18 Mouthwatering Chicken and Rice Recipes You’ll Love
Chicken and Rice are one of our favorite combos. Be it for lunch or dinner, there is always something you can cook up if you've some chicken and rice lying around in the kitchen.
Despite being one of the most comforting combinations, chicken and rice can come off as kinda boring. Especially, if you pair dry chicken breast with plain white rice.
However, we believe that there are several flavor combinations that work with this classic combo. Here are 18 mouthwatering chicken and rice recipes that you can make multiple times a week and not get sick of.
1. One-pot Chicken and Rice
In a single pot, bone-in chicken pieces are first seared and fragrant rice then absorb the essence of the seasoned chicken, broth, and aromatic spices. This dish is a symphony of textures and tastes as the rice achieves a fluffy consistency while the chicken remains moist and tender.
Vegetables, often carrots and peas, contribute freshness and color to the dish. The one-pot method not only streamlines cooking but also ensures an effortless yet delectable meal, minimizing cleanup and providing a convenience and gourmet satisfaction.
2. Chicken and Rice Casserole
Yet another one-pan wonder is the chicken and rice casserole. However, this dish differentiates itself from the others due to the addition of a creamy sauce. The sauce is a blend of broth, cream of mushroom soup, and seasonings. Once the casserole is assembled, the sauce is poured over the mixture and baked to obtain a golden brown color.
Versatility is a hallmark of this dish, as additions like vegetables, herbs, or cheese can personalize the flavor profile. Chicken and Rice Casserole, often a one-dish wonder, not only gratifies the palate but also offers the convenience of a complete meal in a single pan.
3. Arroz con Pollo
This Latin American dish translates to "rice with chicken" and embodies the rich tapestry of flavors found in the region. This one-pot wonder combines succulent chicken pieces with aromatic rice, sautéed vegetables, and a symphony of spices like cumin, paprika, and saffron.
The result is a vibrant and comforting dish that reflects the diverse culinary traditions of Latin America, with variations in preparation from country to country.
4. Chicken Biryani
Chicken Biryani is an aromatic South Asian dish that brings flavorful Basmati rice, succulent chicken, and a blend of exquisite spices together. Each grain of rice absorbs the essence of saffron, ghee, and a melange of spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. The marinated chicken, once cooked, imparts its rich taste to the dish.
Layered meticulously, the biryani is then slow-cooked, allowing the ingredients to intermingle and create a culinary masterpiece. Garnished with fragrant herbs and crispy fried onions, Chicken Biryani is a celebration of textures and tastes.
5. Mushroom Chicken and Rice Pilaf
In this Mushroom Chicken and Rice Pilaf, tender chicken is combined with earthy mushrooms, and aromatic rice into a comforting dish. The chicken is seared along with the mushrooms where they bring their savory and earthy flavors. Together, they intermingle with the fragrant rice, absorbing the essence of a carefully crafted broth.
This pilaf achieves a harmonious balance, each component contributing to a satisfying meal ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
6. Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken Fried Rice is a traditional Asian-inspired dish that features tender pieces of chicken with savory fried rice. In this recipe, cooked rice is stir-fried with diced chicken, vibrant vegetables like peas, carrots, and green onions, and seasoned with soy sauce and aromatic spices.
The dish comes to life with the sizzle of the wok, creating a medley of flavors and textures. The chicken adds protein, while the vegetables provide color and freshness. Often garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil, it effortlessly blends simplicity with savory indulgence.
7. Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowl
In this dish, succulent chicken, marinated in a luscious teriyaki sauce crafted from soy, mirin, and sugar, is expertly grilled or pan-seared. Atop this lies a bed of steaming, fluffy rice. The overall dish is then seasoned with a teriyaki glaze that brings the flavors together.
Finally, garnish with some sesame seeds and green onions and you have a satisfying dish at your disposal.
8. Chicken Curry with Rice
Even though the concept of chicken curry and rice is similar to some other recipes on this list, this dish is distinguished by the aromatic flavors of the traditional curry. This globally beloved dish sees succulent chicken pieces simmered in a rich, fragrant curry sauce crafted with a blend of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and more.
The sauce, often enriched with coconut milk or tomatoes, bathes the chicken in a symphony of flavors. Served with a bed of steaming rice, each forkful promises a comforting mix of textures and spices.
9. Jollof Rice
This West African gem is a vibrant dance of spice and savor. Long-grain rice is infused with the flavor of tomato and the heady perfume of onions. Aromas of garlic, bay leaf, and thyme also work their magic to make this an experience you'll remember.
