Easy Chicken and Rice for Busy Weeknight Dinners

Name: Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves four
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long grain rice (or jasmine rice); 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tbsp lemon juice

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

April 13, 2025

Updated:

April 13, 2025

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The aroma of sizzling chicken fills the air, mingling with the comforting scent of rice as it cooks to fluffy perfection. Chicken and rice for busy weeknight dinners is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy after a long day.

Picture this: you walk in after a hectic day, your energy levels teetering on the brink of extinction. Suddenly, the thought of whipping up a delicious chicken and rice dish sparks a flicker of hope. You can almost taste the savory flavors and feel the satisfying texture, and trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken and rice recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, making dinner preparation quick and stress-free
The dish offers endless customization options based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing family or guests
Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home

I remember one evening when I decided to surprise my family with this dish after they’d had a particularly tough week. Their eyes lit up when they walked into the kitchen, and my son declared it “the best dinner ever.” That moment? Priceless.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust according to how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Long Grain Rice: Use long grain for fluffy texture; jasmine rice works excellent for added aroma.
Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves to impart robust flavor that elevates the dish.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better salt control while enhancing the flavor profile.
Vegetables (Bell Peppers, Carrots): Brighten your dish with colorful veggies; add them according to your preference.
Spices (Paprika, Black Pepper): Spices add depth; smoked paprika gives an irresistible smoky flavor.

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps maintain flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
Lemon Juice: A splash adds brightness and balances flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients before starting. Chop vegetables into bite-sized pieces and mince garlic for easy cooking later on.

Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil and sear chicken until golden brown on both sides—about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.

Add Vegetables and Garlic: Toss in chopped vegetables and minced garlic into the skillet once the chicken is done. Sauté until veggies are tender and fragrant—around 5 minutes.

Add Rice and Broth: Stir in long grain rice until coated with all those delicious flavors. Pour chicken broth over everything and bring to a boil.

Simmer Everyone Together: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice absorbs broth completely—check occasionally to avoid sticking.

Add Final Touches: Once cooked through, fluff rice with a fork. Drizzle soy sauce and lemon juice over everything before serving hot!

And there you have it! You’re now equipped with not just any recipe but a delightful chicken and rice meal that will transform even the busiest of weeknights into something special. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

You Must Know

This chicken and rice recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights
With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s both satisfying and quick
The aroma of the spices fills your kitchen, making everyone hungry before dinner even starts

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the chicken to lock in flavors, then cook rice simultaneously as you prepare your sauce. This multitasking ensures everything finishes together, creating a harmonious dish.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different vegetables or proteins based on what’s in your fridge. This recipe is flexible, allowing for various seasonings to match your taste preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use bone-in chicken for extra flavor; it makes a world of difference
Don’t skip resting your chicken after cooking; it helps retain juices for a tender bite
Try adding lemon zest at the end for a fresh kick that brightens the dish

Sharing this recipe brings back fond memories of family dinners filled with laughter and compliments about my culinary skills—who knew chicken and rice could bring such joy?

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes for brown rice.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze chicken and rice; just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

What herbs work best with chicken and rice?

Thyme, rosemary, or parsley add delightful flavors that complement the dish beautifully.

0 Shares