Are you tired of the same old chicken and rice recipes? Look no further! With these 20 flavorful skillet recipes, you’ll never have to settle for boring again. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and garlicky or spicy and Cajun, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to please.
From classic comfort foods like Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Skillet to international-inspired dishes like Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Skillet and Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet, these recipes offer endless possibilities for busy weeknights. And the best part? They’re all quick, easy, and delicious – perfect for a stress-free dinner that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and discover your new favorite chicken and rice recipe!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Skillet
In this one-pot wonder, juicy chicken, flavorful garlic, and creamy parmesan sauce come together with tender rice for a satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, and browned chicken back into the skillet. Toss until well combined.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish combines flavorful chicken, spicy Cajun seasoning, and creamy rice for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Skillet
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken and rice, this skillet recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat with oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
4. Add the water, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Skillet
This one-pot wonder combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and rice with a rich and creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli, rice, and butter to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and shredded cheese until smooth.
4. Pour the cheese mixture over the chicken and rice mixture in the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Skillet
This one-pan wonder combines flavorful teriyaki chicken with fluffy rice and a hint of sweetness, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in teriyaki sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the teriyaki mixture.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce and rice.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-18 minutes
Mexican Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines juicy chicken, tender rice, and vibrant vegetables in a spicy Mexican-inspired sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and peas and carrots to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet; stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty and aromatic skillet dish. Chicken, rice, and spices come together to create a satisfying meal perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably leftover)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the rice mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curry Coconut Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful and aromatic one-pot meal that combines the richness of coconut milk with the warmth of curry spices, served over fluffy rice. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
6. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet
Savor the flavors of a classic comfort food with this easy one-pot recipe that combines juicy chicken, tender rice, and tangy BBQ sauce. This 30-minute meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the rice to the pan and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the water, chicken back into the skillet, and BBQ sauce. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Spinach and Mushroom Chicken and Rice Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish combines the flavors of chicken, spinach, mushrooms, and rice in a quick and easy meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic to the skillet and cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, spinach, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the spinach has wilted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines succulent chicken, aromatic rice, and a rich Thai-inspired peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add cooked rice, peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and water to the skillet.
4. Stir-fry everything together for 2-3 minutes, until well combined.
5. Stir in chopped peanuts and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot meal perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. This skillet combines juicy chicken, aromatic sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken and set aside. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooked rice, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful and easy-to-make skillet dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (cooked according to package instructions)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the honey and Dijon mustard. Stir until combined and heated through, about 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the honey-mustard mixture.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the rice mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken and Rice Skillet
Satisfy your cravings with this spicy and savory one-pot meal that combines the flavors of buffalo chicken, creamy rice, and crunchy vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: blue cheese crumbles for topping
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in buffalo wing sauce and cooked rice; bring to a simmer.
5. Add the peas and carrots, cooked chicken, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, topped with blue cheese crumbles if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Ranch Chicken and Rice Skillet
A creamy and savory one-pot dish that combines the flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch seasoning with a comforting serving of rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup ranch seasoning
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, then remove from pan.
2. Add the chicken to the same skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the cooked rice, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 10 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Stir in the butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Rice Skillet
Pesto Chicken and Rice Skillet: A flavorful and satisfying one-pot dish that combines juicy chicken, creamy pesto, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the pesto sauce and cooked rice. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the flavors are combined.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the chicken is fully coated in the pesto sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lime Cilantro Chicken and Rice Skillet
Brighten up your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful and aromatic skillet dish, featuring juicy chicken, savory rice, and a zesty kick from lime and cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper for added color
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic, cilantro, and lime juice to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in cooked rice and salt to taste.
5. Return chicken to the skillet, tossing to combine with the rice mixture.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot meal that combines juicy chicken, savory garlic butter, and creamy rice, all cooked to perfection in a large skillet. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, garlic, and rice. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes or until rice is lightly toasted.
4. Add chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
5. Return chicken to skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Chili Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. This sweet chili chicken and rice skillet is easy to make and packed with tender chicken, spicy sweetness, and creamy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and sweet chili sauce. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Paprika Chicken and Rice Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish is a flavorful twist on traditional chicken and rice, with the added depth of smoky paprika. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and smoked paprika; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice and chicken; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknight meals with these 20 delicious chicken and rice skillet recipes! From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy Cajun, and from Mediterranean to teriyaki, there’s a flavorful option for every taste. These one-pot wonders are quick, easy, and packed with protein, making them perfect for busy families or singles on-the-go. With ingredients ranging from familiar pantry staples to international spices, you’ll find inspiration for a new favorite dish in this collection of mouth-watering recipes.
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