Each bite is a savory lover's dream with fiery scotch bonnet peppers and warm ginger, all enveloped in the sweet embrace of caramelized tomatoes. The fluffy rice serves the function of absorbing these flavors as a soft bed of flavor fiesta.
10. Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl
The Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl recreates the beloved flavors of the famous fast food chain, offering a delicious and customizable meal experience at home. Start with a base of cilantro-lime rice, topped with seasoned black beans, tender grilled chicken or beef, and a medley of colorful veggies like bell peppers and onions.
Add fresh ingredients like salsa, guacamole, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream to enhance the bowl's texture and taste. This homemade version captures the essence of Chipotle's signature burrito bowl while also providing a customizable and healthier alternative.
11. Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
This comforting soup features tender chicken chunks floating in a golden broth. To the mix, you can add carrots, celery stalks, and mushrooms. The combination of ingredients ensures that the dish is nutritious as well as delicious.
Finally, some chicken broth is added along with some white rice that soaks up the flavor of the dish. For flavor, warm spices like thyme and pepper are the popular choice. Chicken and wild rice soup - a nourishing hug in a bowl, perfect for chasing away chills and mending souls.
12. Greek Gyro Skillet
The Greek Gyro Skillet brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine to your table. This one-pan dish is prepared with tender strips of seasoned gyro meat—often lamb or chicken—with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. The aromatic blend of garlic, oregano, and other Mediterranean spices infuses every bite for a truly savory experience.
Finally, serve this with a side of tzatziki sauce and warm pita bread, and you have for yourself the iconic taste of a gyro without the need for a vertical rotisserie.
13. Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake
If you prefer your chicken creamy to spicy, this baked dish should be on your list. It is a comfort food classic that features wholesome ingredients like tender chicken, al dente pasta and a cheesy sauce.
This dish has crunchy broccoli, smooth cheese sauce, and flavorful chicken. Because of its familiarity, it is a cherished dish among many that bring joy and comfort to any dining table.
14. Chicken Burrito
A warm tortilla swaddles a fiesta of flavors in this iconic chicken burrito. Tender, seasoned chicken is mixed in with fluffy rice and creamy refried beans, all of which are enveloped within a tortilla. A tangy splash of salsa fresca dances on the palate, countered by the smooth richness of guacamole.
Cheddar cheese is also added for a comforting warmth. To finish, add a touch of sour cream and cilantro for a creamy, herbaceous finale.
15. Cajun Chicken and Rice
Cajun Chicken and Rice captures the essence of Louisiana's vibrant culinary traditions. Small chicken pieces, coated in a bold Cajun spice blend, are seared on a skillet. The dish gains depth from the "Holy Trinity" of Cajun cuisine—onions, bell peppers, and celery—sauteed until aromatic.
Simmered with rice and a medley of spices, including paprika, cayenne, and thyme, this one-pot wonder transforms into a comforting, spicy symphony. The result is a soulful, Cajun-infused creation, where each forkful offers a harmonious marriage of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice.
16. Mexican Chicken and Rice Skillet
Mexican cuisine is known for its bold flavors and vibrant color. In this Mexican creation, the chicken pieces are seared and nestled into a bed of aromatic rice infused with savory spices, tomatoes, and bell peppers. There is contrasting texture as well as flavors, all enriched with the smokiness of cumin and the warmth of chili powder.
Topped with fresh cilantro, avocado, and a squeeze of lime, this skillet dish offers a quick and flavorful journey to the heart of Mexican cuisine.
17. Lime Cilantro Chicken and Rice
Lime Cilantro Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal; it's a vibrant fiesta of fresh flavors that transports you to a sun-drenched beach. Chicken thighs are cooked with the zesty embrace of lime juice and the vibrant chopped cilantro. Commonly used spices in this dish are cumin and chili powder which provide smoky warmth to the dish.
Finally, the dish is complete with the addition of fluffy, aromatic rice which is also infused with lime zest and cilantro. Add a dollop of tangy sour cream to cool the spice and a vibrant salsa fresca for a refreshing burst.
18. Baja Chicken Bowls
To make the iconic Baja chicken bowls, you start with grilled or seasoned chicken. It is then accompanied by a colorful array of ingredients like cilantro-lime rice, black beans, fresh salsa, creamy avocado, and a drizzle of zesty lime crema.
This bowl captures the essence of Baja cuisine, combining the smokiness of grilled chicken with the freshness of tropical ingredients. The contrasting textures and bold flavors result in a customizable bowl that brings the spirit of coastal Baja straight to your dining table.
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