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Busy nights call for quick, delicious meals that don’t compromise on flavor. Chicken and rice is a timeless combination that’s hearty, satisfying, and easy to throw together in minutes.
Here are five simple and tasty 5-minute chicken and rice dishes you can whip up tonight.
1. Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is rich, buttery, and full of garlic flavor, making it a comforting yet quick meal for any night.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
How to Make It
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add shredded chicken and cooked rice, stirring to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Quick Tip
Use microwaveable rice for an even faster prep time!
2. Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowl
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a sweet and savory dish with an umami-packed teriyaki glaze that comes together in no time.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, diced chicken (grilled or rotisserie)
- ¼ cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
How to Make It
- Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat and add cooked chicken.
- Pour in teriyaki sauce and stir until the chicken is coated.
- Add rice and mix well, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, then serve.
Quick Tip
Add frozen veggies like peas and carrots for extra color and nutrients.
3. Cheesy Chicken and Rice Skillet
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s creamy, cheesy, and ultra-comforting with minimal effort.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It
- In a skillet, combine cooked rice, chicken, cheese, and milk over medium heat.
- Stir well until cheese is melted and everything is creamy (about 2 minutes).
- Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Quick Tip
Swap cheddar for mozzarella for a gooier, stretchier texture.
4. Spicy Sriracha Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish packs a punch with bold, spicy flavors that are addictively delicious.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, diced chicken
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make It
- In a pan over medium heat, combine sriracha, soy sauce, honey, and garlic powder.
- Add cooked chicken and stir until well coated.
- Toss in the rice and stir for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired and serve hot.
Quick Tip
Top with a fried egg for extra richness and protein.
5. Mediterranean Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bright, fresh flavors make this dish light yet satisfying.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
How to Make It
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add shredded chicken, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Toss in the rice and stir for another 2 minutes until heated through.
- Sprinkle with feta cheese before serving.
Quick Tip
Add chopped cucumbers and tomatoes on the side for a refreshing crunch.
6. Buffalo Ranch Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Spicy meets creamy: The heat from the buffalo sauce balances perfectly with the cool, tangy ranch.
- Quick and effortless: No need for extra cooking—just toss everything together and enjoy.
- Crowd-pleaser: Whether for game nights or family dinners, this dish is a guaranteed hit.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce
- 1 tablespoon ranch dressing
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How To Make It
- In a bowl, mix buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Stir in the shredded chicken until well coated.
- Combine with rice and heat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve warm, and enjoy!
Quick Tip
Top with blue cheese crumbles for an extra kick of flavor.
7. Pesto Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and vibrant: The basil pesto adds a refreshing, herby taste.
- No-fuss meal: Just mix and heat—no need for extra steps.
- Nutritious and filling: Healthy fats from pesto make this dish satisfying and wholesome.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, diced chicken
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto
- ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How To Make It
- In a skillet over medium heat, combine cooked chicken and pesto, stirring to coat.
- Add the rice and mix well, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Toss in cherry tomatoes and cook for another minute.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan before serving.
Quick Tip
Use store-bought pesto for convenience, or make your own with fresh basil and nuts.
8. BBQ Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and smoky: A mix of barbecue flavors gives this dish depth.
- Minimal prep required: You can use rotisserie chicken, making it effortless.
- Versatile and customizable: Works great as a rice bowl or burrito filling.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, chopped up or shredded chicken
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ cup corn (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How To Make It
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, then mix chicken, barbecue sauce, and paprika.
- Stir in the rice and corn, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Quick Tip
Use a smoky, honey, or spicy BBQ sauce to switch up the flavors.
9. Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and savory: The mushrooms add an earthy umami flavor.
- Super creamy and comforting: Feels indulgent yet simple to make.
- One-pan magic: Everything cooks together for easy cleanup.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, diced chicken
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
How To Make It
- In a skillet, sauté mushrooms for 2 minutes.
- Add chicken, rice, heavy cream, garlic powder, and salt, stirring well.
- Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is creamy and heated through.
Quick Tip
Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
10. Mexican Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and zesty: The perfect mix of cumin, lime, and spice.
- One-bowl meal: No sides needed—just dig in!
- Great for meal prep: Stays fresh and flavorful for days.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- ¼ cup salsa
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ cup black beans (optional)
- ¼ cup shredded cheese (optional)
How To Make It
- In a skillet over medium heat, mix chicken, salsa, cumin, and chili powder.
- Add rice and black beans, stirring to combine.
- Cook for 2 minutes, top with shredded cheese, and serve warm.
Quick Tip
Squeeze fresh lime over the dish for extra brightness.
11. Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and tangy: The pineapple adds a tropical twist.
- Easy Asian-inspired flavors: A restaurant-quality dish at home.
- Comes together fast: Just mix and heat.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, diced chicken
- ¼ cup teriyaki sauce
- ¼ cup pineapple chunks
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
How To Make It
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add chicken, teriyaki sauce, and pineapple.
- Stir in the rice and cook for 2 minutes.
- Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.
Quick Tip
Use fresh or canned pineapple, depending on availability.
