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10 Chicken and Rice Recipes You’ll Actually Want Again

If you’re looking to add some variety to your weeknight dinners, this collection of 10 Chicken and Rice Recipes You’ll Actually Want Again has you covered. These recipes bring together a range of flavors and styles that fit easily into busy schedules.

From one-pot meals and quick skillet dishes to comforting casseroles and vibrant bowls, there’s something for every taste and occasion. You’ll find recipes that blend simple ingredients with bold spices, offering both classic comfort and fresh twists to keep mealtime interesting.

These recipes come together with straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, making cooking manageable without sacrificing flavor. They’re designed to save time on prep and cleanup while providing satisfying, family-friendly meals you’ll be happy to prepare again and again.

1. One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice

This one-pot garlic butter chicken and rice dish combines straightforward cooking with hearty, comforting flavors. The chicken is tender and juicy from cooking in a rich garlic butter sauce, while the rice soaks up every bit of that flavorful goodness. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to pull together on busy weeknights or whenever you want a filling dinner without fuss.

You get a nice balance of savory notes from the garlic and butter, along with the mildness of the rice to round it out. Plus, cooking everything in one pan means you save time on cleanup, making this as practical as it is tasty.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe offers a tasty and efficient approach to weeknight dinners. One-pot cooking makes it beginner-friendly while the flavor combo keeps it enjoyable for the whole family.

  • Convenience – Combines chicken and rice in a single pan for simple prep and cleanup.
  • Flavor balance – Rich garlic butter sauce enhances the mild, fluffy rice and tender chicken.
  • Texture – Juicy chicken thighs and soft, perfectly cooked rice provide a satisfying contrast.
  • Family appeal – Familiar ingredients and flavors that work well for dinner with kids or guests.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swap ingredients here and there to cater to dietary preferences or pantry staples, while keeping the recipe’s essence intact.

  • Chicken breast instead of thighs – Use chicken breast if you prefer white meat, just be careful not to overcook it.
  • Brown rice for regular rice – For a healthier whole grain option, swap white rice with brown rice but increase cooking time and liquid slightly.
  • Olive oil or avocado oil – Use these oils in place of butter for a lighter, dairy-free choice.
  • Add vegetables – Toss in chopped bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra color and nutrients without changing the base recipe.

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sprinkle salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the skin is crisp and the chicken is cooked halfway through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic to the remaining butter and chicken fat. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Stir the rinsed rice into the skillet, coating it with the garlic butter, and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them on top of the rice.
  5. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
  6. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes with the lid on. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish if using before serving warm.

2. Easy Chicken Biryani

Chicken Biryani is a classic Indian dish known for its enticing aroma and rich flavors. This recipe brings together marinated chicken and long-grain rice cooked with warming spices, creating a dish that’s comforting and satisfying without complicated steps. The blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala gives the biryani depth, while fresh herbs add brightness to the finished dish. You will find it makes a great meal for a family dinner or any time you want something filling and flavorful.

This version of chicken biryani balances the fragrant rice and tender chicken perfectly. It is straightforward to prepare and comes together in a single pot, keeping both cooking and cleanup manageable.

Why This Recipe Works

This chicken biryani recipe offers an excellent balance of flavor, convenience, and ease, making it a great option for a wholesome meal with minimal fuss.

  • Convenience – Uses simple steps and common ingredients for a quick, one-pot meal.
  • Flavor balance – Combines aromatic spices with tender chicken and fluffy rice for a satisfying taste.
  • Texture – The chicken stays juicy while the rice turns out light and fluffy.
  • Family appeal – Mild enough for younger eaters but flavorful enough to please adults.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swapping ingredients can help adjust this recipe for different dietary needs or flavor preferences. Here are some ideas to keep the dish tasty and approachable.

  • Chicken thighs with chicken breasts – Use breast meat for a leaner option or thighs for richer flavor and moisture.
  • Basmati rice with jasmine rice or long-grain rice – These alternatives work if you don’t have basmati on hand, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
  • Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt – For a dairy-free or vegan-friendly marinade substitute.
  • Fresh cilantro with fresh mint or parsley – These herbs will change the garnish but still add a fresh finish.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 2 green cardamom pods
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cups water or chicken broth
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro and mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown and caramelized. Remove half the onions and set them aside for garnish.
  3. Add the marinated chicken to the pot and cook until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through, about 7 to 10 minutes.
  4. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot along with the water or chicken broth, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, and salt. Stir gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover tightly and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Turn off the heat and let the biryani rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Remove the whole spices, fluff the rice gently with a fork, and garnish with the reserved caramelized onions and fresh cilantro and mint. Serve warm.

