45 Easy Chicken and Rice Recipes Your Family Will LOVE

Are you always looking for easy and healthy meal ideas for those busy nights?

Let’s be real—life can get crazy, and sometimes we need dinners that are quick and tasty to keep everyone happy and full.

That’s why I’m sharing my go-to chicken and rice recipes that are perfect for the family!

They’re not only super simple to make but they’re also packed with good stuff.

Chicken and rice is such a classic combo, and it’s great because you can dress it up or keep it basic.

Plus, it’s a lighter option that won’t leave you feeling sluggish.

So, whether you’re rushing home from work or just don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen, these recipes are here to save the day!

Easy Chicken and Rice Recipes

If you’re looking for a simple, delicious meal that doesn’t require a ton of cleanup, this easy chicken and rice recipe is just what you need.

It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty and satisfying without the fuss.

The best part? It’s packed with flavor and super easy to make, so you can have a wholesome dinner on the table in no time.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup frozen peas
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Rice and Broth: Pour in the rice and stir it around to coat it in the oil and onion mixture. Then, add the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, and cover. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
Add Peas: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas and stir gently.
Serve: Once done, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your easy chicken and rice!

This dish is a lifesaver on those hectic nights when you need a quick and healthy meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Looking for more easy chicken and rice recipes? Check these out:

2. Chicken Scampi

A delicious twist on classic shrimp scampi, featuring tender chicken sautéed in a garlicky butter sauce. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.

3. One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice

A creamy, cheesy dish that combines chicken and rice in one skillet. Easy to make and rich in flavor, it’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night.

4. Chicken and Mushroom Rice

This hearty dish features juicy chicken and earthy mushrooms cooked with rice for a savory, satisfying meal. A perfect combination for mushroom lovers.

5. Chicken and Rice and Veggies

A wholesome meal combining chicken, rice, and a medley of vegetables. It’s a colorful and nutritious option that’s easy to prepare.

6. Pineapple Chicken and Rice

A tropical twist on chicken and rice, with juicy pineapple chunks adding a sweet and tangy flavor. A fun and easy recipe for a refreshing dinner.

7. Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice

A quick and easy recipe using the Instant Pot to cook tender chicken thighs and fluffy rice. Perfect for a hassle-free dinner with minimal cleanup.

8. One Pan Chicken and Garlic Rice

A simple and flavorful one-pan dish featuring chicken and garlic-infused rice. Ideal for garlic lovers looking for a quick and tasty meal.

9. One Pan Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli and Rice

A comforting one-pan meal with cheesy chicken, broccoli, and rice. A family-friendly dish that’s easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser.

10. Cajun Chicken and Rice

A spicy and flavorful dish with Cajun-seasoned chicken and rice. Perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals.

Baked Chicken and Rice Recipes

There’s something comforting about a warm, hearty chicken and rice bake fresh out of the oven. It’s the perfect meal for when you want something filling and delicious but don’t want to spend all night in the kitchen.

This dish is a classic for a reason—it’s super easy to prepare, and the oven does all the work while you relax.

With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a wholesome dinner that the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup water
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, combine the sautéed vegetables, rice, chicken broth, water, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until well mixed. Place the chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Serve: Once done, let the dish rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

This chicken and rice bake is a deliciously simple meal that’s sure to become a staple in your home. The creamy, savory flavors and tender chicken make it a hit with the whole family.

Here are some more recipes I know you’ll love:

12. Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

A classic casserole dish combining chicken, rice, and a creamy sauce. A nostalgic recipe that’s simple and satisfying.

13. Parmesan Lemon Chicken and Rice Bake

A refreshing baked dish featuring chicken, rice, and a zesty lemon and Parmesan flavor. A light and delicious option for any meal.

14. Baked Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole

A cheesy and comforting casserole with chicken, broccoli, and rice. A delicious way to get your greens and protein in one dish.

15. Chicken Cordon Bleu Rice Bake

A twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, with ham and cheese layered with chicken and rice. A delightful and easy bake perfect for a special dinner.

16. Chicken Divan

A creamy casserole with chicken, broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce. A delicious comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners.

17. Mexican Chicken and Rice Bake

A vibrant and flavorful dish with Mexican-seasoned chicken, rice, and beans. A quick and easy recipe that’s great for a fiesta night.

18. Creamy Chicken and Rice Bake With Bacon

A rich and creamy bake featuring chicken, rice, and crispy bacon. An indulgent and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

More Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Meals

Here’s more deliciousness for you to try! These chicken and rice recipes are perfect for adding a little variety to your weeknight dinners. From zesty to creamy, there’s something here for every craving!

19. Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

A zesty dish with chicken seasoned with fresh lemon juice and herbs, baked with rice for a refreshing and flavorful meal. Simply marinate the chicken, then bake with rice and broth in the oven.

20. Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice

Chicken breasts cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, served over fluffy rice. Sauté the chicken in garlic butter, then add rice and broth to simmer until cooked.

21. Honey Garlic Chicken and Rice

A sweet and savory dish with tender chicken coated in a honey garlic glaze, served with rice. Cook the chicken with a mixture of honey, garlic, and soy sauce, then serve over steamed rice.

22. Teriyaki Chicken and Rice

A classic Asian-inspired dish with juicy chicken in a savory teriyaki sauce, served with rice. Marinate the chicken in teriyaki sauce, then stir-fry and serve with rice.

23. BBQ Chicken and Rice

Chicken breasts smothered in BBQ sauce, paired with rice for a hearty meal. Bake the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce, then serve alongside cooked rice.

24. Spanish Chicken and Rice

A flavorful dish with chicken, tomatoes, peppers, and Spanish spices, all cooked with rice. Sauté the chicken with spices and vegetables, then add rice and simmer until tender.

25. Creamy Pesto Chicken and Rice

Chicken and rice cooked in a creamy pesto sauce for a rich and flavorful dish. Cook the chicken in a creamy pesto sauce, then mix with rice and serve.

26. Chicken Fajita Rice

A Tex-Mex inspired dish with seasoned chicken, bell peppers, onions, and rice. Sauté the chicken with fajita spices, add vegetables and rice, then simmer until cooked.

27. Greek Chicken and Rice

Chicken marinated in Greek herbs and lemon, served with rice and vegetables. Grill or bake the chicken, then serve with rice and a side of Greek salad.

28. Coconut Curry Chicken and Rice

A tropical dish with chicken simmered in a coconut curry sauce, served with rice. Cook the chicken in a coconut milk-based curry sauce, then serve over steamed rice.

29. Puerto Rican Chicken

Marinate your chicken in olive oil and adobo spices for at least 30 minutes, then brown it in a skillet and set aside. Sauté garlic, jalapeño, green pepper, onion, and cilantro, stir in sazon spices, tomato sauce, and water, then fold in rice, peas, and olives, adding the chicken on top before simmering until the rice is fluffy and garnishing with cilantro and lime juice.

30. Jollof Rice With Chicken

This Jollof Rice is bursting with flavor from a perfect blend of spices, ensuring no bland bites and featuring simple ingredients so anyone can whip it up with ease. For a balanced meal, add veggies like carrots and green beans, or keep it simple with a fresh salad on the side—this beloved West African dish is all about that irresistible tomato and aromatic goodness!