12. Spinach and Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light yet satisfying: The spinach adds freshness without overpowering the dish.
- Creamy and cheesy: Parmesan brings a rich, nutty flavor.
- Packed with nutrients: A great way to sneak in some greens.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- ½ cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How To Make It
- In a skillet over medium heat, mix chicken, spinach, and milk.
- Add rice and Parmesan, stirring to combine.
- Cook for 2 minutes, then serve warm.
Quick Tip
Substitute kale for spinach if you prefer a heartier green.
13. Thai Peanut Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutty and flavorful: Peanut sauce makes it rich and delicious.
- Balanced and filling: Protein, carbs, and healthy fats in one meal.
- Super quick to prepare: Just mix and heat!
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, diced chicken
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts (optional)
How To Make It
- In a skillet over medium heat, mix peanut butter, soy sauce, and sriracha.
- Stir in the chicken and rice, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Top with chopped peanuts and serve warm.
Quick Tip
Drizzle with extra peanut sauce for more flavor.
14. Honey Garlic Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly balanced flavors: Sweet honey and savory garlic go hand in hand.
- Sticky and delicious: Feels like takeout but made at home.
- Quick, simple, and tasty: Just mix and heat!
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How To Make It
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and combine honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
- Add shredded chicken and rice, stirring well.
- Cook for 2 minutes, then serve warm.
Quick Tip
Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for extra flavor.
Here are three more quick and delicious chicken and rice recipes following the same tone, format, and layout:
15. Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and refreshing: The combination of lemon and garlic adds a zesty kick that enhances the flavor of the chicken and rice.
- Simple yet flavorful: A handful of basic ingredients transform into a dish packed with taste.
- Great for digestion: Lemon juice helps brighten the dish while aiding digestion, making this a light yet satisfying meal.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, diced chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ lemon (juice and zest)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
How To Make It
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add chicken, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Mix in the rice and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish with dried parsley and serve warm.
Quick Tip
For extra depth of flavor, use fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of dried parsley.
16. Mediterranean Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and light: The juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil make this dish taste bright and refreshing.
- Great for summer: If you’re craving something lighter than a creamy or cheesy meal, this one is perfect.
- Mediterranean-inspired goodness: Olive oil, basil, and tomatoes create a balanced, healthy meal packed with nutrients.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh, chopped)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
How To Make It
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and sauté for 1-2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in chicken, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Add the cooked rice and stir to combine, heating for another 2 minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Quick Tip
Use sun-dried tomatoes for an even richer tomato flavor.
17. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and indulgent: Parmesan cheese and garlic make this dish ultra-creamy and satisfying.
- Comfort food made easy: If you’re craving something warm and cheesy, this is your go-to.
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor: The sauce comes together quickly, making it perfect for a last-minute meal.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How To Make It
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add shredded chicken, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper, stirring to coat.
- Stir in the rice and Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is creamy and well combined.
- Cook for another 2 minutes, then serve warm.
Quick Tip
For extra creaminess, add an extra splash of milk or a tablespoon of cream cheese.
Why is chicken and rice such a classic combination?
Rice and chicken is like bread and butter, so nourishing. Chicken provides protein while rice brings structure and comfort.
They come together as a balanced and filling base you can build on with spices, herbs, or vegetables.
It’s the backbone of countless dinner recipes, whether you’re making a creamy chicken and rice casserole, chicken fried rice, or a one-pot chicken and broccoli skillet.
Historically, the combination appears in kitchens worldwide: Spanish arroz con pollo, Middle Eastern rice and chicken with fragrant spices, or Southern chicken and cook traditions with seasoned rice.
What ties them together is their ability to transform simple and delicious ingredients into a comforting meal. That’s the beauty of a chicken and rice dish, it feels familiar yet adaptable.
What makes a one-pot chicken and rice recipe so convenient?
A one-pot chicken and rice recipe has all the appeal of simplicity without sacrificing flavor. The cooking process means the rice absorbs the broth, chicken stock, and seasonings, so every bite is deeply flavored.
Plus, it’s a practical choice for an easy weeknight dinner, you only need a skillet, Dutch oven, or even an Instant Pot, and dinner practically makes itself.
If you’ve ever juggled multiple pans on the stove, you know how soothing it is to throw everything into one pot, cover it, and let the magic happen.
Whether you use skinless chicken breasts, chicken thighs, or shredded rotisserie chicken, you get tender chicken every time.
Add vegetables like broccoli or peas and you’ve got chicken and vegetables in one easy chicken dish that tastes like it came from simply recipes with years of testing behind them.
Which type of rice works best in chicken and rice recipes?
Choosing the right grain matters more than you might think. Long grain white rice is a classic—it stays fluffy while soaking up the flavors of chicken broth. Jasmine rice brings fragrance and a slightly sticky texture that feels cozy.
Basmati rice works beautifully if you want something light and aromatic. For a more wholesome spin, brown rice is a hearty choice, though it takes longer to cook.
If you’re in a rush, instant rice or instant white rice can be a lifesaver, especially for 15-minute chicken meals. Rinsed rice is important, too, it removes extra starch and keeps your rice from turning gummy.
