Looking for the perfect comfort food combination?
Chicken and rice recipes offer endless possibilities to create satisfying, wholesome meals that will please your entire family.
From creamy casseroles to vibrant stir-fries, these versatile ingredients come together in delicious harmony.
Get ready to explore ten mouthwatering chicken and rice dishes that range from quick weeknight dinners to impressive entertaining options.
Whether you crave international flavors or classic comfort food, these tested recipes will help you create memorable meals while keeping your cooking simple and stress-free.
Classic Arroz con Pollo with Saffron and Bell Peppers

Arroz con Pollo is a beloved Spanish-Caribbean dish that brings together tender chicken and flavorful saffron rice studded with colorful bell peppers.
This one-pot meal combines aromatic spices and fresh ingredients to create a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 pinch saffron threads
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup frozen peas
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step 1: Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown chicken for 5-6 minutes per side.
Step 2: Remove chicken and set aside. In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
Step 3: Add bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
Step 4: Stir in rice, saffron, paprika, and bay leaves. Toast rice for 2 minutes.
Step 5: Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Return chicken to pan.
Step 6: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender.
Step 7: Add peas, cover, and cook for additional 5 minutes. Garnish with cilantro.
Pro Tip: For the best results, don’t lift the lid while the rice is cooking – this helps maintain the perfect steam environment. Also, let your dish rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Creamy Coconut Curry Chicken and Basmati Rice

Transport your taste buds to an exotic paradise with this rich and aromatic Creamy Coconut Curry Chicken.
This comforting dish combines tender chicken pieces swimming in a velvety coconut curry sauce, served over fluffy basmati rice that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
Ingredients:
• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
• 2 cups basmati rice
• 2 cans (14 oz each) coconut milk
• 3 tbsp curry powder
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Rinse basmati rice until water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions using chicken broth.
Step 2: Season chicken chunks with salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp curry powder.
Step 3: Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Brown chicken for 5-6 minutes.
Step 4: Remove chicken, add onions to the same pan. Sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes).
Step 5: Add garlic, ginger, and remaining curry powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Pour in coconut milk, return chicken to pan. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until sauce thickens.
Step 7: Add peas, cook for additional 3 minutes. Serve over rice and garnish with cilantro.
Pro Tip: For the creamiest curry, use full-fat coconut milk and let it simmer until it reaches your desired consistency. Don’t rush the cooking process – allowing the curry to simmer helps the flavors develop and meld together perfectly.
Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet

Transform your weeknight dinner into a Mediterranean feast with this vibrant one-pan wonder.
This dish combines succulent chicken, fragrant herbs, and fluffy rice, all infused with bright lemon flavors and Mediterranean-inspired ingredients that create a perfect harmony of tastes.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1½ cups long-grain white rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 sliced)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup kalamata olives
• 1 cup artichoke hearts
• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant (30 seconds).
Step 4: Add rice, stir to coat with oil, then add chicken broth and lemon juice.
Step 5: Return chicken to skillet, add lemon slices, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 6: Add tomatoes, olives, and artichokes. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until rice is tender.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Pro Tip: For the most flavorful results, let your chicken marinate with the herbs and lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking. Always allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together perfectly.
Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry with Jasmine Rice

Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry with Jasmine Rice is a delicious Asian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken pieces with colorful vegetables in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
This quick and satisfying meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cups jasmine rice
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 carrots, julienned
• 1 cup snap peas
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds for garnish
Step 1: Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions.
Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Add chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
Step 4: Remove chicken and set aside. In the same pan, add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
Step 5: Add all vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.
Step 6: Return chicken to the pan, add teriyaki sauce, and cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is well-coated and heated through.
Step 7: Serve over jasmine rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Pro Tip: For the best results, have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking, as stir-frying moves quickly. Also, don’t overcrowd your pan – cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning of the chicken.
Persian-Style Chicken and Rice with Crispy Bottom

Experience the magic of Persian cuisine with this aromatic chicken and rice dish, famous for its golden, crispy bottom layer called tahdig.
This one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, fragrant saffron rice, and a perfectly crunchy base that will transport you straight to Iran’s traditional kitchens.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in
• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup hot water
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Soak rice in cold water for 1 hour, then rinse until water runs clear.
Step 2: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and turmeric.
Step 3: Brown chicken in oil over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté onions until golden, add garlic, and cook for 1 minute.
Step 5: Parboil rice for 7 minutes, drain.
Step 6: Mix saffron with hot water in a small bowl.
Step 7: Layer half the rice, place chicken pieces, top with remaining rice.
Step 8: Mix yogurt with a cup of rice and spread on the bottom of the pot.
Step 9: Pour saffron water over rice, cover, and cook on low for 45 minutes.
Pro Tip: To achieve the perfect crispy bottom, line your pot with lavash bread or potato slices instead of the yogurt-rice mixture. Never lift the lid during cooking – the steam is crucial for perfect rice texture.
Cajun Spiced Chicken and Dirty Rice

Cajun Spiced Chicken and Dirty Rice: A Louisiana classic that brings bold flavors right to your dinner table.
This one-pan wonder combines succulent chicken thighs seasoned with authentic Cajun spices and serves them over a bed of flavorful rice studded with vegetables and aromatic seasonings.
Ingredients:
• 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 cups long-grain rice
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 bell peppers, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Season chicken thighs generously with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 3: Remove chicken and set aside. In the same pan, sauté onions, celery, and bell peppers for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add garlic, rice, remaining Cajun seasoning, and thyme. Stir for 2 minutes.
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth, add bay leaves, and bring to a boil.
Step 6: Return chicken to pan, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender.
Step 7: Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Pro Tip: For the most authentic flavor, toast your Cajun spices in a dry pan before using them to release their essential oils. Also, don’t skip the crucial step of searing the chicken skin until golden – this adds depth to the entire dish.
Indian Butter Chicken with Fragrant Rice Pilaf

