When the evening sun dips below the horizon and the comforting sound of sizzling chicken fills my kitchen, I know I’m in for a delightful meal. This One-Pot Chicken Thighs and Potlikker Rice dish is a celebration of rich flavors and simplicity—everything I crave after a long day. The crispy skin on the chicken pairs perfectly with the soft, savory rice bathed in golden potlikker, while the collard greens add a touch of heartiness that wraps you in warmth.
What’s more impressive is that all this magic happens in just one pot! This recipe transforms homestyle cooking into a gourmet experience without the fuss of multiple dishes. It’s not just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table, share stories, and create lasting memories. If you’ve been searching for something extraordinary to bring excitement back into your weeknight dinners, this dish is the answer. Ready to awaken your taste buds? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Why will you love One-Pot Chicken Thighs And Potlikker Rice?
Simplicity: This recipe is a delightful one-pot wonder, allowing you to spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.
Rich Flavor: The melding of juicy chicken thighs with savory potlikker rice creates an irresistible flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Nutrient-Rich: Featuring collard greens, this dish is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering, this recipe caters to all and is sure to impress your guests!
Quick to Prepare: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, it’s the perfect solution for busy evenings when you crave homemade goodness.
Versatile: Feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite spices or vegetables – the possibilities are endless!
One-Pot Chicken Thighs And Potlikker Rice Ingredients
Get ready to gather these delightful ingredients to create a comforting masterpiece!
For the Chicken
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – These provide rich flavor and tenderness that keep you coming back for more.
- Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Black pepper – A little kick that complements the savory goodness.
For the Rice and Greens
- Potlikker – This flavorful broth is the star of the dish and adds depth to the rice.
- Cooked collard greens – Adding a hearty texture and nutritional boost to your meal.
- Uncooked Carolina Gold or jasmine rice – Choose your favorite for fluffy, aromatic rice that absorbs the potlikker beautifully.
For the Seasoning and Toppings
- Minced garlic – Fresh garlic infuses the dish with warmth and aroma.
- Benne seeds or sesame seeds – Lightly toasted, these add a nutty crunch to your finished dish.
- Dried garlic flakes – An extra layer of garlic flavor to enhance every bite.
- Crushed red pepper – Sprinkle in some heat for a little lovely spice!
For the Collard Green Chips
- Collard green leaves – Transform these into crispy chips for a delightful garnish and extra crunch.
- Olive oil – Helps the greens crisp up perfectly in the oven.
With all these ingredients lined up, you’re just moments away from crafting a memorable home-cooked meal with this One-Pot Chicken Thighs and Potlikker Rice!
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Thighs And Potlikker Rice
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Preheat the oven to 350°F, ensuring the racks are positioned in the middle and top third of the oven. This prepares the perfect environment for your dish!
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Prepare the collard greens by evenly dividing the pieces among 2 baking sheets. Brush both sides with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Bake until crispy, about 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Let them cool for about 15 minutes.
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Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large high-sided ovenproof skillet over medium heat until shimmering. This is the base for your savory chicken!
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Season the chicken thighs with black pepper and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Place the chicken, skin side down, in the hot oil. Cook until skin is golden brown and easily releases from the pan, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Flip the chicken and continue cooking until the bottom is lightly browned, about 1 to 2 minutes, then transfer to a plate.
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Add the minced garlic to the drippings in the skillet; cook until fragrant and lightly browned, about 30 seconds. This step packs your dish with delicious flavor!
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Combine the potlikker, cooked collard greens, rice, and the remaining 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt into the skillet. Nestle the browned chicken, skin side up, in the rice mixture. Bring to a boil over high heat.
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Cover the skillet and transfer it to the top rack of the oven. Bake until the rice is just tender and a thermometer inserted into the chicken reads 165°F, for about 20 minutes.
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Remove the lid from the skillet and increase the oven temperature to broil. Broil until the chicken skin is crispy, roughly 5 minutes. This adds that irresistible crunch!
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Crush the baked collard green chips, benne seeds, dried garlic flakes, and crushed red pepper in a mortar until the mixture reaches a flaky consistency. This will be your delightful topping!
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Serve by fluffing the rice with a fork and sprinkling 1/4 cup of the crushed collard green mixture over the chicken and rice in the skillet. Divide among plates and top with additional crushed collard green mixture, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with extra toasted benne seeds for added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for One-Pot Chicken Thighs And Potlikker Rice
- Prep Ahead: Consider rinsing the rice and prepping the collard greens in advance. This saves time on busy nights, making your cooking experience smoother.
- Crispy Skin Secret: Ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. This helps achieve a beautifully crispy skin and locks in moisture.
- Don’t Rush the Bake: Allow the rice and chicken to bake undisturbed for the full 20 minutes for the best texture. Removing the lid too soon can result in undercooked rice.
- Monitor the Broil: Broiling adds that crunchy touch, but keep an eye on it! Broil for a maximum of 5 minutes to prevent burning.
- Customize Your Greens: Experiment with different greens like kale or mustard greens if collard greens aren’t available. They add unique flavors while keeping the dish nutrient-rich.