The key is remembering that no matter what rice you choose, the rice is cooked alongside the chicken, soaking up every bit of broth and seasoning. That’s why these dishes taste so complete.
Should I use chicken breast, chicken thighs, or rotisserie chicken?
It depends on the mood of your rice dinner. Chicken breast is lean, cooks quickly, and keeps things light. Chicken thighs, especially boneless skinless chicken, add more richness and stay juicy even after simmering.
For maximum ease, shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken is unbeatable, you skip the raw cooking step entirely and just add the chicken to your seasoned rice as it warms.
Skinless chicken or skinless chicken breasts are ideal for a lighter take, while bone-in chicken thighs can turn a simple one-pot chicken and rice into something rustic and deeply flavored.
And don’t forget, even chicken and sausage can find its way into these dishes when you want a smoky twist.
How do you make creamy chicken and rice without fuss?
Creamy chicken and rice feels indulgent without being complicated. The trick is adding cream of chicken soup, a splash of cream, or even just cream cheese to the skillet or Dutch oven at the end of cooking.
It melts into the chicken broth and seasoned rice, creating a creamy chicken and rice bowl that feels like a hug.
If you’re craving something extra cozy, try a creamy chicken and rice casserole made in a single pot.
Add shredded chicken, instant rice, and cream of chicken soup, then bake or simmer until everything blends into one creamy, comforting meal.
It’s the kind of easy chicken and rice recipe that works for both lunch or dinner without much planning.
Can chicken and rice help you use up leftovers?
Absolutely. Leftover rice can be transformed into chicken fried rice in under ten minutes.
Toss leftover rice into a skillet with shredded chicken, peas, a beaten egg, and soy sauce for a fried rice recipe that feels restaurant-worthy.
Leftover chicken also works beautifully in creamy chicken and rice dishes, soups, or even stuffed into wraps for an easy weeknight meal.
Keeping an airtight container of cooked rice in the fridge is one of my favorite tricks—it means a quick rice and stir dinner is never far away.
With leftover rice and shredded chicken, you’re minutes away from a delicious dish that rescues weeknight meal planning.
What vegetables pair best with chicken and rice?
Chicken and broccoli is the obvious winner, a classic pairing that works in creamy casseroles or lighter one-pot chicken and rice bowls.
Broccoli’s earthy crunch balances creamy textures, while peas add sweetness and color. Other vegetables like carrots, peppers, or spinach can turn your easy chicken and rice into a colorful, nutrient-packed meal.
Adding vegetables doesn’t just make the dish healthier; it makes the cooking process easier. Toss them into the pot chicken style, let the steam work its magic, and they’ll blend seamlessly with the seasoned rice.
Think of it as building a full dinner recipe in one pot, where chicken and vegetables share the spotlight.
What’s the secret to perfectly seasoned one-pot chicken and rice?
It starts with chicken stock or chicken broth, both bring depth that water alone can’t offer.
From there, season with salt and pepper, garlic, onion, or paprika depending on your taste. The rice and chicken soak up every flavor, so don’t be shy about seasoning.
Medium-high heat at the beginning helps sear the chicken so you lock in flavor. Then lower the heat, let the broth simmer, and resist the urge to stir too often.
Once the rice is tender and chicken is cooked, you know you’ve reached that perfect balance where every bite is seasoned rice with tender chicken.
Can you make a healthier one-pot chicken and rice dish?
Yes—and it doesn’t mean giving up comfort. Swap white rice for brown rice or fluffy jasmine rice, add lots of chicken and vegetables, and keep the fat modest.
Using boneless skinless chicken makes the meal leaner, and opting for chicken broth instead of cream keeps it light while still flavorful.
Healthy doesn’t have to mean boring. Just simply add broccoli, peas, and a squeeze of lemon can feel fresh, filling, and nourishing. It’s an easy chicken recipe that works for weeknight dinner without weighing you down.
What about fun twists like “marry me chicken” or quick 15-minute chicken?
Marry me chicken, made with sun-dried tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan, pairs beautifully with rice.
Transform it into a one-pot chicken and rice by simmering chicken thighs with jasmine rice and that creamy, tangy sauce. It’s indulgent, romantic, and perfect for a special rice dinner.
For busy nights, 15-minute chicken recipes are your friend. Using instant rice, shredded rotisserie chicken, and a skillet, you can whip up chicken fried rice or creamy chicken rice in no time.
It’s the ultimate easy weeknight solution, letting you enjoy a comforting meal without hovering over the stove.
What side dishes go well with chicken and rice?
The beauty of chicken and rice is that it often doesn’t need much else, it’s already a complete dinner recipe.
But if you want to elevate it, side dishes like roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or garlic bread add variety. For something cozy, serve with soup or a small bowl of fruit salad for balance.
When the main dish is hearty and filling, light side dishes keep the table interesting without overwhelming. Think of them as little flourishes around a main event that’s already a delicious dish.
This website contains affiliate links. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases (What’s This?).
