When it comes to weeknight meals, we’re always on the lookout for recipes that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. One of our go-to options is the classic chicken and rice skillet – a simple yet satisfying dish that can be customized to suit any taste. In this article, we’ll share 20 flavorful chicken and rice skillet recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From creamy sauces to spicy kick, these recipes offer something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and herbaceous or rich and cheesy, we’ve got you covered.
Stay tuned for our roundup of mouthwatering chicken and rice skillets below!
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Skillet
Quickly cook a flavorful one-pot meal with this Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Skillet recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter, garlic, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with butter mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with rice mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish is a comforting twist on classic chicken and rice, with the added richness of cream and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked rice, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish combines spicy Cajun flavors with juicy chicken, tender rice, and crispy vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to skillet; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add rice to skillet and stir to combine with vegetable mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Return chicken to skillet; season with salt and pepper, if desired. Simmer until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Skillet
A bright and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 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 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, thyme, and lemon juice to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the rice and chicken broth to the skillet. 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.
5. Stir in the cooked chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Skillet
Get ready for a delicious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch! This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Skillet recipe combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and cheese with the convenience of cooking everything in one skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the broccoli and rice to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the rice is lightly toasted.
5. In a separate bowl, mix the cooked chicken with the shredded cheese.
6. Pour the chicken mixture over the rice and broccoli in the skillet.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mexican Chicken and Rice Skillet with Black Beans
This flavorful one-pot dish combines the comfort of chicken and rice with the bold flavors of Mexico, all wrapped up in a delicious skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen black beans, thawed
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and shredded cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Skillet with Vegetables
A flavorful one-pan meal that combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce, the savory taste of chicken, and the nuttiness of rice, all in a delicious vegetable-packed skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp 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 the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, teriyaki sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the rice is well coated with the sauce.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice and vegetables.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet with Olives
A flavorful and healthy one-pan meal that combines the richness of chicken, savory rice, and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add the chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with the rice mixture.
6. Top with sliced olives and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Rice Skillet with Mushrooms
This hearty one-pot dish is a perfect weeknight solution, packed with flavorful chicken, savory mushrooms, and creamy rice. Ready in under an hour, it’s a comforting meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups 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 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the rice, chicken broth, and browned chicken back into the skillet.
7. 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.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Thai Coconut Chicken and Rice Skillet
This flavorful one-pot dish combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the savory goodness of chicken, rice, and a blend of Thai spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
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.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the coconut milk, rice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet with Corn
A hearty one-pan meal perfect for a weeknight dinner, this BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet with Corn is a delicious twist on classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice, corn kernels, and BBQ sauce to the skillet.
5. Stir well to combine, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chicken and Rice Skillet
This hearty skillet meal combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the flavors of chicken, rice, and spices for a quick and satisfying dinner. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend brunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 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.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the Greek yogurt and stir until combined.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the savory taste of chicken, rice, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 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 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. Stir in the cooked rice, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the rice mixture.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Chicken and Rice Skillet
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this creamy, spicy, and satisfying one-pot wonder. This Jalapeño Popper Chicken and Rice Skillet combines juicy chicken, flavorful rice, and a kick of jalapeño heat in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced jalapeños
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat cooking spray or oil over medium-high.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
4. In the same skillet, add rice, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender.
5. Stir in cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños until melted and creamy.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Rice Skillet with Spinach
This flavorful skillet dish combines the creaminess of pesto sauce with juicy chicken, tender spinach, and savory rice, all cooked to perfection in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 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, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the pesto sauce and cooked rice; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the chicken back into the skillet, along with the fresh spinach leaves. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice Skillet
In this one-pot wonder, juicy chicken, flavorful rice, and a tangy honey mustard sauce come together to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably leftover)
– 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 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. In the same skillet, add the cooked rice and stir to combine with any remaining juices.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and Dijon mustard. Pour the mixture over the rice in the skillet.
5. Add the browned chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with the honey mustard sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
7. Serve hot, straight from the skillet.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Ranch Chicken and Rice Skillet
A hearty one-pot meal that combines crispy bacon, tender chicken, and creamy ranch flavor with a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup ranch seasoning
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the bacon until crispy, then remove from pan.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside with bacon.
3. In the same skillet, add cooked rice and ranch seasoning. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to coat the rice.
5. Return the chicken and bacon to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curry Chicken and Rice Skillet with Peas
A flavorful and satisfying one-pot meal that combines the comfort of chicken, rice, and peas with the warmth of curry spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup mixed peas (frozen or fresh)
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 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. In the same skillet, add the curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Add the peas and chicken back into the skillet. Stir to combine and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Skillet
This recipe combines the bold flavors of salsa verde with tender chicken, creamy rice, and crisp veggies for a deliciously easy dinner. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Salsa Verde (store-bought or homemade)
– 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 garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the red bell pepper and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, peas and carrots, and Salsa Verde. Cook for 2-3 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 or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken and Rice Skillet
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful skillet dish that combines the richness of chicken, smokiness of paprika, and creaminess of rice. This one-pan wonder is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (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. Add the smoked paprika and garlic powder to the skillet; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the rice and water to the skillet; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet; stir to combine with the rice and sauce.
6. Garnish with cilantro, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious chicken and rice skillet recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From creamy parmesan to spicy Cajun, these one-pot meals are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Try garlic butter chicken and rice, teriyaki chicken with veggies, or Mediterranean chicken with olives. For a twist, try cheesy broccoli, Thai coconut, or jalapeño popper chicken and rice. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or adventurous, there’s a recipe on this list to suit your taste. Get ready to simplify dinner time with these mouth-watering chicken and rice skillet recipes!