Are you tired of the same old chicken and rice recipes? Look no further! We’ve got 18 flavorful skillet recipes to spice up your weeknights. From spicy Cajun to creamy Parmesan, we’re sharing our favorite ways to combine chicken, rice, and a dash of flavor.
From classic comfort food to international twists, these one-pot wonders are perfect for busy households or quick weeknight meals. With ingredients like black beans, broccoli, and coconut milk, you’ll be exploring new flavors and textures in no time. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover your new favorite chicken and rice recipe!
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish combines the bold flavors of Cajun cooking with the comfort of chicken and rice, all in a spicy kick. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked rice, chicken broth, and water to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Skillet
A hearty one-pot dish that combines the flavors of creamy parmesan sauce, savory chicken, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with chicken.
4. Pour in heavy cream, and sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice Skillet
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic one-pot meal, this Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice Skillet is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or scallions for garnish
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 garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and cooked rice. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the rice is coated with the citrusy mixture.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Skillet
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan-inspired Teriyaki chicken, paired with fluffy rice and crispy vegetables in a one-skillet wonder.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup Teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in Teriyaki sauce; add cooked chicken back to skillet.
5. Top with cooked rice; stir-fry everything together until combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Chicken and Rice Skillet with Black Beans
A flavorful and filling one-pot meal that combines juicy chicken, savory black beans, and aromatic spices with the comfort of creamy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 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 tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add rice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
7. Stir in black beans and cook an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Skillet
This hearty one-pot meal combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and cheese with the convenience of a simple skillet dinner. Perfect for a weeknight supper or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken, rice, and broccoli in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
2. Add the water, cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Stir in the milk and shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional broccoli florets if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice Skillet
A sweet and savory one-pan wonder, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 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 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the honey-mustard mixture over the cooked rice in the skillet.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice and sauce.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Curry Chicken and Rice Skillet with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and comforting one-pot meal that combines the warmth of curry spices with the richness of coconut milk, served over fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In the same skillet, add the rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
4. Stir in the coconut milk, onion, and garlic. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. 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 Chicken and Rice Skillet with Mushrooms
A hearty and comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and creamy rice in a single skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and bring to a boil.
7. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer to the oven. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jalapeño Lime Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot meal that combines the heat of jalapeños with the brightness of lime, all wrapped up in a delicious chicken and rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 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 chopped jalapeño and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the lime juice and stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken and Rice Skillet
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the comfort of a hearty skillet meal. With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish 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
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cooking spray or oil.
2. Cook chicken until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the peanut sauce.
5. Return chicken to the skillet, along with peanuts, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken and Rice Skillet
Smoky Paprika Chicken and Rice Skillet: A flavorful and satisfying one-pan meal that combines the smokiness of paprika with the comfort of chicken and rice.
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked rice and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is heated through.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is coated in the smoky paprika mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet with Olives
A flavorful one-pan meal that combines the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with tender chicken, creamy rice, and salty olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed greens (e.g., parsley, oregano, thyme)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp paprika
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and mixed greens; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Top with sliced olives and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Skillet
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe combines juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich garlic butter sauce all in one skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic butter mixture.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet with Corn
A hearty one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch, this BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet with Corn is a flavorful 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 barbecue sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
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 skillet and set aside.
3. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with any remaining oil.
4. Add the corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in barbecue sauce. Stir to coat.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Roasted Chicken and Rice Skillet
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and easy-to-make skillet dish, featuring tender chicken, savory rice, and a hint of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the rice, thyme, rosemary, and chicken broth to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sriracha Chicken and Rice Skillet
This flavorful one-pot dish combines juicy chicken, savory rice, and a spicy kick from Sriracha sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves 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 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in Sriracha sauce; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked rice and chicken back into the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Vegetable-Packed Chicken and Rice Skillet
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, rice, and mixed vegetables in a single skillet, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. With minimal prep time and cooking time, this hearty dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 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 and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and rice.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 18 flavorful chicken and rice skillet recipes! From spicy Cajun to creamy Parmesan, and from Mediterranean to Thai peanut, there’s a recipe for every taste bud. With ingredients like black beans, broccoli, coconut milk, and more, these one-pot wonders are perfect for busy nights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
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