When it comes to quick and easy meals, few options can rival a flavorful chicken and rice skillet. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights. In this collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes, we’re sharing our favorite twists on the classic chicken and rice combo. From spicy Cajun to creamy mushroom, there’s something here for every taste bud.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of chicken and rice skillets, where rich flavors meet ease of preparation. Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent looking for a weeknight meal solution, these recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish is a comforting twist on classic chicken and rice. Satisfy your cravings with the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining butter, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until lightly toasted.
5. Add chicken back into the skillet, then pour in 2 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful one-pot wonder that combines the boldness of Cajun spices with the comfort of chicken and rice. This Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add rice to the skillet; cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and browned chicken back to the skillet. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines the comfort of chicken, rice, broccoli, and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 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. Add the rice, water or broth, broccoli, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful and easy one-pot dish that combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of herbs, all cooked to perfection in a skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 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 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic, parsley, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the herb mixture.
5. Pour in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful and quick one-pot meal that combines juicy chicken, savory teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice.
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 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
Instructions:
1. Heat the 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 and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the teriyaki sauce, mixed vegetables, and cooked rice to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce mixture.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice Skillet
A comforting one-pot dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and creamy rice, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 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 skillet.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in rice, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked chicken back to the skillet, stirring to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and creamy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Chicken and Rice Skillet
This flavorful one-pot dish combines juicy chicken, savory rice, and spicy peppers, all cooked together in a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet; cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and browned chicken back to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Pineapple Coconut Chicken and Rice Skillet
Pineapple Coconut Chicken and Rice Skillet: A sweet and savory one-pot meal that combines the flavors of pineapple, coconut, and chicken with the comfort of warm rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tbsp coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut 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 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 cumin, pineapple chunks, and shredded coconut. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the rice mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Feta Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines juicy chicken, creamy feta cheese, and nutritious spinach with a side of fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves 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.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, spinach, feta cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir until everything is well combined.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the spinach has wilted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Basil Chicken and Rice Skillet
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple and delicious one-pot recipe. With juicy chicken, aromatic basil, and fluffy rice, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, and Thai basil to the pan; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, stirring to combine with the aromatics.
5. Add the chicken back to the pan, along with soy sauce and fish sauce (if using). Stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This hearty skillet combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and sweet BBQ sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves 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.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the rice and water to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Stir in the BBQ sauce; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines the warmth of Mediterranean spices with the comfort of chicken, rice, and vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Crumbly feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Add the bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked rice, chicken broth, and browned chicken back into the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the flavors have melded together.
7. Top with crumbly feta cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Curry Coconut Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines the warmth of curry with the richness of coconut milk, served over a bed of fluffy rice. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in coconut milk and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot meal that combines juicy chicken, creamy pesto, and fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized 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
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the pesto sauce and cooked rice. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Jalapeño Lime Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot wonder that combines the brightness of lime, the heat of jalapeños, and the comfort of chicken and rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 large jalapeños, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lime, juiced and zested
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced jalapeños and minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cooked rice, lime juice, and zest. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Sweet Chili Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot wonder that combines tender chicken, sweet chili flakes, and fluffy rice, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably leftover)
– 1/4 cup sweet chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves 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 softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in sweet chili flakes and cooked rice. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot wonder that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the savory taste of chicken, all wrapped up in a delicious rice dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tsp 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, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the rice, water, cherry tomatoes, and cooked chicken back into the skillet.
5. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot meal that combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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.
3. In the same skillet, add the honey and mustard. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the cooked rice and chicken back into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken and Rice Skillet
A spicy and savory one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering. This recipe combines the flavors of buffalo chicken, creamy rice, and crunchy vegetables in a single skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the cooked rice, peas and carrots, and buffalo wing sauce to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot wonder that combines juicy chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tbsp 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. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknight meals with these 20 flavorful chicken and rice skillet recipes! From classic garlic butter to international-inspired teriyaki, there’s something for everyone. Try cheesy broccoli, spicy Cajun, or Mediterranean-style with feta and spinach. These one-pot wonders are perfect for busy nights when you need a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family.