Are you tired of the same old boring chicken and rice recipes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering skillet recipes that are sure to spice up your meal routine. From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy Cajun, each recipe is packed with flavor and can be prepared in just one pot.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a home cook seeking inspiration for a special occasion, these wholesome recipes are perfect for anyone who loves chicken and rice. With a range of international flavors and ingredients, from Mediterranean herbs to Mexican spices, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each recipe, sharing step-by-step instructions and beautiful photos to help you bring these dishes to life.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Skillet
A one-pot wonder that combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a rich creamy sauce, all infused with the aromatic goodness of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 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 skillet.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add rice to the skillet, cooking for 1-2 minutes, until lightly toasted.
5. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat with sauce.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
8. Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice Skillet
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this bold and flavorful skillet recipe, featuring spicy Cajun seasoning, juicy chicken, and savory rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron 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 onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve the spicy Cajun chicken and rice in the same skillet, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Skillet
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic comfort food dish, this Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Skillet is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With the zesty flavor of lemon, the earthiness of herbs, and the simplicity of one-pot cooking, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley 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 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the cooked rice, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Mexican-Style Chicken and Rice Skillet with Salsa
This flavorful skillet dish combines juicy chicken, savory rice, and a spicy kick from homemade salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Salsa (homemade or store-bought), for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Serve hot with homemade or store-bought salsa on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken and Rice Skillet
This one-pot wonder combines the flavors of coconut, curry, and chicken with a creamy rice base, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat.
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
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk, rice, and frozen vegetables; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes.
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Skillet
A delicious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This skillet combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and rice with a creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley 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 the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, milk, and shredded cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
5. Add the chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet
Simplify dinner with this flavorful one-pot dish, combining chicken, rice, and Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Return chicken to skillet; stir to combine.
7. Cover skillet with a lid or foil; bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken and Rice Skillet
This sweet and savory skillet dish combines juicy chicken with fluffy rice and a sticky teriyaki glaze, all cooked to perfection in one pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame 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. In the same skillet, add the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the glaze.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Chicken and Rice Skillet
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers with the comforting warmth of chicken and rice, all in one easy skillet meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 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 skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped chipotle pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked rice and chicken back into the skillet; stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice Skillet
Satisfy your cravings with this sweet and savory one-pot wonder, featuring juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a tangy honey mustard glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Leave any juices behind.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with any remaining juices.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and mustard. Pour the mixture over the rice, stirring until well coated.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the honey-mustard glaze on top.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Inspired Chicken and Rice Skillet with Feta
This hearty skillet dish combines the flavors of Greece with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a tangy feta crumble. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, bell peppers, oregano, and paprika. Cook until chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked rice, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spoon.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese and cook until melted and slightly browned, about 1 minute more.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-18 minutes
Sundried Tomato and Spinach Chicken and Rice Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish combines the flavors of sundried tomatoes, spinach, and chicken with a creamy sauce served over fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
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.
3. Add the garlic, sundried tomatoes, and spinach to the skillet. Cook until the spinach has wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the tomato mixture.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pineapple Jerk Chicken and Rice Skillet
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful skillet recipe that combines juicy chicken, savory rice, and a hint of tropical pineapple jerk seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp 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 on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the pineapple juice and jerk seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the pineapple-jerk mixture.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the rice mixture over the top.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon Mushroom Chicken and Rice Skillet
A hearty one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, this Bacon Mushroom Chicken and Rice Skillet is a flavorful and filling meal that combines the savory goodness of bacon, mushrooms, chicken, and rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup of mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups of cooked white rice
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 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 diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside with the bacon.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken and bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken and Rice Skillet
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this one-pot wonder! This recipe combines chicken, rice, and a creamy peanut sauce for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, curry paste, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the peanut sauce.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and stir until coated with the sauce.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful and comforting one-pot dish that combines juicy chicken, savory garlic butter, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 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 garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the oven. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Southwest Black Bean Chicken and Rice Skillet
A flavorful and filling one-pot meal that combines the spices of the Southwest with the comfort of chicken, black beans, and rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 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 skillet and set aside.
3. Add the bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the cooked rice, black beans, and chicken back into the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Rice Skillet with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe is a flavorful one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. With the addition of cherry tomatoes, it’s a colorful and nutritious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil 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 and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the cooked rice, pesto sauce, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with these 18 flavorful chicken and rice skillet recipes! From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy Cajun and Mexican-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone. Try adding some Mediterranean flair with feta cheese or go bold with Thai peanut and sundried tomato flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something cheesy, smoky, or simply comforting, these wholesome one-pot meals are sure to please.
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