Chicken and Rice with Mushrooms

Chicken and Rice with Mushrooms is the perfect one-pan meal that brings comfort and nutrition together in a single dish. Combining tender chicken thighs, hearty brown rice, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant peas, this recipe delivers a balanced, flavorful meal ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home. The savory blend of garlic, onions, and herbs elevates the dish with layers of depth that are satisfying yet simple to achieve.

What sets this recipe apart is how it masterfully fuses convenience and health. Brown rice provides a nutty texture and a dose of whole-grain goodness, while mushrooms offer umami richness that amplifies the taste of the entire dish. Rosemary and thyme add an aromatic touch, tying all the ingredients together into a warming, home-cooked experience.

Not only is this recipe deeply comforting, but it’s also adaptable and scalable—perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or sharing with guests. It’s made in one pot, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this chicken and rice with mushrooms dish will quickly become a go-to favorite in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pot Convenience – Minimal cleanup makes this an easy and practical choice for any night of the week.
2. Nutritious and Balanced – With lean protein, whole grains, and vegetables, this is a complete, wholesome meal.
3. Deep, Savory Flavor – Mushrooms, herbs, and garlic bring robust umami and aromatic notes to the dish.
4. Customizable and Versatile – You can tweak ingredients to suit dietary needs or what you have on hand.
5. Great for Meal Prep – Stores and reheats well, making it perfect for batch cooking.

Ingredients

• Canola oil
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper
• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Yellow onion
• Button mushrooms
• Chicken broth
• Brown rice
• Frozen green peas
• Dried rosemary
• Dried thyme
• Fresh garlic

Variations

• Protein Options: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breast, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Grain Substitutes: Use white rice, quinoa, or couscous depending on preference or cooking time.
• Add Cheese: Stir in some grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar at the end for a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in spinach, kale, or diced bell peppers for extra vegetables.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Season and Cook Chicken

In a large pan, heat half of the canola oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sear chicken pieces until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms

Add the remaining oil to the same pan. Sauté chopped onion until soft and translucent. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs

Stir in the diced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the uncooked brown rice. Bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Return Chicken and Cook

Return the chicken to the pan. Cover, reduce heat, and let it simmer for about 40–45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 6: Add Peas

Stir in the thawed peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Let the rice simmer with the lid on to trap steam and cook evenly.
• For quicker prep, use pre-sliced mushrooms and pre-chopped onions.
• Don’t lift the lid too often while the rice cooks—this can release steam and increase cooking time.
• Add a splash of broth at the end if the rice absorbs too much liquid before it’s fully cooked.

How to Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread. You can also serve it with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid as white rice cooks faster and needs less broth.

2. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely. Chicken breast works well but may be slightly less juicy than thighs.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

4. Can I make it in an Instant Pot?

Yes, sauté ingredients first using the Sauté function, then pressure cook for about 22 minutes with brown rice.

5. How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid overcooking. Keep the lid on while simmering.

6. What mushrooms work best?

Button mushrooms are great, but cremini or portobello mushrooms can add even more flavor.

7. Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, Parmesan or mozzarella can be stirred in at the end for added creaminess.

8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and no longer be pink inside.

9. Can I prepare this ahead for meal prep?

Yes, it’s ideal for meal prep. Divide into portions and refrigerate or freeze.

10. What can I use instead of canola oil?

You can substitute with olive oil, avocado oil, or any neutral cooking oil.

Conclusion

Chicken and Rice with Mushrooms is a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With wholesome ingredients, simple steps, and room for customization, it’s a recipe that fits a variety of lifestyles and preferences. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a nourishing meal prep option, this dish delivers satisfying results every time.

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