One Pot Whole Roasted Chicken With Spanish Rice

Published 9/8/2023 This recipe is a game-changer! It’s all about getting that juicy roasted chicken and zesty rice together in one pot, with minimal cleanup. Plus, we’re giving a nod to convenience with boxed rice and frozen veggies, so you get max flavor with way less effort. It’s old-school taste with today’s busy-cook vibe. One of our most popular chicken recipes on Fit Foodie Finds is our classic chicken and rice recipe. This recipe was born out of or love for one-pot meals, a spin-off of the classic chicken and rice recipe, and our love for flavor.

What’s in this one-pot chicken recipe?

Whole Chicken: The centerpiece! When roasted, this chicken gets incredibly tender and succulent, soaking up all the amazing flavors. Zatarains Spanish Rice Mix: An instant flavor booster. This rice mix brings zest and flair to the dish without needing a ton of additional spices. Avocado Oil: A healthier and more flavorful alternative to regular cooking oils. It handles heat well and gives the chicken a nice brown crust. Frozen Pepper, Onion, and Corn Mix: A genius hack for adding texture, color, and veggie goodness without the fuss of chopping everything up. Fresh Cilantro and Lime: These give the finishing touch with their fresh burst of flavor, brightening up the whole dish.

Substitutions & Variations

Zatarains Spanish Rice Mix: If you can’t find Zatarains or prefer another type, any boxed rice mix with a similar flavor profile can work. Or make your own using white rice seasoned with tomatoes, bell peppers, and your favorite spices. Avocado Oil: Can’t find avocado oil? Olive oil or even canola oil can work as a replacement. Just keep in mind the potential flavor differences. Frozen Pepper, Onion, and Corn Mix: If you’ve got fresh veggies lying around, go ahead and use those! Fresh bell peppers, onions, and corn kernels would be amazing. Alternatively, other frozen mixed vegetables like a stir-fry mix can work in a pinch. Fresh Cilantro and Lime: If cilantro isn’t your thing (or someone says it tastes like soap!), you can use fresh parsley. For the lime, lemon is a good alternative, but remember it’s a tad stronger, so adjust to taste.

Storage

Divide into Smaller Portions: If you have a significant amount left over, consider dividing the dish into smaller portions to allow it to cool down faster. This can be done using shallow containers. Dutch Oven Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the chicken and rice to airtight containers. This will help prevent moisture loss, which can affect the texture and flavor, and also prevent contamination from other foods. Storage Duration: Leftover cooked chicken and rice can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

Freezer Directions

Cool Completely Before Freezing: Make sure the chicken and rice are entirely cool before transferring them to the freezer. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to store the chicken and rice. Remove as much air as possible from bags to prevent freezer burn. Label and date your food before placing it in the freezer. The chicken and rice dish can last for up to 2-3 months.