When it comes to quick, comforting, and wholesome meals, chicken and rice recipes always top the list. The combination is budget-friendly, family-approved, and versatile enough to suit different tastes and cuisines. Whether you’re craving a creamy casserole, a flavorful stir-fry, or a hearty one-pot dish, chicken and rice deliver every time.
In this article, we’ll share 5 easy chicken and rice recipes that are simple to make, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. Each recipe uses basic pantry staples and can be adapted to your personal preferences.
Why Chicken and Rice Recipes Are So Popular
Before diving into the recipes, let’s look at why chicken and rice make such a winning duo:
- Affordable – Both chicken and rice are inexpensive and widely available.
- Nutritious – Chicken provides lean protein, while rice adds energy-boosting carbohydrates.
- Customizable – From Mexican-inspired flavors to Asian-style stir-fries, you can create endless variations.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Many chicken and rice dishes reheat well, making them great for leftovers or weekly meal prep.
Now, let’s get into the star of the article—5 easy chicken and rice recipes you’ll want to try this week.
1. One-Pot Chicken and Rice
This is the ultimate weeknight chicken and rice recipe—everything cooks in one pot, saving you time on cleanup. The rice absorbs all the savory chicken flavors, making it a comforting and filling dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs (skin on or off)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika, then sear on both sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in rice and toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, add peas and carrots, then place chicken thighs on top.
- Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
Tip: Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a fresh flavor boost.
2. Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
If you love comfort food, this chicken and rice casserole will become a family favorite. It’s rich, creamy, and bakes to golden perfection.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen broccoli florets
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, rice, mushroom soup, sour cream, broccoli, and seasonings.
- Spread mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and cheese is golden brown.
Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
3. Chicken Fried Rice (Better Than Takeout)
This easy chicken fried rice recipe is perfect when you’re craving takeout but want a healthier homemade version. It’s quick, colorful, and customizable.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, diced
- 3 cups cooked rice (cold, day-old rice works best)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken until browned and fully cooked, then set aside.
- In the same pan, scramble eggs and push to the side.
- Add rice, vegetables, and soy sauce. Stir-fry until heated through.
- Return chicken to the pan, toss everything together, and season to taste.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Tip: For a spicier kick, add sriracha or chili paste.
4. Baked Chicken and Rice with Vegetables
This baked version of chicken and rice is simple, healthy, and packed with vegetables. Everything bakes together in the oven for a fuss-free dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ cups uncooked brown rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread rice evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour in chicken broth and scatter vegetables on top.
- Season chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place them over the rice.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Remove foil, bake for another 10 minutes to brown the chicken.
Tip: Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before serving for extra flavor.
5. Spicy Mexican Chicken and Rice Skillet
If you like bold, zesty flavors, this Mexican-style chicken and rice skillet is perfect. It’s loaded with spices, beans, and corn for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden.
- Add onion, rice, and spices, stirring until fragrant.
- Stir in beans, corn, tomatoes, and chicken broth.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, until rice is cooked.
- Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Tip: Top with shredded cheese or avocado slices for a creamy finish.
Final Thoughts
These 5 easy chicken and rice recipes show just how versatile and delicious this classic pairing can be. From creamy casseroles to quick stir-fries and one-pot meals, you can whip up a satisfying dinner any night of the week without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for yourself, chicken and rice never disappoint. Try one (or all) of these recipes, and you’ll have a go-to collection of weeknight favorites in no time.