Dinner Recipes Rice Chicken Delicious & Healthy

Dinner Recipes Rice Chicken

Chicken and rice are two ingredients that come together in countless delicious ways. They are staples in many kitchens because they are versatile, filling, and easy to prepare. With the right recipes, chicken and rice can create comforting meals that the whole family will enjoy.

I love exploring various dinner recipes that combine these two ingredients. From one-pot meals to casseroles, the possibilities are endless. Whether I want something quick for a busy weeknight or a cozy dish for the weekend, chicken and rice recipes always deliver satisfaction and flavor.

1. One Pot Chicken and Rice Bake

Cooking dinner can sometimes feel overwhelming, but one pot meals are a fantastic way to simplify the process. One of my favorites is the One Pot Chicken and Rice Bake. It’s not only straightforward but also delicious.

The beauty of this dish is that it combines chicken, rice, and vegetables all in one pot. This makes cleanup easy and allows the flavors to blend beautifully.

Ingredients

To make this dish, I start with basic ingredients. Here’s what I typically use:

• 2 cups of long-grain rice
• 4 chicken thighs or breasts, skinless
• 1 can of cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups of chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Preparation Time

Here’s a quick look at the preparation time and nutrients for this recipe:

Cooking Process

I begin by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, I grab a large oven-safe pot. I heat some olive oil over medium heat.

Once the oil is ready, I add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cooking these until soft adds a wonderful aroma to the dish. Next, I season the chicken with salt and pepper before placing it into the pot.

I sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side. This step locks in moisture and flavor. I then remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.

In the same pot, I add the rice. It’s important to mix it with the oil and juices left in the pot. This gives the rice extra flavor.

After stirring, I pour in the chicken broth and add the cream of chicken soup. I mix everything together until it’s well combined.

Next comes the fun part: I place the chicken back on top of the rice mixture. This way, the chicken cooks evenly while the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors.

I cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. This dish takes about 30-35 minutes to cook.

Adding Vegetables

A few minutes before the cooking time is up, I take the pot out to add frozen peas. I sprinkle them on top of the chicken and rice. Covering it again, I return it to the oven for about 5-10 more minutes.

This addition of peas not only adds a pop of color but also nutrition to the meal. Plus, it makes the dish look more appealing.

Serving Suggestions

Once the timer goes off, I carefully remove the pot from the oven. The chicken should be cooked thoroughly, and the rice will be fluffy and tender.

I use forks to gently fluff the rice, mixing in the peas. Then, I serve the chicken and rice on plates. It pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.

Tips for Success

To make this dish even better, I often follow a few tips:

• Ensure you use enough liquid. The rice needs enough broth to cook properly.
• For a bit of spice, I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten up the dish.

Why I Love This Recipe

What I love most about this One Pot Chicken and Rice Bake is the versatility. I can easily adjust the ingredients. If I have leftover veggies, I toss them in. This recipe is a great way to use what I have on hand.

Additionally, it’s comforting and perfect for busy weeknights. The fact that it’s cooked in one pot means less fuss and more time to relax.

Conclusion

The One Pot Chicken and Rice Bake is truly a go-to dinner recipe. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s one of my favorites.

This dish can easily become a part of your regular dinner rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the simplicity and taste it offers!

With this recipe, I hope you find dinner with rice and chicken an enjoyable experience. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious.

2. Cajun Spiced Chicken and Rice

I love cooking with bold flavors, and Cajun Spiced Chicken and Rice is one of my go-to dinner recipes. This dish is easy to prepare and packed with a delicious kick. It combines tender chicken with perfectly seasoned rice, making it a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

To make Cajun Spiced Chicken and Rice, I use the following ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breasts
• 1 cup rice (white or brown)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time

The preparation time for this dish is about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is around 30 minutes, making it a quick dinner option.

Cooking Process

To start, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, I add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Next, I season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. I place them into the skillet with the vegetables. I cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it is browned and cooked through.

After that, I remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, I add the minced garlic and stir it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, I add the rice, chicken broth, and any remaining Cajun seasoning.

I bring the mixture to a simmer and then lower the heat. I cover the skillet and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the flavors.

Once the rice is tender, I add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. I gently stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. This ensures the chicken drains its juice into the rice, enhancing the flavor.

Serving My Dish

I love to serve my Cajun Spiced Chicken and Rice hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of color. The spices create a warm and inviting aroma that brings everyone to the table.