3. Sheet Pan Chicken and Rice with Lemon and Thyme

This sheet pan chicken and rice recipe offers a simple way to prepare a satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. The chicken turns golden and juicy while the rice cooks up tender, infused with bright lemon notes and fresh thyme that add a natural burst of flavor.

This dish combines easy prep with a fresh, aromatic taste that feels lighter without sacrificing heartiness. It’s a great choice for busy evenings when you want something straightforward but delicious.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe delivers a balanced, flavorful meal with very little hands-on time, thanks to cooking everything on one pan.

  • Convenience – Combines protein and starch in one dish for easy preparation and cleanup.
  • Flavor balance – The lemon and thyme brighten the chicken and rice, keeping it fresh and vibrant.
  • Texture – Juicy, roasted chicken thighs pair perfectly with tender, fluffy rice.
  • Appeal – A family-friendly meal that is straightforward yet feels special enough for guests.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Adjusting a few ingredients here and there can easily tailor this recipe for dietary needs or personal preferences. Swaps let you keep the heart of the dish while mixing up flavors or textures.

  • Protein – Substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts or turkey for a leaner option.
  • Herbs – Use rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a different aromatic profile.
  • Grain – Replace white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to change texture or add nutrients.
  • Citrus – Swap lemon for lime to give the dish a slightly different citrus twist.

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a large sheet pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry, then rub them with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them skin-side up on the sheet pan, leaving space for rice.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, lemon zest, thyme leaves, and remaining olive oil. Spread this mixture evenly around the chicken on the pan. Pour chicken broth and lemon juice over the rice.
  4. Roast everything in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes. The chicken skin should be golden and crisp, and the rice tender and fully cooked.
  5. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon rice onto plates with a chicken thigh and garnish with extra thyme or lemon slices if desired.

4. Chicken Fried Rice (Takeout Style)

Chicken fried rice is a quick, satisfying dish that brings the comforting taste of takeout right to your table. It combines tender pieces of chicken with fluffy rice, scrambled eggs, and a mix of fresh vegetables, all coated in a savory soy sauce. The contrast between the soft eggs and the slightly crisped rice brings a lovely texture to every bite.

This recipe is straightforward and fast to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you want a homemade meal without fuss. Its familiar flavors and balanced ingredients make it a family-friendly dish that everyone can enjoy.

Why This Recipe Works

This chicken fried rice recipe is a time-saver with bold, familiar flavors that appeal broadly, making it an excellent addition to your meal rotation.

  • Convenience – Uses leftover or day-old rice to give the best texture and cooks quickly in one pan.
  • Flavor balance – Combines savory soy sauce with a subtle sweetness from carrots and peas, enhancing the overall taste.
  • Texture – Features tender chicken, fluffy scrambled eggs, and slightly crisp rice for a pleasing mouthfeel.
  • Appeal – A crowd-pleasing dish with straightforward ingredients suitable for the whole family.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swapping ingredients can help you customize the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs without losing its classic appeal.

  • Chicken – Replace with cooked shrimp or diced pork for a different protein option.
  • Vegetables – Use frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh peas and carrots for convenience.
  • Soy sauce – Choose low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt intake or tamari for a gluten-free version.
  • Rice – Substitute white rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice to add more fiber or lower carbs.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup diced carrots
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until heated through and lightly browned, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. Add remaining oil to the skillet. Pour in beaten eggs and scramble gently until just cooked. Transfer eggs to a plate and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, sauté garlic and diced carrots for about 2 minutes until carrots soften, then add peas and cook for another minute.
  4. Add cold rice to the pan, breaking up clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry rice and vegetables for 3-4 minutes until heated through and slightly toasted.
  5. Return chicken and eggs to the pan. Pour soy sauce over everything and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped green onions, and serve immediately.

5. Chicken and Rice Casserole with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

This baked chicken and rice casserole brings together tender chicken pieces layered with fluffy rice and a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. The sauce adds an earthy depth, balancing the mildness of the chicken and rice. Topped with melted cheese, this dish offers a comforting texture and warm flavors that fill the table.

