Delicious Chicken and Rice Recipes for Cozy Dinners

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of chicken and rice wafting through your kitchen, is there? The tender chicken, mingling with fluffy rice, creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. It’s warm, inviting, and downright comforting, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

I remember the first time I made chicken and rice. My kitchen turned into a battleground—spices were flying everywhere, and I was convinced I could summon my inner chef. Spoiler alert: I did! This dish has become a staple in my home, evoking memories of laughter and full bellies around the dinner table.

I once made this dish for a gathering, only to witness my friends practically fighting over the last scoop. That’s the power of good food—it brings people together!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on how many you’re feeding.

• Long Grain Rice: Opt for long grain rice for fluffy texture; it cooks perfectly with the chicken juices.

• Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium broth helps control the saltiness while enhancing flavor beautifully.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best aromatic punch in your dish.

• Onion: A medium onion adds depth and sweetness; sauté until translucent for optimal flavor release.

• Your Favorite Spices: Think paprika or cumin to add a unique twist; feel free to mix it up!

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness while keeping that umami kick.

• Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil adds richness; don’t skimp on quality here.

• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper elevates flavors; always opt for fresh over pre-ground if possible.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep That Chicken! Rinse your boneless chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper so every bite bursts with flavor.

Sauté Your Aromatics! In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and toss in chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent—about 3-4 minutes will do the trick.

Add the Rice! Pour in your long grain rice along with any spices you desire. Stir everything together so that each grain gets coated in those delicious juices from the onions and garlic.

Pour in Broth! Carefully add chicken broth into your skillet while scraping up any tasty bits stuck at the bottom. Bring this mixture up to a gentle simmer—it’s time for that magical transformation!

Add Chicken & Simmer! Nestle your seasoned chicken breasts right into the simmering rice mixture. Cover tightly with a lid—let it cook undisturbed for about 20-25 minutes until everything is tender.

The Grand Finale! Once cooked, remove from heat but let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. Fluff up that rice with a fork before serving; garnish with fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy!

And there you have it—a delightful chicken and rice dish ready to impress! Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve created a culinary masterpiece right at home!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first for maximum flavor, then cook the rice while preparing your favorite veggies. This sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time and stays deliciously juicy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or even add some pineapple for a sweet twist. Experimenting with spices like paprika or curry can elevate your dish further!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to keep it moist and flavorful.

The first time I made chicken and rice for friends, they insisted I should open a restaurant. Who knew I could turn a simple recipe into a crowd-pleaser?

FAQ

What can I use instead of chicken?

Try tofu or shrimp for different protein options in chicken and rice recipes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just store separately and reheat when ready to serve.

What sides go well with chicken and rice?

Steamed broccoli or a fresh salad complement chicken and rice wonderfully.

Print

Chicken and Rice

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Chicken and rice is a timeless comfort dish that fills your home with warmth and mouthwatering aromas. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender chicken breasts with fluffy long-grain rice, aromatic garlic, and savory spices. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together around the table. Impress your guests or enjoy a cozy night in with every delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approx. 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 tsp paprika (or your favorite spice)
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Rinse chicken breasts under cold water, pat dry, and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add long-grain rice and desired spices; stir to coat the rice in the aromatic mixture.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer while scraping any bits from the bottom of the skillet.
5. Nestle seasoned chicken breasts into the mixture, cover tightly, and cook undisturbed for 20-25 minutes until everything is tender.
6. Remove from heat and let sit covered for another 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added flavor, sear the chicken before adding it to the skillet. Feel free to swap vegetables based on availability or add fruit like pineapple for sweetness. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days; reheat with a splash of broth to retain moisture.