Variations

There are many ways to customize this dish. Sometimes, I add vegetables like zucchini or tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also spice it up by adding more Cajun seasoning or a splash of hot sauce.

Another variation I enjoy is using shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist. This still maintains the Cajun flavors and makes for a delightful change.

Why I Love This Recipe

Cajun Spiced Chicken and Rice is not just easy to make but also fulfills my love for hearty meals. The combination of spices, chicken, and rice is filling and comforting. Best of all, it’s great for leftovers, too.

When I prepare this dish, I love how the flavors deepen as it sits. It’s perfect for meal prep, as I can pack it for lunch the next day.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish offers a good balance of protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the rice. The vegetables add fiber and essential vitamins, making it a wholesome option for dinner.

Cajun spices also provide health benefits like anti-inflammatory properties. They can help to boost the metabolism, which is a nice plus.

Final Thoughts

Cajun Spiced Chicken and Rice is a fantastic meal for busy evenings. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe I always keep in my rotation. If you’re looking for dinner recipes with rice and chicken, give this one a try! If you’d like to explore more options, I recommend checking out Cajun Chicken & Rice Skillet or the Cajun Chicken and Rice recipe for delicious variations as well.

3. Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

I enjoy making Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole because it is comforting and simple to prepare. This recipe combines chicken, rice, and a creamy sauce for a wholesome meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or even meal prep for the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

To start, let me share the preparation and cooking time for this dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to make this casserole:

• 4 cups cooked white rice
• 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole cooks evenly.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Then, add the flour, stirring constantly. This will create a roux, which thickens the sauce.

Gradually pour in the milk while whisking the mixture. Keep stirring until it thickens, which takes about 5-7 minutes.

Add the chicken bouillon powder and season with salt and pepper. After mixing in the creamy sauce, incorporate your cooked chicken and mixed vegetables.

Now, mix in your cooked rice until everything is evenly combined. I find this step crucial to ensure each bite is delicious.

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. If you’d like, top it off with shredded cheese for an extra cheesy layer.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Nutritional Information

Let’s look at the nutrition facts for one serving of Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole:

Serving Suggestions

Once your casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to blend.

You can serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread. It pairs well with fresh veggies, too.

This dish also offers great leftovers. Just store any uneaten casserole in the fridge. It tastes just as good re-heated.

Variations

There are several ways to customize this recipe. If you want a healthier version, consider using brown rice instead of white rice. This adds more fiber and nutrients to your meal.

Another option is to swap the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based protein. You can also play with the vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, or corn work well.

For a hint of spice, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Adjusting the seasonings can make the dish more exciting.

Conclusion of Cooking

Making Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is straightforward. I love that it’s adaptable, allowing me to get creative in the kitchen. Plus, it brings back warm memories of family dinners.

This recipe fits perfectly in my collection of dinner recipes with rice and chicken. It’s a family favorite that seems to please everyone’s taste.

I hope you enjoy preparing this casserole as much as I do. It’s a meal I can rely on during busy weeknights.

Try this recipe for your next family dinner. I guarantee it will be a hit.

4. Garlic and Herb Chicken with Rice

Garlic and herb chicken with rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and fluffy rice. I love how simple it is to prepare while packing a punch of flavor. This recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner.

Preparation Time

The preparation for this recipe takes about 10 minutes, with cooking time around 30 minutes. In total, you can have it ready in about 40 minutes.

Ingredients

For this dish, I typically use:

• 4 chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 cups of long-grain rice
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutrients in this dish:

Cooking Instructions

To start, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. While the oil heats, I season the chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.

When the oil is hot, I carefully place the chicken in the pan. I like to brown each side for about 5 minutes. This step is key to locking in flavor.

Once the chicken is browned, I add the minced garlic and stir everything together. Cooking the garlic for about a minute allows it to release its aroma without burning.

Next, I pour in the chicken broth and add the rice to the pan. I stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle boil. Reducing the heat to low is important to allow everything to simmer.

I cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. During this time, the chicken finishes cooking and the rice absorbs all the flavors.

When the time is up, I check to ensure the chicken is cooked through. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If everything is cooked, I remove the pan from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes.

Serving the Dish

Before serving, I like to fluff the rice with a fork. This keeps it from becoming sticky. I often garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and additional flavor.