- Flavor Boost: For enhanced taste, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar before serving. It brightens the flavors and complements the richness of the One-Pot Chicken Thighs and Potlikker Rice.
How to Store and Freeze One-Pot Chicken Thighs And Potlikker Rice
Fridge: Store leftover One-Pot Chicken Thighs and Potlikker Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps your meal fresh and ready to enjoy again!
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to rehydrate the rice. Enjoy your comforting meal all over again!
Room Temperature: It’s best not to leave this dish out for more than 2 hours at room temperature to ensure food safety and maintain its flavorful quality.
One-Pot Chicken Thighs And Potlikker Rice Variations
Customize your dish to suit your taste buds and pantry with these flavorful twists!
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the rice mixture for an aromatic boost.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the crushed red pepper or add fresh chili peppers for a fiery flavor adventure.
- Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the rice before baking to brighten the dish with a refreshing citrus note.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with hearty mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of potlikker.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese just before serving for a creamy, indulgent finish.
- Nutty Twist: Mix in slivered almonds or chopped pecans with the benne seeds for added crunch and flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: Toss in chopped dried apricots or raisins during the cooking process to balance the savory notes.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika or add bits of cooked bacon for a delightful smoky edge to the dish.
Let your creativity shine and fill your kitchen with comforting aromas as you create your personalized version of this wonderful recipe!
Make Ahead Options
These One-Pot Chicken Thighs And Potlikker Rice are a fantastic choice for meal prep lovers! You can season and brown the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them refrigerated to maintain their fresh flavor. Additionally, the rice and potlikker mixture can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to cook, simply nestle the browned chicken into the rice mixture, cover, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting and delicious meal with minimal effort, saving precious time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with One-Pot Chicken Thighs And Potlikker Rice?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing your One-Pot wonder with delightful sides that compliment its rich flavors.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these fries contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken and rice, adding an extra layer of yum!
- Fresh Garden Salad: A simple toss of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brightens the meal with freshness, balancing the hearty flavors.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Cooked with a touch of garlic and olive oil, these crunchy veggies add a delightful pop of color and texture to your plate.
- Cornbread Muffins: Their crumbly sweetness beautifully complements the savory depth of potlikker rice and wraps the meal in Southern charm.
- Grilled Peach Salad: Juicy, grilled peaches paired with arugula, feta, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze introduce a refreshing twist that dances in harmony with your main dish.
- Peach Iced Tea: A sweet and refreshing drink option that cools your palate and enhances the comforting nature of the meal.
- Buttermilk Biscuit: Fluffy and buttery, they are perfect to soak up any extra potlikker, enriching every bite of the dish, making it even more indulgent.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies that offer a delightful contrast after the savory main course.
With these pairings, your dinner table will be filled with warmth, flavor, and joy, making every bite a celebration!
One-Pot Chicken Thighs And Potlikker Rice Recipe FAQs
What kind of collard greens should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh, vibrant collard greens are best for this dish. Look for leaves that are deep green and free from dark spots or wilting. If fresh collard greens aren’t available, you can use frozen ones; just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding them.
How long can I store leftovers of One-Pot Chicken Thighs and Potlikker Rice?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist!
Can I freeze One-Pot Chicken Thighs and Potlikker Rice?
Definitely! For freezing, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet—don’t forget the splash of water to bring it back to life!
What if the chicken skin doesn’t get crispy?
If your chicken skin isn’t crispy as desired, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. Broiling at the end for around 5 minutes helps with crispiness; just keep an eye on it to avoid burning. If the skin still isn’t crisp, you might need to increase the broiling time very slightly while watching closely.
Is this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Great question! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if you have allergies, be mindful of the ingredients. If you’re concerned about sodium intake, you can reduce the kosher salt used or opt for low-sodium alternatives. It’s also advisable to avoid serving to pets due to the high amounts of garlic, which can be harmful to them.
Can I substitute the rice type?
The good news is you can absolutely swap out the rice! If you prefer brown rice for its health benefits, just remember it will require a bit more water and longer cooking time—about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you could use other types of long-grain rice but will need to adjust the water amounts. The key is getting the right texture—fluffy and flavorful!
Savory One-Pot Chicken Thighs and Potlikker Rice Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F, ensuring the racks are positioned in the middle and top third of the oven.
- Prepare the collard greens by evenly dividing the pieces among 2 baking sheets. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Bake until crispy, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Heat remaining olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Season chicken thighs with black pepper and kosher salt. Place in the hot oil and cook until skin is golden brown, about 8 to 10 minutes. Flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, then transfer to a plate.
- Add minced garlic to the drippings in the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Combine potlikker, cooked collard greens, rice, and remaining kosher salt in the skillet. Nestle chicken in the rice mixture, bring to a boil.
- Cover the skillet and transfer it to the top rack of the oven. Bake until rice is tender and chicken reads 165°F, about 20 minutes.
- Remove the lid and increase oven temperature to broil. Broil until chicken skin is crispy, roughly 5 minutes.
- Crush collard green chips, benne seeds, dried garlic flakes, and crushed red pepper in a mortar until flaky.
- Serve by fluffing the rice and sprinkling crushed collard green mixture over the chicken and rice. Divide among plates.