9 Best Rice and Chicken Recipes for Delicious Meals

Rice and chicken are two ingredients that can create delicious meals together. Their versatility allows them to be combined in many fun ways, making them popular in various cuisines around the world. I will share nine of my favorite rice and chicken recipes that are easy to prepare and sure to impress.

These recipes highlight different cooking techniques and flavors that can elevate your meals. From savory stir-fries to creamy casseroles, there is something for everyone. Each dish brings unique tastes and textures that can please any palate.

1. Chicken and Rice Casserole

Chicken and Rice Casserole is a simple, comforting dish that combines chicken, rice, and creamy sauce. It’s a great meal for families and can be made with ingredients you likely have at home.

I find this casserole easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe on busy nights. The steps are straightforward, and it usually takes about 1 hour to cook.

Here’s how I make it:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of cooked rice, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, and 1 cup of milk.
3. Add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken and rice are heated through and bubbling.

This dish pairs well with a salad or steamed vegetables. It’s filling and offers a great balance of flavors.

2. Lemon Chicken Rice Soup

Lemon Chicken Rice Soup is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, rice, and a zesty lemon broth. It’s refreshing and comforting, making it a great option for any meal.

This soup is easy to make, taking around 30 minutes from start to finish. I enjoy preparing it on busy days because it’s so straightforward.

Here’s how I make it:

1. Ingredients: I gather cooked chicken, rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, and fresh herbs.
2. Cook Rice: I start by cooking rice according to package instructions.
3. Simmer Broth: In a pot, I heat chicken broth and add shredded chicken.
4. Add Lemon: Once simmering, I stir in lemon juice and zest for that citrus flavor.
5. Mix Together: Finally, I add the cooked rice and chopped herbs, letting everything heat through.

This soup is nutritious and showcases the bright flavors of lemon and chicken. It’s a perfect meal when I want something light yet satisfying.

3. Chicken and Rice Pilaf

Chicken and rice pilaf is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with seasoned rice. The rice absorbs the flavors from the chicken and spices, creating a comforting meal.

I find this recipe easy to prepare. It takes about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the cooking method. Here are simple steps to make it:

1. Start by browning 1 pound of diced chicken in a pan with some oil over medium heat.
2. Add 1 chopped onion and sauté until it softens.
3. Stir in 1 cup of rice and cook for 2 minutes to toast it slightly.
4. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and your choice of spices, like salt, pepper, or herbs.
5. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pan. Let it simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

This dish is versatile and can be customized. I can add vegetables or different spices to suit my tastes. It’s a satisfying option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

4. Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls

Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls are a popular Japanese dish that combines chicken, rice, and a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce. This dish is well-loved for its balance of flavors and textures.

Making Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls is easy and quick. I often prepare them for a weeknight meal. The process involves a few simple steps.

1. Cook 1 cup of rice according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
3. Add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken cut into bite-sized pieces.
4. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it’s golden brown.
5. Pour in 1/2 cup of teriyaki sauce and cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
6. Serve the chicken over rice and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

This dish is satisfying and can be made in under 30 minutes. I find it great for busy days and perfect for meal prep.

5. Chicken and Rice Stuffed Peppers

Chicken and rice stuffed peppers are a tasty and colorful dish. They consist of bell peppers filled with a mixture of cooked chicken, rice, vegetables, and spices. This meal is easy to make and is a great way to use leftover chicken.

To prepare, I follow these simple steps:

1. Cook Rice: First, I cook 1 cup of rice according to package instructions.
2. Prepare Peppers: I cut the tops off 4 bell peppers and remove the seeds.
3. Mix Filling: In a bowl, I combine the cooked rice, 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup of diced tomatoes, and my choice of spices.
4. Stuff Peppers: I fill each pepper with the chicken and rice mixture.
5. Bake: Lastly, I place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes.

These stuffed peppers are satisfying and can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side. They are simple, nutritious, and perfect for any meal.

6. Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice

Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice is a fresh and zesty dish that’s easy to prepare. It combines tender chicken with flavorful cilantro and tangy lime, making it a hit for any meal.

To make this dish, I often use simple ingredients like chicken breasts, rice, cilantro, lime juice, and seasoning. The steps are straightforward:

1. Start by cooking 1 cup of rice according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
3. Season 2 chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Cook the chicken in the skillet for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
5. Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes.
6. Stir in the cooked rice, juice of 1 lime, and a handful of chopped cilantro in the skillet.
7. Slice the chicken and place it on top of the rice mixture.

This dish is perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep. It’s full of flavor and can easily be adjusted to suit my taste.

7. Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice is a popular dish made with rice, chicken, and vegetables. It’s tasty and satisfying. I find it easy to prepare, making it a great option for a quick meal.