This garlic and herb chicken with rice makes for a hearty meal. The combination of garlic and herbs adds a rich taste that complements the chicken beautifully.

Tips and Variations

If you want to customize the recipe, consider adding vegetables such as peas or carrots. Adding them in the last 10 minutes of cooking can make the dish even more nutritious.

I’ve also tried using brown rice instead of white. It requires a bit more cooking time but adds a nice nuttiness to the flavor.

For an extra kick, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the dish.

Why I Love This Recipe

What I appreciate about garlic and herb chicken with rice is its simplicity. It’s a straightforward recipe, but the flavors come together so well.

This recipe can easily feed a family or provide leftovers for lunch. Plus, it fits perfectly within the theme of dinner recipes rice and chicken.

Whenever I make this dish, I am reminded of how satisfying home-cooked meals can be. The process is enjoyable, and the end result is always rewarding.

Final Thoughts

I often get requests for this recipe from friends and family. They appreciate how easy it is to prepare while still being filling and delicious.

Next time I am in need of a comforting dinner, garlic and herb chicken with rice is sure to be my go-to dish. It’s a classic that never disappoints.

Whether you are cooking for yourself or feeding a group, this recipe brings everyone together. The savory aroma fills the kitchen, making dinner feel special.

By incorporating garlic and herbs, I ensure every bite is packed with flavor. It’s a dish I am proud to serve at my table.

5. Chicken and Vegetable Rice Pilaf

I enjoy making Chicken and Vegetable Rice Pilaf for dinner. It is a wholesome meal that combines tender chicken with colorful vegetables and flavorful rice. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it is also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables in your fridge.

Preparation Time

The prep time for Chicken and Vegetable Rice Pilaf is about 15 minutes. Cooking time takes around 30 minutes. In total, you can have this delicious meal ready in under an hour.

Nutrients

Ingredients

To make Chicken and Vegetable Rice Pilaf, I use the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of rice (long-grain or basmati)
• 1 pound of chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup of mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and bell peppers)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (like thyme or oregano)

Cooking Method

First, I heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, I add the chopped onion and minced garlic. I cook them until they are soft and fragrant, usually about 3-4 minutes.

Next, I add the diced chicken to the pot. I make sure to season it with salt, pepper, and dried herbs. I cook the chicken until it is browned on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

After the chicken is browned, I add the rice to the pot. I stir it well to coat it in the oil and combine it with the chicken, onion, and garlic. Cooking rice with the chicken and vegetables adds wonderful flavor to the dish.

Once everything is mixed, I pour in the chicken broth. I raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. After it boils, I reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. I let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the broth and become tender.

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, I add the mixed vegetables. I find that adding them later keeps them bright and crisp. After the rice is fully cooked, I remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for another 5 minutes with the lid on.

Finally, I fluff the rice with a fork before serving. The Chicken and Vegetable Rice Pilaf is perfect on its own but can also be paired with a green salad or bread.

Variations

I love to customize this dish based on what I have on hand. Sometimes, I add different vegetables like zucchini or spinach. You can even switch out the chicken for turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. This makes it versatile for any palate.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick. You can experiment with herbs too, like parsley or cilantro, for added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

When I serve Chicken and Vegetable Rice Pilaf, I like to garnish it with fresh herbs. Chopped parsley or cilantro adds a nice touch. A squeeze of lemon juice also brightens up the flavors wonderfully.

I often serve this dish alongside a simple yogurt sauce or a side of pickled vegetables. These add a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty flavors of the pilaf.

Storing Leftovers

If I have any leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They usually last about 3-4 days. Reheating is simple; I add a splash of broth or water to make sure the rice doesn’t dry out.

This Chicken and Vegetable Rice Pilaf is an excellent choice for meal prep. I sometimes batch-cook it and portion it out for quick lunches during the week.

Final Thoughts

Chicken and Vegetable Rice Pilaf is one of my favorite dinner recipes with rice and chicken. It’s nutritious, easy to prepare, and can be adapted based on my preferences. It’s a sure-win for family dinners or a cozy meal at home.

This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight. I appreciate how quickly I can get a wholesome meal on the table. With just a few ingredients, I can create something that everyone loves.

Give this simple recipe a try, and I think you’ll find it becomes a favorite in your home too. Enjoy your cooking!

and makes serving easier.