18 Flavorful Rice Cooker Chicken Recipes for Busy Weeknights
Are you tired of the same old chicken and rice dishes? Look no further! With a rice cooker, you can whip up a variety of delicious and easy-to-make chicken recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort food to international-inspired flavors, we’ve gathered 18 mouthwatering rice cooker chicken recipes that will become your new go-to’s. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and savory or spicy and bold, there’s a recipe here for everyone.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these flavorful recipes, sharing tips, tricks, and step-by-step instructions to ensure your meals turn out perfectly. So, grab your rice cooker and let’s get cooking!
Garlic Butter Rice Cooker Chicken
A classic comfort food dish with a twist – all cooked in a rice cooker! This recipe combines the simplicity of cooking chicken and rice together with the rich flavors of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Add the chicken, rice, garlic, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper to the rice cooker.
3. Cook on the “white rice” setting for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Milk Chicken and Rice
This creamy and aromatic dish is a flavorful twist on traditional chicken and rice. With the rich flavor of coconut milk, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in coconut milk and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the earthiness of herbs to create a flavorful and moist chicken dish, served with a side of aromatic rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups water.
6. Serve chicken with cooked rice and garnish with additional rosemary and thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Chicken and Rice
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe combines the rich flavors of honey and soy sauce with tender chicken and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the honey-soy glaze evenly over both breasts.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the rice and stir-fry in a separate pan until lightly toasted.
5. Bake chicken for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with toasted rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Rice Cooker Meal
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this easy and aromatic Spicy Cajun Chicken Rice Cooker Meal. This one-pot wonder combines juicy chicken, flavorful rice, and a kick of heat from cayenne pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, rice, water, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the cooker.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on high for 4-5 hours or low for 8-10 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add frozen peas and carrots. Stir well to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a dash of cayenne pepper (optional).
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours on high or 8-10 hours on low
Teriyaki Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bowl
A classic Japanese-inspired dish that combines juicy chicken with savory teriyaki sauce, crunchy vegetables, and fluffy rice. This flavorful bowl is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, chicken pieces, and salt. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook rice according to package instructions.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Assemble bowls by placing cooked rice at the bottom, followed by teriyaki chicken, and finishing with sautéed vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Mushroom Rice
Savor the flavors of this comforting one-pot dish, packed with juicy chicken, tender mushrooms, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the rice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
7. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken with Rice and Olives
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with the comfort of chicken, rice, and olives. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 3 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add sliced olives, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Pour the olive mixture over the chicken in the baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
8. Serve hot with cooked rice and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Rice Cooker Dinner
This recipe combines the flavors of slow-cooked chicken, tender rice, and tangy BBQ sauce for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Rice Cooker to “Brown” mode.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chicken to the pan and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the Rice Cooker, combine cooked rice, BBQ sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the cooked chicken to the Rice Cooker and stir gently to distribute evenly.
6. Close the lid and cook on “Cook” mode for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Thai Basil Chicken and Jasmine Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple recipe that combines succulent chicken, aromatic basil, and fluffy jasmine rice. This classic dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed Thai basil leaves (including sweet basil and holy basil)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, Thai basil leaves, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Serve the chicken mixture over cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the goodness of chicken, broccoli, and cheese with a hint of creamy rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add broccoli, rice, cheese, and milk to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice
This classic Greek dish combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of chicken and rice, all in one easy-to-make pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked rice with the chicken mixture.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the flavors are well combined.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mexican Chicken and Cilantro Lime Rice
This flavorful dish combines juicy chicken, creamy rice, and a burst of fresh cilantro, all wrapped up in a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Let cool.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, chopped cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and chicken broth. Pour over the rice mixture and stir until combined.
5. Shred the cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the rice mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chicken Rice Cooker Meal
A delicious and easy-to-make meal that combines the flavors of sweet and sour with the convenience of a rice cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, rice, mixed vegetables, sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, and olive oil to the rice cooker.
2. Cook on high for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
3. Stir-fry the mixture with a spatula before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Indian Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice
Experience the rich flavors of India with this classic recipe that combines tender chicken, creamy butter sauce, and fragrant basmati rice.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
For the butter sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato puree
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the basmati rice:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions.
2. Marinate chicken in a mixture of oil, cumin powder, coriander powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or cook chicken until cooked through.
4. In a pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
5. Add tomato puree, heavy cream, and cilantro. Simmer until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve chicken with basmati rice and butter sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice in the Rice Cooker
A delicious and easy-to-make recipe that combines the flavors of chicken, pineapple, and spices with the convenience of your rice cooker. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add rice and water to the rice cooker. Cook according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a separate pan, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
3. Add pineapple chunks, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil to the pan. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and add cooked chicken and pineapple mixture to the rice cooker. Stir-fry until combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on your rice cooker’s cooking time.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and comforting recipe. Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is a classic combination that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the garlic mixture.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is golden brown.
6. Serve hot with cooked white rice and garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Wild Rice Pilaf
A flavorful and nutritious pilaf dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken, herbs, and wild rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In a separate pot, bring the wild rice blend and chicken broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender and fluffy.
4. Add the cooked chicken, chopped onion, garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the cooked rice. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready for delicious and easy weeknight meals with these 18 flavorful rice cooker chicken recipes! From savory Garlic Butter Rice Cooker Chicken to sweet Honey Soy Glazed Chicken, there’s something for everyone. Try Coconut Milk Chicken and Rice for a creamy twist or Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice for a bright and citrusy flavor. Spice things up with Spicy Cajun Chicken Rice Cooker Meal or go international with Thai Basil Chicken and Jasmine Rice. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a quick and easy dinner, these recipes are sure to please.
