Chicken Recipes with Rice – Quick, Easy, and Delicious Meals

Chicken and rice is a classic combination that’s both filling and versatile. Whether you’re looking for a simple dinner, a comforting meal, or something that’s easy to prepare, chicken recipes with rice are the perfect solution. These dishes are hearty, nutritious, and can be customized to your tastes with a variety of flavors, seasonings, and ingredients.

In this article, we’ll share some of the best chicken and rice recipes that will make your mealtime enjoyable and stress-free!

1. Chicken and Rice Casserole

A chicken and rice casserole is a one-pan wonder that’s both comforting and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large casserole dish, combine the chicken cubes, rice, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix well, then cover the dish with aluminum foil.
  4. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
  5. Remove the foil, sprinkle with additional cheese, and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

👉 Tip: For added flavor, try adding vegetables like peas or broccoli to the casserole!

2. Chicken Fried Rice

This chicken fried rice recipe is quick and easy, perfect for using leftover chicken and rice. You’ll have a flavorful meal in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 3 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Push the garlic to one side of the pan and scramble the beaten eggs on the other side until fully cooked.
  4. Add the shredded chicken, peas, carrots, and cooked rice to the pan. Stir everything together.
  5. Pour the soy sauce over the rice and stir well to combine.
  6. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until everything is heated through. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve.

👉 Tip: Add a dash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick!

3. One-Pot Chicken and Rice

This one-pot chicken and rice recipe is the epitome of simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal in no time.

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
  • 2 cups long-grain rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
  2. Sear the chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add the rice and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
  5. Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
  6. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 25-30 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  7. Serve hot with a side of vegetables.

👉 Tip: For extra flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and rice before serving.

4. Chicken and Rice Soup

This chicken and rice soup is a warm, hearty meal, perfect for a cold day or when you need something comforting.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup rice (uncooked)
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Add the chicken broth, rice, and thyme. Bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the rice is cooked.
  4. Add the shredded chicken and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

👉 Tip: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale at the end for a nutritious boost!

5. Chicken and Rice Stir Fry

A chicken and rice stir fry is a quick and healthy meal that’s packed with veggies and flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
  • 3 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced
  • 1/2 cup broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup snow peas
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Instructions:

  1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, then add the bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  3. Add the cooked chicken and rice to the pan. Stir in the soy sauce and hoisin sauce.
  4. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until everything is heated through and well combined.
  5. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions.

👉 Tip: For added protein, top with a fried egg!

6. Chicken and Rice Pilaf

This chicken and rice pilaf is a flavorful dish with aromatic spices and tender chicken, perfect for serving at dinner parties or family meals.

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts, diced
  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, sauté the onion in olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the spices, then add the rice and chicken broth.
  4. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

👉 Tip: Add raisins or toasted almonds for a sweet and crunchy touch!

These chicken recipes with rice are not only simple to prepare but also incredibly flavorful and versatile. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting casserole, a stir fry, or a soothing soup, there’s a chicken and rice recipe for every occasion.