Imagine a single pot that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that will have your entire family rushing to the dinner table! This Chicken Dinner in a Pot is not just a recipe, it's a culinary magic trick that combines tender, golden-brown chicken with perfectly cooked vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. Whether you're a busy parent, a home cook looking for an easy weeknight meal, or someone craving a hearty and satisfying dinner, this one-pot wonder will become your new go-to recipe that promises maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, potatoes)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting it dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and brown the chicken pieces until golden on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the chicken pieces to the pot and add the mixed vegetables around the chicken.
- Sprinkle dried thyme over the chicken and vegetables. Pour chicken broth into the pot, ensuring it covers about two-thirds of the chicken and vegetables.
- Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. The resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful chicken.
- Serve hot, spooning the vegetables and broth around the chicken pieces directly from the pot.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pot: A heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or cast-iron pot is crucial for even heat distribution and perfect browning.
- Pat the Chicken Dry: This simple step ensures a beautiful golden crust when browning the chicken pieces.
- Don't Rush the Browning: Take your time to brown the chicken, as this step builds deep flavor for the entire dish.
- Layer Flavors: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding chicken creates a flavor base that elevates the entire meal.
- Use Fresh Vegetables: While frozen can work, fresh vegetables will give the best texture and flavor.
- Check Chicken Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Let It Rest: The 5-10 minute resting period is key to keeping the chicken moist and juicy.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to swap in seasonal or favorite vegetables to make this recipe your own.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
