If you’re looking for a meal that’s hearty, budget-friendly, and loved by the whole family, chicken and rice recipes are the way to go!
From cozy one-pot dinners to quick skillet meals, this dish has endless possibilities.
With just simple pantry staples—juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a few seasonings—you can create a restaurant-style meal right at home.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Perfect for: Families, busy weeknights, meal prep lovers, and anyone craving comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 40 minutes.
- One-Pot Wonder – Less mess, fewer dishes.
- Customizable – Add your favorite spices, veggies, or swap proteins.
- Meal-Prep Friendly – Stores well for busy days ahead.
- Comfort in Every Bite – Warm, filling, and satisfying.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need for a classic chicken and rice recipe:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- 1 pound (450g) chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (substitute: brown rice, but increase cooking time)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup carrots and peas (or any mixed veggies you like)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Substitutions:
- Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier results.
- Swap olive oil for butter or ghee.
- Replace peas/carrots with bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Recipes
- Heat oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until lightly browned (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic in the same pot until fragrant.
- Add rice and toast for 1–2 minutes to bring out a nutty flavor.
- Pour in broth and stir well. Scrape any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
- Mix in veggies and seasonings.
- Return chicken to the pot, cover with a lid, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender.
- Fluff rice with a fork, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor: Add a splash of soy sauce or lemon juice before serving.
- Make it creamy: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
- Protein swap: Try turkey, beef strips, or shrimp instead of chicken.
- Cooking method: This recipe works in an Instant Pot (12 minutes high pressure) or an oven-baked casserole (375°F for 35–40 minutes).
- Avoid mushy rice: Keep the lid on while cooking—no peeking!
What to Serve It With
- Fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables (broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus)
- Garlic bread or naan
- Cucumber yogurt dip for a refreshing side
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition Info (per serving, approx)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
(Values vary based on substitutions and add-ins.)
📝 Printable Recipe Card
Chicken and Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken thighs/breasts, cubed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots & peas
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (garnish)
Instructions
- Heat oil, brown chicken, set aside.
- Sauté onion & garlic.
- Add rice, toast lightly.
- Stir in broth, veggies, and spices.
- Add chicken back, cover & simmer 20 mins.
- Fluff rice, garnish, and serve.
FAQs About Chicken and Rice Recipes
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Just add 15–20 extra minutes of cooking time and more broth if needed.
2. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
3. What’s the best chicken cut to use?
Boneless chicken thighs stay juicier, but chicken breasts also work great.
4. Can I meal prep this?
Yes, it reheats beautifully and makes perfect packed lunches.
5. How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
Make sure there’s enough liquid, stir once before covering, and don’t lift the lid until cooking time is done.
Conclusion
Chicken and rice recipes are the ultimate comfort food—easy, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, prepping meals for the week, or simply craving something warm and satisfying, this dish will never disappoint. With endless variations and simple ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Henry Miles is a seasoned writer and content strategist with over a decade of experience in crafting engaging digital content. With a background in communication and media studies, he brings a deep understanding of audience psychology, storytelling, and online trends. His work often bridges the gap between informative clarity and creative expression, making complex topics accessible and enjoyable for readers of all backgrounds.
Known for his disciplined research and clean writing style, Henry has contributed to numerous blogs, educational platforms, and professional publications. When he’s not writing, he’s usually found exploring new literary techniques or mentoring aspiring content creators.
Henry is also the author of several well-received titles, including The Digital Mindset, Words That Connect, and Content Beyond Clicks—books that continue to inspire writers and marketers around the globe.