To make chicken fried rice, I prefer using leftover rice. This helps prevent sogginess. I also use cooked chicken, which can be from a previous meal or store-bought rotisserie chicken.

Here are the simple steps I follow:

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
3. Stir in diced chicken and vegetables like peas and carrots.
4. Add cold, cooked rice and mix well.
5. Push the rice to one side, then crack an egg into the pan, scrambling it.
6. Combine the egg with the rice and season with soy sauce and pepper.
7. Cook for a few more minutes until heated through.

That’s it! This dish is flexible, so I can add whatever veggies I have on hand. It’s a nutritious way to enjoy chicken and rice in one meal.

8. One-Pot Chicken and Rice

One-Pot Chicken and Rice is a simple yet flavorful dish. It combines chicken and rice cooked together in one pot, allowing the flavors to blend nicely. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

To prepare this dish, I follow these steps:

1. Gather Ingredients: I need chicken pieces, rice, onion, garlic, broth, and my choice of seasonings.
2. Sauté: In a pot, I heat oil and sauté chopped onion and garlic until soft.
3. Add Chicken: I then add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Combine Rice and Broth: Next, I add rice and broth, bringing it to a boil.
5. Simmer: I reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes.
6. Rest: After cooking, I let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving.

This dish is comforting and satisfying. The chicken stays juicy while the rice becomes flavorful and tender. It’s a great meal for busy nights.

9. Chicken Rice Salad

Chicken Rice Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with rice and a variety of vegetables. It’s simple to make and a great option for a healthy meal.

To prepare this salad, I start with cooked chicken and rice. You can use leftover chicken or cook it fresh. I find rotisserie chicken works well for ease.

Here are the basic steps to make Chicken Rice Salad:

1. Cook 1 cup of rice according to package instructions and let it cool.
2. Shred 2 cups of cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Chop 1 cup of mixed vegetables, like bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled rice, chicken, and chopped vegetables.
5. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and squeeze half a lemon for added flavor.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice, such as parsley or cilantro.

Toss everything together and serve. This dish is both nutritious and satisfying, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Rice and Chicken?

Rice and chicken make a nutritious combination that offers many health benefits. They provide essential nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet. Here’s a closer look at their key nutritional benefits.

How Does the Combination of Rice and Chicken Provide High Protein Content?

Chicken is an excellent source of protein, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues. A single serving of cooked chicken can provide about 25-30 grams of protein, depending on the cut. Protein helps in muscle growth and supports various bodily functions.

In contrast, rice has lower protein content, but it complements chicken well. Combining both in a meal offers a balanced protein intake. In addition, incorporating different types of rice, like brown or wild rice, adds even more nutrients while maintaining that protein boost.

What Essential Vitamins and Minerals Are Found in Rice and Chicken?

Both rice and chicken are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Chicken is rich in B vitamins, particularly niacin and B6, which are vital for energy metabolism. These vitamins help convert food into energy, making me feel revitalized.

Rice, especially whole grain varieties, provides important minerals, such as magnesium and iron. Magnesium is essential for muscle and nerve function, while iron is critical for transporting oxygen in the blood. Eating rice and chicken together ensures I get a good mix of these vital nutrients for better overall health.

What Are the Tips for Perfectly Cooking Rice?

Cooking rice well is crucial for many dishes, especially when paired with chicken. Understanding the type of rice, the right water ratios, and cooking techniques can make all the difference in achieving fluffy, delicious rice.

How Do You Choose the Right Type of Rice for Your Dish?

I find that selecting the appropriate type of rice changes how the dish turns out. For instance, long-grain rice, like basmati or jasmine, remains fluffy and separate when cooked. Short-grain rice, such as arborio, becomes creamy, which is great for risottos.

Medium-grain rice balances these two, offering a slightly sticky texture. I prefer to keep a variety on hand to suit different recipes. Always check the packaging for specific cooking instructions. This can help avoid mistakes and ensure that the rice complements my chicken dishes perfectly.

What Are the Proper Rice-to-Water Ratios for Perfect Cooking?

When cooking rice, I use specific water ratios to get the best results. For long-grain white rice, the standard ratio is 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of water. For brown rice, I typically use 1 cup of rice to 2.5 cups of water due to its longer cooking time.

It’s important to measure the rice and water accurately. Too much water can lead to mushy rice, while too little can leave it undercooked. I also suggest rinsing the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which aids in achieving the right texture.

What Cooking Techniques Work Best for Rice?

There are several methods to cook rice, but I often use the absorption method. In this technique, I bring the water to a boil, then add the rinsed rice and a pinch of salt. I reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 18 minutes.

After cooking, I turn off the heat and let it sit for another 5-10 minutes without lifting the lid. This step allows the rice to finish cooking in its steam. Fluffing the rice with a fork afterward makes it light and airy, perfect for serving with chicken.