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Bowl of anti-inflammatory chicken and rice soup with turmeric and ginger.

One Pot Chicken and Rice

A cozy, gut-friendly one pot dinner that combines chicken and rice with anti-inflammatory ingredients for a satisfying meal that supports digestion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the chicken and rice
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts Thighs remain juicy; breasts should be cut into larger pieces.
  • 1 cup jasmine rice Rinse the rice before cooking.
  • 4 cups low sodium chicken broth Can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil For sautéing.
  • 2 tsp turmeric For color and flavor.
  • 1 tsp black pepper Enhances absorption of turmeric.
  • 1 tsp paprika Optional, for added flavor.
  • 1 cup chopped carrots For sweetness and color.
  • 1 cup chopped zucchini Cooks quickly and is gentle on the stomach.
  • 2 cups baby spinach Stirred in at the end to retain color and nutrients.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice To brighten the dish before serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season the chicken: Pat it dry and season with salt, turmeric, black pepper, and paprika.
  2. Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a pot, then sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side to build flavor.
  3. Soften the vegetables: Add chopped carrots and zucchini to the pot with a pinch of salt. Stir for 2 minutes.
  4. Toast the rice: Stir in rinsed rice for about 30 seconds to coat in oil and spices.
  5. Add broth: Pour in the broth, scrape the bottom of the pot, and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Nestle chicken: Place the chicken back in, cover, and turn heat to low. Do not stir.
  7. Cook and rest: Cook for about 15 minutes for white rice or jasmine, longer for brown. Turn off heat and let sit covered for 10 minutes.
  8. Finish: Stir in spinach, squeeze lemon, taste for salt, and add fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For gut-friendly meal prep, portion chicken and rice with fresh vegetables and top with lemon juice and olive oil upon reheating. Avoid heavy cream, ultra-spicy heat, and processed ingredients that can trigger bloating.