As the aroma of sizzling garlic and smoked paprika wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel transported to a bustling Latin market filled with vibrant flavors. Today, I’m excited to share my One-Pot Adobo Chicken and Rice recipe, a culinary adventure that turns ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. This easy, family-friendly dish combines juicy chicken thighs with aromatic spices and fluffy rice, all coming together in a single pot for a hassle-free dinner. With its bold flavors and comforting embrace, it’s no wonder this meal quickly becomes a favorite around the table. Plus, you can effortlessly adapt it to suit your tastes! Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s get cooking! Why is Adobo Chicken and Rice a must-try? Simplicity Made Delicious: This One-Pot Adobo Chicken and Rice requires minimal effort with maximum flavor. Just toss everything into one pot and let it do the work! Bold, Smoky Flavors: The combination of chipotle chiles and smoked paprika delivers a uniquely rich taste that’ll impress your family and friends. Customizable Options: Whether you prefer tender chicken thighs or breasts, this dish adapts seamlessly to your preferences. You can even switch up the greens, opting for spinach or Swiss chard! Hearty and Nourishing: Packed with protein and vitamins from the chicken and kale, this recipe is not just satisfying—it’s nutritious too. Crowd-Pleaser: With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Pair it with a refreshing salad or enjoy it on its own! Adobo Chicken And Rice Ingredients For the Chicken Skinless, boneless chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful; substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option. Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing the flavors; adjust to your taste. Freshly ground black pepper – Provides a nice seasoning; use according to preference. Ground cumin – Adds warmth and depth to the dish; optional for milder flavor. Smoked paprika – Delivers a rich, smoky taste; regular paprika can work for less intensity. For the Rice Long-grain white rice – The hearty base for this dish; brown rice is an option but will require longer cooking. Extra-virgin olive oil – Adds richness for sautéing; feel free to substitute with another cooking oil if needed. Medium yellow onion – Offers sweetness and depth; shallots make a great substitute if on hand. Cloves garlic – Infuses the dish with beautiful flavor; add more if you’re a garlic lover. For the Flavor Chipotle chiles in adobo sauce – Provides distinctive heat and smokiness; adjust to your heat preference. Apple cider vinegar – Brings a lovely acidity to balance flavors; white vinegar can be used as a substitute. Low-sodium chicken broth – Pivotal for cooking the rice and giving it that rich flavor; vegetable broth can lighten it up. Dried oregano – Enhances the herbal notes; fresh oregano adds even more flavor. Garlic powder – Intensifies garlic flavor; omit if using fresh garlic. Onion powder – Deepens the taste; optional depending on preference. For the Greens Tuscan kale – Adds nutritional value and crunch; spinach is a great substitute if you prefer. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Adobo Chicken And Rice Step 1: Season the Chicken Start by seasoning the skinless, boneless chicken thighs with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Make sure to coat all sides evenly, allowing the flavors to absorb into the meat. Let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the ingredients for the One-Pot Adobo Chicken and Rice. Step 2: Sauté the Onions In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chopped medium yellow onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, around 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The aroma will fill your kitchen as the onions soften, providing a perfect base for your dish. Step 3: Add Garlic Once the onions are nicely sautéed, add minced cloves of garlic to the pot. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring gently to avoid burning. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your One-Pot Adobo Chicken and Rice. Be mindful of the garlic, as you want it to turn golden without browning. Step 4: Toast the Rice Next, pour in the long-grain white rice and stir well to combine it with the onion and garlic mixture. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to absorb some of the aromatic flavors. This vital step adds richness and enhances the overall taste of the Adobo Chicken and Rice. Step 5: Incorporate Liquids and Spices Slowly add 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, the chopped chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, dried oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder to the pot. Stir everything together to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, ensuring all ingredients meld beautifully for the upcoming cooking step. Step 6: Cook the Chicken and Rice Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Cover the pot with a lid, reduce to low heat, and let cook for about 30 minutes. The chicken will steam beautifully, and the rice will become tender and absorb all those delectable flavors of the Adobo Chicken and Rice. Step 7: Add the Greens In the last few minutes of cooking, add the chopped Tuscan kale to the pot. Stir gently to incorporate it into the dish, allowing it to wilt down for about 5 minutes. This adds both nutrition and a burst of color to your One-Pot Adobo Chicken and Rice, making it not just delicious but visually appealing. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy Once everything is cooked through and the rice is fluffy, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Serve your One-Pot Adobo Chicken and Rice hot, garnished with fresh herbs or lime wedges if desired. Relish in the vibrant flavors and comforting aroma, and enjoy a meal that feels like a warm hug. What to Serve with One-Pot Adobo Chicken and Rice Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that beautifully complement the bold flavors of this comforting dish. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture adds a rich, smooth contrast to the smoky spice of the chicken. The creaminess makes every bite comforting and indulgent. Zesty Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime brightens every mouthful, cutting through the richness of the dish while enhancing the vibrant flavors. Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens topped with a tangy vinaigrette offer a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty chicken and rice. It’s a light addition that rounds out the meal perfectly. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn adds a burst of natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch, making it a fun and nostalgic side for everyone. Sautéed Garlic Green Beans: Tender-crisp green beans cooked with garlic bring vibrant color and a healthful touch, pairing wonderfully with the adobo flavors. Spanish Flan: For dessert, this creamy, caramel-topped custard serves as a sweet ending, its silky texture contrasting beautifully with the dish’s spices. Chilled Sangria: A glass of fruity sangria complements the richness of the main dish, enhancing the overall dining experience with its refreshing notes. Expert Tips for Adobo Chicken And Rice Toast the Rice: Ensure to toast the rice for 2-3 minutes. This enhances flavor absorption, resulting in a more delicious Adobo Chicken and Rice. Monitor Chicken Breasts: If opting for chicken breasts instead of thighs, reduce cooking time to about 20 minutes. This helps prevent dryness and keeps the chicken juicy. Don’t Skip the Greens: Incorporating kale or spinach boosts nutrition and flavor. Add in the last few minutes of cooking to retain their vibrant color and crunch. Adjust the Heat: Start with fewer chipotle chiles and taste before adding more. This way, you can customize the heat level to suit your family’s preference. Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the dish to sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and the rice to firm up for a perfect presentation. Make Ahead Options These One-Pot Adobo Chicken and Rice are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken (with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika) and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, you can prepare the rice mixture (without adding the chicken) and store it in the fridge for 2-3 days. To maintain quality, make sure to keep the chicken and rice mixture in airtight containers. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the marinated chicken on top of the rice mixture in the pot, bring it to a simmer, and enjoy delicious, effortless results! Adobo Chicken And Rice Variations Feel free to unleash your creativity and put your personal twist on this comforting dish, making it uniquely yours! Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for leaner breasts; reduce cooking time to keep them juicy. Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with hearty chickpeas or tofu for a delightful plant-based version. Spice Lovers: Amp up the heat by adding more chipotle chiles or a dash of cayenne pepper. Flavor Boost: Incorporate a splash of lime juice before serving to brighten up those smoky flavors. Herbal Freshness: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an aromatic finishing touch. Rice Alternatives: Try using quinoa or riced cauliflower as a lighter grain option for a twist. Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers or zucchini while sautéing the onions for added color and nutrients. Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some shredded cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, right before serving for extra creaminess. If you’re intrigued by more delicious chicken recipes, you might also enjoy trying my Sticky Chicken Rice or the comforting flavors of Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Each variety beckons with unique flavors that are sure to please! Storage Tips for Adobo Chicken and Rice Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure to label it with the date! Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore moisture. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until warmed through. Avoiding Spoilage: Always ensure the Adobo Chicken and Rice is completely cooled before refrigerating or freezing to prevent bacterial growth. One-Pot Adobo Chicken and Rice Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! For this One-Pot Adobo Chicken and Rice, I recommend using skinless, boneless chicken thighs due to their juiciness and flavor. However, chicken breasts can be used if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that if you go this route, you’ll want to reduce the cooking time to about 20 minutes to prevent them from drying out. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Very! To keep your delicious Adobo Chicken and Rice fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the rice seems a bit dry. This will help restore the moisture for a delightful reheating experience. Can I freeze Adobo Chicken and Rice? Absolutely! To freeze your One-Pot Adobo Chicken and Rice, first let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, label it with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently over low heat, ensuring it’s heated through. You can also add a splash of broth during reheating to keep it moist and delicious. What should I do if my rice is undercooked? If you find that your rice is undercooked after the initial cooking time, don’t worry! Simply add a bit more broth or water to the pot, cover it, and let it simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Keeping the pot covered is key; this retains moisture and allows the rice to cook properly without overcooking the chicken. Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions or allergies? The more the merrier! This One-Pot Adobo Chicken and Rice can be customized to fit various dietary needs. If you or your loved ones have gluten allergies, ensure to check that your chicken broth is gluten-free. For a vegetarian version, simply substitute the chicken with cooked beans or additional vegetables and use vegetable broth. Just ensure to adjust cooking times for plant-based proteins accordingly. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern! Unlock Flavor with This Easy Adobo Chicken and Rice Recipe Adobo Chicken And Rice is a one-pot dish that combines flavorful chicken thighs, spices, and fluffy rice, making a family-friendly meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: LatinCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 lb skinless, boneless chicken thighs Juicy and flavorful; substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.1 tsp kosher salt Essential for enhancing the flavors; adjust to your taste.1 tsp freshly ground black pepper Provides a nice seasoning; use according to preference.1 tsp ground cumin Adds warmth and depth to the dish; optional for milder flavor.1 tsp smoked paprika Delivers a rich, smoky taste; regular paprika can work for less intensity.For the Rice1 cup long-grain white rice The hearty base for this dish; brown rice is an option but will require longer cooking.2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil Adds richness for sautéing; feel free to substitute with another cooking oil if needed.1 medium yellow onion Offers sweetness and depth; shallots make a great substitute if on hand.3 cloves garlic Infuses the dish with beautiful flavor; add more if you're a garlic lover.For the Flavor1 can chipotle chiles in adobo sauce Provides distinctive heat and smokiness; adjust to your heat preference.1/4 cup apple cider vinegar Brings a lovely acidity to balance flavors; white vinegar can be used as a substitute.4 cups low-sodium chicken broth Pivotal for cooking the rice and giving it that rich flavor; vegetable broth can lighten it up.1 tbsp dried oregano Enhances the herbal notes; fresh oregano adds even more flavor.1 tsp garlic powder Intensifies garlic flavor; omit if using fresh garlic.1 tsp onion powder Deepens the taste; optional depending on preference.For the Greens2 cups Tuscan kale Adds nutritional value and crunch; spinach is a great substitute if you prefer. Equipment Large pot Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsStep 1: Season the Chicken - Start by seasoning the skinless, boneless chicken thighs with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Let marinate for about 10 minutes.Step 2: Sauté the Onions - Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped medium yellow onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.Step 3: Add Garlic - Add minced cloves of garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.Step 4: Toast the Rice - Add the long-grain white rice and stir well. Toast for 2-3 minutes.Step 5: Incorporate Liquids and Spices - Slowly add 4 cups of chicken broth, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, chipotle chiles, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir to combine.Step 6: Cook the Chicken and Rice - Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Cover and cook on low heat for about 30 minutes.Step 7: Add the Greens - In the last few minutes, add the chopped Tuscan kale and stir gently.Step 8: Serve and Enjoy - Once everything is cooked, let sit for 5 minutes, then serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3mg NotesEnsure to toast the rice for 2-3 minutes for enhanced flavor absorption. Adjust cooking time if using chicken breasts instead of thighs. Incorporate greens last for vibrant color. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