Indian Butter Chicken with Fragrant Rice Pilaf is a luxurious dish that combines tender, marinated chicken in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce served alongside aromatic rice.
This classic Indian restaurant favorite can be easily recreated in your home kitchen, bringing authentic flavors to your dinner table.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 2 tablespoons ginger paste
• 2 tablespoons garlic paste
• 1 cup butter
• 2 cups tomato puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
For the Rice Pilaf:
• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 cups water
• 4 cardamom pods
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste
Step 1: Marinate chicken in yogurt, 1 tablespoon garam masala, half the ginger and garlic paste for 4 hours.
Step 2: Grill marinated chicken in oven at 400°F for 15 minutes until slightly charred.
Step 3: In a large pan, melt butter and sauté remaining ginger-garlic paste until fragrant.
Step 4: Add tomato puree, remaining garam masala, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 5: Add grilled chicken and cream, simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 6: For rice, sauté whole spices in oil, add rice, water, and cook until fluffy.
Pro Tip: For the most authentic taste, ensure you don’t skip the marination time as it’s crucial for tender, flavorful chicken. Always let your butter chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Greek Lemon Chicken and Oregano Rice Bowl

Transform your dinner routine with this vibrant Mediterranean dish that combines zesty lemon-marinated chicken with aromatic oregano rice.
This wholesome bowl brings together the bright flavors of Greece in a satisfying, nutritious meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.
Ingredients:
• 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 3 lemons (2 for juice, 1 for serving)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Greek yogurt for serving
Step 1: Mix lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon dried oregano. Marinate chicken in this mixture for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook rice in chicken broth with 1 tablespoon dried oregano until fluffy (about 20 minutes).
Step 3: Grill marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
Step 4: Prepare the vegetable mixture by combining tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion with remaining olive oil.
Step 5: Slice chicken and assemble bowls with rice, vegetables, and chicken.
Step 6: Garnish with fresh oregano, lemon wedges, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Pro Tip: For the most flavorful results, let your chicken marinate overnight in the refrigerator. Always let your chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to ensure the juices redistribute properly, resulting in perfectly moist meat.
One-Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

This hearty and comforting one-pot meal combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and vegetables in a creamy, savory sauce.
You’ll love how this classic casserole brings together simple ingredients for a satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 1½ cups wild rice blend
• 3 carrots, diced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then brown for 5-6 minutes.
Step 2: Remove chicken and set aside. Add butter to the pot and sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add garlic and thyme, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in wild rice, then add chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer covered for 35 minutes.
Step 5: Return chicken to pot, add cream and peas. Cook for additional 10 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Pro Tip: For the perfect rice texture, resist the urge to lift the lid while the rice is cooking. You can test the rice’s doneness by tilting the pot slightly – there should be no liquid pooling at the bottom when it’s ready.
Mexican Cilantro Lime Chicken with Yellow Rice

Mexican Cilantro Lime Chicken with Yellow Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines zesty marinated chicken with aromatic yellow rice.
This recipe brings the authentic taste of Mexican cuisine to your kitchen in under an hour, perfect for a weeknight dinner that’ll impress your family.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
For the Yellow Rice:
• 2 cups long-grain rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 tbsp butter
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Mix lime juice, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, cumin, and chili powder in a bowl. Add chicken and marinate for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
Step 3: In a separate pot, sauté diced onion in butter until translucent.
Step 4: Add rice, turmeric, and garlic powder. Toast for 2 minutes.
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes covered.
Step 6: Let rice rest for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Step 7: Serve chicken over yellow rice, garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Pro Tip: For the most flavorful results, marinate your chicken for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. Also, don’t skip toasting the rice with spices before adding liquid – this step develops a deeper, richer flavor in your yellow rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes chicken and rice such a popular combination for easy weeknight meals?
Chicken and rice offer endless versatility while providing balanced nutrition. The combination creates a filling meal that’s budget-friendly and can be flavored with various seasonings and ingredients.
Which cooking method yields the most flavorful one-pot chicken and rice dish?
Searing chicken first, then cooking rice in the same pan with broth captures all the delicious flavors. This method allows the rice to absorb the chicken juices and seasonings while cooking.
How can you prevent chicken and rice casseroles from becoming dry?
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts and add enough liquid to the rice. Covering the dish while baking and letting it rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking helps retain moisture.
What’s the secret to making restaurant-style chicken biryani at home?
Layer partially cooked basmati rice with marinated chicken and aromatic spices. Steam everything together while sealed tightly, allowing the flavors to meld and the rice to fully cook.
Which vegetables pair best with chicken and rice dishes?
Colorful bell peppers, carrots, and peas complement chicken and rice perfectly. These vegetables add nutrition and texture while absorbing the dish’s flavors during cooking.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer classic comfort food or international flavors, these chicken and rice recipes offer something for every palate.
Remember to always use fresh ingredients and properly season your rice for the best results.
Don’t hesitate to adjust spice levels to suit your taste, and experiment with different herbs and vegetables to make these dishes your own.
For meal prep convenience, most of these recipes keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be easily reheated.
With these versatile recipes in your cooking arsenal, you’ll never run out of delicious dinner options.