What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade chicken and rice recipe is a comforting classic that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll love how simple it is to put together, even on busy weeknights. It’s a one-pot wonder**, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The tender chicken and fluffy rice create a perfect balance of textures that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s versatile and customizable**, so you can add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
Recipe
Craving a comforting and hearty meal? This homemade chicken and rice recipe is a classic dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory seasonings for a satisfying meal everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the rice and stir to coat it with the oil and seasonings.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in frozen peas (if using) during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then fluff the rice before serving.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, use bone-in chicken and adjust cooking time as needed.
- Substitute brown rice for white rice, but increase the cooking time and add more broth.
- Add other vegetables like carrots or corn for additional texture and nutrition.
Equipment:
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 4
Nutrition
This homemade chicken and rice recipe provides essential nutrients for a balanced meal. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 350 | 28g | 35g | 10g | 75mg | 500mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade chicken and rice with something fresh, like a crisp side salad or steamed veggies. They add color and crunch, balancing the dish perfectly. Trust me, it’s a simple way to make the meal feel complete without extra fuss.
Side Salads
Since a simple chicken and rice dish pairs well with fresh, crisp flavors, a side salad can brighten up the meal without overpowering it. I love tossing together a mix of greens like spinach, arugula, or romaine, adding a pop of color with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or shredded carrots. A light vinaigrette—maybe lemon and olive oil or balsamic—keeps it tangy but not heavy. Sometimes, I sprinkle in nuts or seeds for crunch. It’s quick, healthy, and balances the heartiness of the main dish. Plus, it’s so easy to customize based on what’s in your fridge!
Steamed Vegetables
Steamed vegetables are a no-fuss way to add color, nutrients, and a bit of crunch to your chicken and rice. I love how quick and easy they are to make, especially when I’m in a hurry. Broccoli, carrots, and green beans are my go-to choices, but you can mix in whatever you have on hand. I just toss them in a steamer basket for a few minutes, then sprinkle with a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor. They stay vibrant and crisp, balancing the heartiness of the chicken and rice perfectly. Plus, they make the plate look so inviting!
