Looking for a quick, delicious, and easy-to-make dinner? This 30-minute one-pan chicken and rice is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Made with simple ingredients, this dish is packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup.
With tender, juicy chicken and perfectly seasoned rice, this meal is a family favorite that’s easy to customize. Whether you like it spicy, creamy, or loaded with veggies, this recipe has you covered!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ One pan, easy cleanup – Everything cooks in a single skillet.
✔ Ready in 30 minutes – A fast meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
✔ Customizable – Adjust the spices, add vegetables, or make it creamy.
✔ Meal-prep friendly – Stores well for leftovers or quick lunches.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Best Chicken Cuts for This Recipe
For juicy, flavorful results, use:
- Chicken breasts – Lean, quick-cooking, and easy to slice.
- Chicken thighs – More tender and forgiving if slightly overcooked.
If using bone-in chicken, increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.
Can I Use Different Types of Rice?
- Long-grain white rice – Best for fluffy texture.
- Jasmine or basmati rice – Adds an aromatic touch.
- Brown rice – Requires more liquid and a longer cooking time (40 minutes).
- Cauliflower rice – For a low-carb version, but reduce the broth amount.
How to Cook Chicken and Rice in One Pan
Searing the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season 2 boneless chicken breasts (cubed) with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, then remove from the pan.
👉 Want more diced chicken recipes? Check out this Diced Chicken Recipe for more cooking ideas!
Sautéing Aromatics and Toasting the Rice
- In the same pan, add 1 small chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves.
- Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in 1 cup of uncooked rice and toast for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
- Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional).
Simmering the Ingredients to Perfection
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, return the seared chicken to the pan, and cover.
- Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In the last 5 minutes, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream (optional) and ½ cup of frozen peas or carrots.
Adding the Final Touches Before Serving
- Once the rice has absorbed the liquid, remove from heat.
- Sprinkle with ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy a comforting, one-pan meal!
Tips for Perfect One-Pan Chicken and Rice
How to Avoid Mushy Rice
- Use the right liquid-to-rice ratio – Too much liquid makes it soggy.
- Let the rice rest for 5 minutes before serving to absorb excess moisture.
- Don’t stir too often – It can release starch and make the dish sticky.
Secret Ingredients to Boost Flavor
- Lemon zest – Adds brightness and balances richness.
- Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce – Enhances umami depth.
- A pinch of smoked paprika – Gives a subtle smoky taste.
The History of Chicken and Rice Dishes
This classic chicken and rice combination is popular across different cultures:
Latin America: Arroz con Pollo
A flavorful, saffron-infused dish made with bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices.
Southern USA: Jambalaya
A Cajun classic combining chicken, sausage, and rice in a bold, spicy broth.
Spain: Traditional Paella
A famous dish featuring saffron rice, chicken, seafood, and vegetables.
No matter where you go, chicken and rice is a comforting, satisfying meal with endless variations!
Reader’s Favorite Additions & Variations
Vegetable Add-Ins
- Bell peppers – Add sweetness and crunch.
- Mushrooms – Deepen the umami flavor.
- Spinach or kale – Boosts nutrition with minimal effort.
Spicy & Bold Flavor Variations
- Jalapeños or chili flakes – For heat lovers.
- Cajun seasoning – Adds smoky, bold flavors.
- Curry powder – Turns this into a one-pan chicken curry.
👉 Want more bold rice-based recipes? Check out these Sausage and Rice Recipes for more delicious variations!
Making It Creamy vs. Light
- For a creamy version: Stir in heavy cream or cream cheese.
- For a lighter version: Use low-sodium broth and skip the dairy.
👉 Love creamy chicken dishes? Try this Creamy Garlic Chicken for another rich and flavorful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Best Side Dishes to Pair with This Meal
- Side salad – A fresh salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Roasted vegetables – Asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts.
- Garlic bread – A crispy side to soak up the sauce.
How to Turn Leftovers into Another Dish
- Stuffed bell peppers – Mix leftovers with cheese and bake.
- Chicken and rice soup – Add extra broth for a cozy soup.
- Breakfast scramble – Sauté with eggs for a protein-packed breakfast.
👉 For more stuffed bell pepper recipes, check out these Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipes for creative meal ideas!
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
How Long Does It Last in the Fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes! Let the dish cool completely before freezing for up to 3 months.
Best Way to Reheat Without Drying It Out
Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep the rice moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Dairy-Free?
Yes! Simply omit the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.
What’s the Best Skillet to Use?
A large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan ensures even cooking.
Is This Recipe Kid-Friendly?
Absolutely! Skip the red pepper flakes for a milder version that kids will love.
Final Thoughts
This 30-minute one-pan chicken and rice is the ultimate weeknight dinner—fast, easy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it creamy, spicy, or packed with veggies, it’s a recipe that never gets old.
Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and share your favorite way to customize it!