chicken and rice dinner recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best chicken and rice dinner recipe

I love cooking chicken and rice dinner recipe because it’s a classic dish that never goes out of style. It’s a staple in many households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, delicious, and can be customized to suit any taste.

The dish has its roots in Middle Eastern cuisine, where chicken and rice were staples in many meals. The combination of flavors and textures is unbeatable, with the tender chicken and fluffy rice perfectly complementing each other.

One of the key techniques in making this dish is to use a flavorful broth to cook the chicken and rice, which adds depth and richness to the meal. I’ve made this recipe countless times for my family, and it’s always a hit.

My kids love helping me cook it, too – they enjoy stirring the pot and watching the rice cook. It’s a great way to spend quality time together while making a healthy and satisfying meal.

In fact, I often serve this dish at family gatherings because it’s easy to scale up and feeds a crowd. Plus, it’s a great way to get everyone around the table eating together.

Chicken and Rice Dinner

4.5 from 768 votes

A comforting and flavorful chicken and rice dinner, perfect for a family meal. Tender chicken cooked with aromatic spices and fluffy rice, all in one dish.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Rice

1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf

For Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Set aside.
2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3Once oil is shimmering and almost smoking, add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
5In the same skillet, add onion and garlic.
6Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
7The onions should be translucent and the garlic should be lightly golden.
8Add rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the onion and garlic mixture.
9Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted and slightly golden.
10Pour in chicken broth, and add thyme and bay leaf.
11Stir well to combine.
12Bring the mixture to a boil.
13Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
14The rice should be fluffy and the grains should be separate.
15Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice.
16Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
17The chicken should be no longer pink in the middle and the juices should run clear.
18Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
19This allows the flavors to meld together and the rice to finish steaming.
20Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet with a lid
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute brown rice for a healthier option. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Watch Video Of How Chicken and Rice Dinner Works

I’m so glad I shared my love for this recipe with all of you! Chicken and rice dinner is truly one of my go-to dishes for family gatherings – it’s easy to make ahead of time, reheats well if needed (and let me tell you – leftovers are always welcome!)

, serves a crowd (if needed), works well on any occasion (or everyday). So go ahead – give this classic recipe a try tonight!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Rice Dinner

1. Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

You can use a different type of rice, but keep in mind that the cooking time and liquid ratio may vary. Long grain rice is recommended for this recipe because it is fluffy and light. Short grain rice may become mushy, while brown rice will require more cooking time and liquid.

2. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. To do this, place the chicken, vegetables, and rice in the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method will result in a more tender chicken and rice.

3. Can I freeze leftovers of this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this recipe. Allow the leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the leftovers in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add other vegetables to this recipe. Some great options include bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. Keep in mind that some vegetables may require less cooking time than others, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

5. Can I make this recipe without chicken?

Yes, you can make this recipe without chicken. To do this, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or beans to the pot. This will make the dish vegetarian-friendly and just as delicious.

6. Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can make this recipe in the oven. To do this, place the chicken, vegetables, and rice in a baking dish. Pour in the chicken broth and cover with foil. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

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