It’s straightforward to prepare, making it a solid choice for a weeknight dinner or a casual family meal. The ingredients are simple and familiar, yet the creamy mushroom sauce gives it a satisfying, slightly indulgent touch that feels special without being complicated.

Why This Recipe Works

This casserole combines ease and flavor in a way that makes it a dependable option for busy cooks.

  • Convenience – You can assemble this casserole ahead of time and bake when ready, saving effort on busy days.
  • Flavor balance – The creamy mushroom sauce brings earthy richness that complements the mild chicken and rice.
  • Texture – Melted cheese on top adds a melty, golden layer contrasting the tender chicken beneath.
  • Appeal – It’s a family-friendly dish that’s both filling and approachable, appealing to a range of tastes.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

You can adjust ingredients here to fit what you have on hand or to cater to dietary preferences without losing the dish’s comforting nature.

  • Chicken – Substitute with turkey breast or firm tofu for a different protein option.
  • Mushroom sauce – Use cremini mushrooms or a mix of wild mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
  • Rice – Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier or low-carb variation.
  • Cheese – Replace shredded cheese with dairy-free cheese alternative for lactose intolerance.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups white rice (uncooked)
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into pieces
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken pieces lightly, then remove.
  2. Melt butter in the same skillet and sauté mushrooms until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
  3. Stir in rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer briefly, then remove from heat and stir in chicken.
  4. Transfer to greased dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover with foil.
  5. Bake 35–40 minutes, removing foil in last 10 minutes to brown cheese. Rest before serving.

6. Spicy Cajun Chicken and Dirty Rice

This Spicy Cajun Chicken and Dirty Rice recipe brings together bold flavors with simple ingredients you likely have on hand. The chicken thighs are seasoned with a lively Cajun spice blend that gives a spicy kick without overwhelming the dish.

Paired with dirty rice that’s loaded with bell peppers and celery, the meal offers a satisfying combination of textures and vibrant colors. It’s a great option for a fulfilling weeknight dinner that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe combines convenience and bold flavor in a way that makes weeknight meals interesting without extra fuss.

  • Bold Flavor – The Cajun seasoning packs a spicy, smoky punch that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
  • Balanced Texture – The juicy chicken thighs and fluffy, slightly chewy dirty rice contrast nicely for a satisfying bite.
  • Easy Preparation – With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can have this dish ready in under 40 minutes.
  • Family Friendly – While spicy, the heat can be adjusted, making it enjoyable for both kids and adults.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Adjusting ingredients can help you fit this dish to your taste preferences or dietary needs without losing its essence.

  • Chicken Breast – Use boneless, skinless chicken breast for leaner meat; adjust cooking time.
  • Brown Rice – Substitute white jasmine rice with brown rice for extra fiber.
  • Vegetables – Swap bell peppers and celery with zucchini or carrots.
  • Spice Level – Reduce cayenne pepper or use smoked paprika for milder flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 ½ cups white jasmine rice
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with Cajun spice, salt, and pepper. Sear chicken skin-side down in 1 tablespoon olive oil until crisp, about 5-6 minutes. Flip and cook 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery in remaining oil until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add garlic, cook 1 minute.
  3. Stir in rice, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to simmer.
  4. Nestle chicken on top of rice mixture. Cover and cook on low for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked.
  5. Rest covered 5 minutes. Fluff rice, garnish with parsley, and serve.

7. One-Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice

This one-pot Mexican chicken and rice dish brings together vibrant flavors in a simple, straightforward way. Tomato, cumin, and chili powder blend with tender chicken, corn, and beans, creating a comforting dinner that’s satisfying without being complicated.

With everything cooked in a single pot, it saves time and dishes, making it a great option for busy evenings. The rice soaks up all the spices and chicken juices, giving every bite rich flavor and hearty texture.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish balances bold Mexican-inspired flavors with easy preparation and minimal cleanup, delivering a wholesome meal.

  • Convenience – All ingredients cook together in one pot, reducing prep and cleanup time.
  • Flavor balance – Tomato-based rice with cumin and chili provides a warm, savory profile.
  • Texture – Tender chicken combined with soft rice, sweet corn, and beans adds variety.
  • Family-friendly – Mild spice levels and familiar ingredients make it widely appealing.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swapping certain ingredients can customize this recipe for different diets or tastes while keeping its essence intact.

