When it comes to quick and easy dinners, few combinations are as reliable as chicken and rice. Whether you’re a busy professional or a family on-the-go, these two ingredients can be paired with a multitude of flavors and spices to create a delicious meal in no time. In fact, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering chicken and rice recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights – from classic comfort food to international twists. From the comforting warmth of creamy lemon chicken and rice casserole to the bold flavors of spicy Cajun chicken and rice, there’s something on this list for every taste bud.
In this article, we’ll be exploring a wide range of recipes that showcase the versatility and convenience of chicken and rice. Whether you’re looking for a one-pot wonder or a flavorful casserole, we’ve got you covered with these 20 flavorful chicken and rice recipes.
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful and effortless one-pot meal that combines the richness of garlic butter with tender chicken and creamy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add rice to skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return chicken to skillet and stir to coat with the rice mixture.
7. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice Casserole
This casserole is a bright and flavorful twist on traditional comfort food, featuring tender chicken, creamy lemon sauce, and savory rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, lemon juice, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer cooked rice, then the chicken mixture, and finally another layer of rice.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic chicken and rice with this Spicy Cajun recipe! This dish combines the bold flavors of Louisiana’s Cajun country with spicy kick, perfect for those who love a little heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add diced onion and minced garlic to skillet; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and hot sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Return chicken to skillet and toss with the spicy mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve chicken on top of cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
This recipe is a flavorful and convenient one-pot meal that combines juicy chicken, savory teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the teriyaki sauce and cooked rice. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice with Feta
A classic Greek-inspired dish that combines the brightness of lemon, the savory flavor of chicken, and the tanginess of feta cheese all on a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic, lemon juice, and oregano to skillet. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cooked rice to skillet, stirring to combine with lemon mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Return chicken to skillet and stir to combine with rice mixture.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Sprinkle feta cheese on top of chicken and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken and Wild Rice Soup!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, wild rice, chicken broth, onion, garlic, peas, and thyme in a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir in any remaining liquid before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Serves: 4-6
Mexican Chicken and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Mexico with the comfort of chicken and rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, rice, black beans, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken and Rice
This recipe combines the warmth of coconut milk with the spiciness of curry powder, creating a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the coconut milk and cooked chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the chicken and sauce over the cooked rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Bake
A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and cheese with a hearty serving of rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, milk, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Pilaf
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the warmth of the Mediterranean with the comfort of a hearty pilaf. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice with Mushrooms
This comforting dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory mushrooms in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: heavy cream or half-and-half for extra creaminess
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken, cooking until browned (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the mushrooms, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; cook until mushrooms are tender (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Stir in the rice, chicken broth, and any optional creaminess.
5. Close the lid, set valve to “Sealing”, and press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 8-10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken and Rice Bowl
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this spicy and aromatic chicken dish, served over fluffy coconut-infused rice. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together chicken, jerk seasoning, and garlic powder. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Heat coconut oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Add rice, water, and salt to the pot. Stir well, cover, and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Thai Basil Chicken and Rice Stir-Fry
This classic Thai-inspired dish combines the flavors of juicy chicken, fragrant basil, and savory rice in a quick and easy stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, ginger, bell peppers, curry paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the ingredients.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves and green onions (if using).
8. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken and Rice Roll-Ups
A flavorful twist on traditional chicken and rice dishes, these roll-ups combine the savory taste of bacon with the comfort of a hearty meal. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and grated cheddar cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the drippings behind.
4. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
5. In a separate bowl, mix cooked rice with a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. To assemble the roll-ups, lay a chicken breast flat and spoon some rice onto the center of each breast.
7. Place a few pieces of crispy bacon on top of the rice, then fold the chicken over to form a compact roll.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients, placing the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spanish Chicken and Rice with Saffron
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this classic chicken and rice dish infused with the subtle warmth of saffron. Aromatic spices, succulent chicken, and fluffy rice come together in a harmonious union.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add rice, broth, saffron mixture, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pineapple Fried Rice with Chicken
This mouth-watering dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory chicken and flavorful rice, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes or until the rice is lightly toasted.
5. Add the pineapple, chicken, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
6. If using egg, push the rice mixture aside and scramble the egg in the center of the pan. Mix with the rest of the ingredients.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Chicken and Rice Burritos
Get ready to wrap up a flavorful meal with this easy-to-make recipe! Smoky chipotle chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy avocado come together in a delicious burrito that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas (6-8)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced chipotle peppers and cumin; stir to combine.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by filling each with chicken, rice, black beans, and avocado. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines chicken, herbs, and rice to create a delicious and satisfying main course. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, combine chicken, rice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each tomato with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the filling.
6. Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean BBQ Chicken and Rice Bowl
Experience the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with this easy-to-make chicken and rice bowl dish, featuring tender chicken glazed in a sweet and spicy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 4 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, green onions)
– Scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, cook the mixed vegetables according to your preference (e.g., stir-fry with garlic).
5. Serve the grilled chicken on top of cooked white rice, garnished with scallions and mixed vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchini, this recipe combines the richness of pesto with the comfort of chicken and rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, chicken, pesto sauce, mozzarella cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Brush the tops of the zucchinis with olive oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Need quick and delicious dinner ideas for busy weeknights? Look no further! This article features 20 flavorful chicken and rice recipes that are sure to please. From classic comfort foods like garlic butter skillet and creamy casserole, to international-inspired dishes like Mexican stuffed peppers and Korean BBQ bowl, there’s something for everyone. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for a weeknight dinner rush, and can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Get cooking with these mouthwatering chicken and rice recipes!
