate all ingredients without overcrowding.
• Material: Cast iron, stainless steel, and enamel-coated Dutch ovens are excellent choices for even heat distribution.
• Depth: A deep pot or pan is ideal for recipes with sauces or broths.
• Oven-safe: For recipes that require finishing in the oven, ensure your pot or pan is oven-safe.

Layering Ingredients for Optimal Cooking

Proper layering of ingredients ensures even cooking and optimal flavor development:

1. Start with aromatics: Sauté onions, garlic, and other aromatics to build a flavor base.
2. Brown the chicken: This step adds depth of flavor and helps seal in juices.
3. Add longer-cooking vegetables: Root vegetables and other hardy produce should go in next.
4. Incorporate grains or pasta: Add rice, orzo, or other grains at this stage.
5. Pour in liquids: Add broth, wine, or other cooking liquids.
6. Top with quick-cooking vegetables: Add leafy greens or tender vegetables towards the end of cooking.

Adjusting Cooking Times for Different Ingredients

To ensure all ingredients are cooked properly:

• Start with longer-cooking items like chicken thighs or root vegetables.
• Add quicker-cooking ingredients like chicken breast or tender vegetables later in the cooking process.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Test grains and pasta for doneness before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper storage and reheating ensure leftovers remain safe and delicious:

• Cool leftovers quickly and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
• Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
• When reheating, ensure the dish reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to prevent drying out.

One-Pot Chicken Dinners for Different Diets

Keto One-Pot Chicken Recipes

For those following a ketogenic diet, try these low-carb one-pot chicken recipes:

1. Creamy Tuscan Chicken: Chicken thighs simmered in a rich, cream-based sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.
2. Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Skillet: A low-carb alternative to traditional chicken and rice dishes.
3. Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Mac and Cheese: A spicy, cheesy dish using cauliflower instead of pasta.

Gluten-Free One-Pot Chicken Recipes

For those avoiding gluten, consider these gluten-free one-pot chicken options:

1. Chicken and Quinoa Skillet: A protein-packed dish using gluten-free quinoa instead of wheat-based grains.
2. Lemon Garlic Chicken with Zucchini Noodles: A light and flavorful dish using spiralized zucchini instead of pasta.
3. Chicken and Sweet Potato Curry: A hearty, gluten-free curry served over rice or cauliflower rice.

One-Pot Chicken Dinner FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken in one-pot recipes?
   • It’s best to thaw chicken before using in one-pot recipes to ensure even cooking and food safety.
2. How do I prevent chicken from drying out in one-pot meals?
   • Use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for added moisture, or add chicken later in the cooking process for boneless cuts.
3. Can I substitute different vegetables in these recipes?
   • Yes, most one-pot chicken recipes are versatile and can accommodate various vegetable substitutions based on preference or availability.
4. How do I adjust cooking times for different types of rice?
   • Different rice varieties may require adjusted cooking times. Consult the package instructions and adjust liquid amounts accordingly.
5. Can I make these recipes in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
   • Many be adapted for slow cookers or pressure cookers. Adjust cooking times and liquid amounts as needed.

In conclusion, one-pot chicken dinner recipes offer a perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. These versatile dishes combine protein, vegetables, and grains in a single cooking vessel, making preparation and cleanup a breeze. From comforting classics to global-inspired flavors, there’s a one-pot chicken recipe for every taste and dietary preference. By following the tips for ingredient layering, cooking times, and proper storage, you can create delicious and satisfying meals with minimal effort.