Quick One-Pot Meals for a Stress-Free Dinner
Preparing dinner doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. One-pot meals are a great way to enjoy a delicious, hearty dish with minimal cleanup. These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without the hassle. Here’s a simple guide to making a quick one-pot meal that works well with an air fryer or stove.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, peas, and carrots)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or an air fryer-safe pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken starts to brown on all sides.
- Stir in the rice and mixed vegetables, making sure everything is well combined.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- If using an air fryer, transfer the mixture to an air fryer-safe dish and cook at 360°F (182°C) for about 10 minutes after simmering to get a slight crisp on top.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips or Variations
- Swap chicken for sausage, tofu, or shrimp to change up the protein.
- Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture.
- Add spices like cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- If you prefer more veggies, toss in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- For a creamier dish, stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream before the final simmer.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated easily for quick meals the next day.
