If you are craving a dish that combines convenience, bold flavors, and comforting textures, look no further than this One Pot Chinese Chicken and Rice Recipe. It’s a beautiful harmony of tender chicken, fragrant garlic and ginger, fresh Chinese broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice all melded together in one pot for a fuss-free meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. This recipe is your new go-to for busy weeknights when you want a homemade dinner that is both impressive and effortless.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this One Pot Chinese Chicken and Rice Recipe plays a crucial role in building a rich, savory, and colorful dish. From the umami-packed sauces to the fresh veggies, every element brings its own magic to the pot.
- 1 tbsp oil: Use a neutral oil that can withstand medium-high heat for sautéing and developing a nice golden crust on the chicken.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds an aromatic base that infuses the entire dish with warmth and depth.
- 1 tsp grated ginger: Provides a zesty, slightly spicy brightness that lifts the flavors.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and body, softening to create a tender bed for the rice.
- 500g skinless boneless chicken thighs, halved: Juicy and flavorful, thighs stay tender and don’t dry out during cooking.
- 1 big bunch Chinese broccoli with thick stems: The hearty stems add crunch and earthiness, while the leafy parts soften beautifully on top.
- 1 cup (180g) uncooked white rice: Absorbs all the delicious broth and sauces to become perfectly fluffy and tasty.
- 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) low-salt chicken broth: Adds richness and moisture, keeping the rice tender and infused with flavor.
- 2 small garlic cloves, chopped: A second garlic addition for more intense aroma later in the cooking process.
- 2 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (or Mirin): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth typical of Chinese cuisine.
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce (or Hoisin): Brings savory, slightly sweet umami that makes the dish irresistible.
- 1 1/2 tbsp dark soy sauce: Contributes saltiness and a deep color to the rice and chicken.
- 1/4 tsp white or black pepper: A gentle spice that balances the flavors without overpowering them.
- Green onion, sliced: For freshness and crunch as a finishing touch.
- Sesame seeds: Adds nuttiness and a lovely visual accent on top of the dish.
How to Make One Pot Chinese Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing the oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, white pepper, chopped garlic, and any reserved liquids in a large bowl. Add the chicken thighs, toss well to coat, and let them marinate for at least 10 minutes or even overnight if you want an extra punch of flavor. This step is crucial because it tenderizes the meat and infuses it with the savory-sweet sauce that defines this dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Chinese Broccoli
While the chicken marinates, wash your Chinese broccoli thoroughly. Chop the thick stems into 2.5 cm (1 inch) pieces and the leafy parts a bit larger at around 5 cm (2 inches). This way, the stems will have time to cook through, and the leaves will remain tender and vibrant when added later.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat the tablespoon of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from its marinade, shaking off any excess but keeping the marinade handy for later. Place the chicken in the hot pot and cook each side for about 90 seconds until golden brown but not burnt. The goal here is to develop flavor and seal in juices, so don’t rush this step. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
If the pot looks dry, add a splash more oil, then toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes until the mixture is soft and golden, releasing wonderful aromas. These aromatics build the flavor foundation for the rice and tie everything together beautifully.
Step 5: Toast the Rice and Add Liquids
Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir constantly to coat every grain in the flavorful oil and aromatics. This step adds a lovely nuttiness to the texture. Next, pour in the chicken broth, reserved marinade, and Chinese broccoli stems. Give everything a gentle stir to combine but be careful not to disturb the rice too much or it may become mushy.
Step 6: Simmer with Chicken on Top
Arrange the seared chicken evenly across the top of the rice mixture, including any juices that have collected on the plate. Cover the pot tightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then lower the heat to medium and cook for 12 to 15 minutes or until the liquid has been fully absorbed. You can tilt the pot to check if the rice looks tender and no excess liquid remains.
Step 7: Add the Chinese Broccoli Leaves and Rest
Remove the pot from heat and quickly scatter the Chinese broccoli leaves across the top before clamping the lid back on. Let the dish rest, covered, for 10 minutes to allow the greens to steam gently and the rice to finish fluffing up. This resting step is key for perfect texture and vibrant colors.
Step 8: Toss and Serve
After the resting period, take off the lid and gently toss everything together to evenly distribute the broccoli leaves and mix the chicken with the rice. Sprinkle generously with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. A little chili paste on the side will add a lovely kick if you’re feeling adventurous. Your One Pot Chinese Chicken and Rice Recipe is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve One Pot Chinese Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh green onions add texture, contrast, and a pop of color that makes this dish look as good as it tastes. Don’t skip the chili paste if you like a little heat—its fiery warmth complements the savory-sweet sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe is wonderfully satisfying as a complete meal, but you could serve it alongside a simple Asian cucumber salad or some steamed dumplings to make the feast even more special. A light bowl of miso soup would also play nicely as a gentle palate cleanser.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish family-style in a large clay pot to keep it warm at the table and encourage everyone to dig in together. Alternatively, plate individual portions in shallow bowls with an extra drizzle of soy sauce or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken stays tender, and the rice retains a lot of its moisture, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish in portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers and leave some space at the top for expansion. When thawed, the vegetables may be softer, but the flavors will still shine through beautifully.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating the chicken to keep it juicy.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add nuttier flavor and more fiber, but you may need to increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes and add a little more liquid to ensure it cooks through.
What if I don’t have Chinese broccoli?
No worries! You can substitute with regular broccoli or even kale. Just adjust the cooking times slightly since these greens vary in toughness.
Is dark soy sauce different from regular soy sauce?
Yes, dark soy sauce is thicker, less salty, and slightly sweeter than regular soy sauce. It also adds a rich color to dishes, which is great for presentation in this recipe.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms, and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. Use vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms to keep the flavor deep.
What’s the best way to avoid the rice sticking to the pot?
Use a heavy-bottomed pot and keep the heat moderate when cooking. Stirring the rice only when instructed and using enough oil helps create a protective coating around the grains, minimizing sticking.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Chinese Chicken and Rice Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a warm hug in a bowl—easy, satisfying, and packed with vibrant tastes that make weeknight dinners truly special. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience just how irresistible one-pot magic can be!
