1. Hearty Chicken and Rice Skillet
There’s something deeply comforting about a classic chicken and rice dish. It’s a complete meal in one pan that tastes like it took hours to make. [7, 8] To start, season chicken pieces and brown them in a large skillet or pot before setting them aside.
[8] In the same pan, sauté some aromatic vegetables like onions, garlic, and perhaps some chopped carrots or bell peppers. [7, 14] Stir in your rice, pour in chicken or vegetable broth, and then nestle the chicken back on top. [9, 10] Cover the pot and let it simmer until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed all the flavourful liquid and the chicken is cooked through. [7] The result is tender chicken and perfectly seasoned rice, a true rainy-day hero.
2. Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
One-pot pasta is a game-changer for anyone who dreads washing multiple pans. [11] The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing all the flavours and releasing starches that create a luxuriously creamy texture without much effort. [4, 11] For a simple version, combine uncooked pasta, chopped tomatoes, garlic, onions, and vegetable broth in a large pot. [6, 13] Bring it all to a boil and then simmer, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. [11] In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in a generous handful of fresh spinach and perhaps a splash of cream or some cream cheese to make it extra rich. [5] Finish with a sprinkle of cheese for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
3. Warming Red Lentil Curry
Nothing fights off the damp chill of a rainy day quite like a warm, spicy curry. A red lentil curry is not only vegan and packed with protein, but it also comes together beautifully in a single pot. [3] Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger with your favourite curry spices. Add the red lentils, a can of coconut milk, and some vegetable broth. Let it all simmer away for about 20-25 minutes until the lentils are soft and have thickened into a rich, stew-like consistency. You can throw in other vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots at the beginning for a more substantial meal. It’s a flexible, flavourful, and incredibly simple dish that fills the whole house with an amazing aroma.
4. Rustic Sausage and Vegetable Medley
For a meal that’s both rustic and requires very little prep, a one-pan sausage and vegetable roast is perfect. While often done on a sheet pan in the oven, it works just as well in a large skillet on the stovetop. [1] Simply brown some sliced sausage (chorizo or a smoked sausage works wonderfully) in a pan. Add hearty vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. [1] Season everything generously with herbs like oregano or thyme, add a small amount of broth or water, cover, and let it cook until the vegetables are tender. The fat from the sausage renders down to create a delicious base that coats all the vegetables, making for an incredibly flavourful and satisfying meal.
