Easy Haitian-Inspired Chicken and Rice Skillet

Ingredients

• 1.5 poundsBoneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1.5 cupsLong-grain white rice
• 1 mediumYellow onion, diced
• 1 mediumBell pepper (any color), diced
• 3 clovesGarlic, minced
• 2 tablespoonsTomato paste
• 1 teaspoonDried thyme
• 0.5 teaspoonDried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoonSmoked paprika
• 0.3 teaspoonCumin
• 3 cupsChicken broth
• 2 tablespoonsOlive oil
• 0.8 teaspoonSalt
• 0.5 teaspoonBlack pepper
• 2 tablespoonsFresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. 1

   Pat chicken thighs dry and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Set aside.

   ⏱ 5 min
2. 2

   Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. The chicken doesn't need to be fully cooked through at this stage. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

   ⏱ 7 min
3. 3

   Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion and bell pepper to the same skillet, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and cumin. Stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant.

   ⏱ 8 min
4. 4

   Stir in the long-grain rice, ensuring it's well coated with the aromatics and spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes.

   ⏱ 2 min
5. 5

   Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and add the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

   ⏱ 3 min
6. 6

   Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly with a lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during this time.

   ⏱ 20 min
7. 7

   Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, still covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become perfectly fluffy.

   ⏱ 5 min
8. 8

   Uncover, fluff the rice with a fork, and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

   ⏱ 1 min