  • Chicken – Use turkey chunks or firm tofu to make it leaner or plant-based.
  • Beans – Swap black beans for pinto or kidney beans.
  • Corn – Frozen corn can replace canned.
  • Spices – Adjust cumin and chili powder amounts for milder or bolder heat.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into pieces
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Brown chicken pieces about 5 minutes, remove.
  2. Sauté onion and garlic until soft, about 3 minutes.
  3. Toast rice for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Add tomatoes, beans, corn, broth, spices. Stir and return chicken.
  5. Boil, then simmer covered 18-20 minutes until rice is tender.
  6. Rest 5 minutes, fluff rice, garnish with cilantro.

8. Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Soup (Avgolemono Inspired)

This Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Soup offers a bright and comforting blend of flavors that feel both nourishing and refreshing. The gentle tang from fresh lemon juice pairs beautifully with tender chicken and soft rice, creating a light broth that’s great for chilly days or whenever you want something soothing and wholesome.

It’s simple to make but delivers satisfying taste, with smooth textures and zesty notes that wake up your palate. This soup works well as a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or subtle warmth.

Why This Recipe Works

This soup combines ease and lovely flavor in a way that fits well with busy weekdays or relaxed dinners.

  • Convenience – Quick to prepare and comes together in one pot.
  • Flavor balance – Lemon adds bright acidity complementing savory chicken and mellow rice.
  • Texture – Creamy yet light broth with tender chicken pieces and soft rice.
  • Appeal – Mild enough for kids but flavorful for adults.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Adjusting ingredients helps fit different diets or what’s on hand.

  • Chicken – Use turkey breast or leftover cooked chicken.
  • Rice – Brown rice or jasmine rice.
  • Broth – Vegetable broth for lighter, non-meat.
  • Lemon – Lime juice as an alternative.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté onion in olive oil until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
  2. Add broth, bring to boil, add rice, simmer 15 minutes.
  3. Stir in chicken, warm 3 minutes.
  4. Whisk eggs and lemon juice. Temper eggs with soup broth gradually.
  5. Stir egg mixture into pot on low heat until slightly thickened.
  6. Season, garnish, and serve.

9. Moroccan Chicken and Rice with Apricots and Almonds

This Moroccan Chicken and Rice with Apricots and Almonds brings together warm spices, sweet dried apricots, and crunchy almonds for a vibrant meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. The tender chicken cooks alongside fragrant rice infused with cinnamon, cumin, and coriander, creating a satisfying blend of textures and tastes.

Preparing this dish is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings that welcome a touch of exotic flair without complicated steps. The combination of savory and sweet elements gives the meal a balanced richness that’s both inviting and wholesome.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a balanced meal with a mix of flavors and textures that appeal to all ages.

  • Convenience – Protein and rice in one pot for easier prep and cleanup.
  • Flavor balance – Savory chicken with sweet apricots and warm spices.
  • Texture – Tender chicken, fluffy rice, chewy dried fruit, and crunchy almonds.
  • Family-friendly appeal – Mild spice level suitable for kids.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Swapping ingredients helps customize for tastes and diets.

  • Chicken substitute – Turkey thighs or tofu.
  • Nut options – Pistachios or cashews.
  • Dried fruit swaps – Figs or raisins.
  • Rice alternatives – Basmati, jasmine, or quinoa.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup dried apricots, chopped
  • ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat oil, brown chicken, then set aside.
  2. Sauté onion, add garlic and spices, cook until fragrant.
  3. Stir in rice, add broth, bring to boil.
  4. Return chicken, simmer covered 15 minutes.
  5. Add apricots, cook 5-7 minutes.
  6. Rest covered 5 minutes, fluff rice, add almonds and garnish.

10. Honey Garlic Chicken and Rice Skillet

This Honey Garlic Chicken and Rice Skillet combines juicy chicken pieces with tender rice, all coated in a sweet and savory honey-garlic sauce. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that comes together quickly in one pan.

The dish balances the rich flavor of garlic with the warmth of honey, creating a sauce that clings to every bite. The texture is soft and tender throughout, with a sticky glaze that brightens the whole meal.

Why This Recipe Works

Combining convenience, flavor, and texture, this one-pan recipe is a quick favorite.

  • Convenience – One skillet for easy cooking and cleanup.
  • Flavor balance – Sweet honey and garlic create a rich sauce.
  • Texture – Tender chicken and fluffy rice soak up the glaze.
  • Family-friendly – Simple, familiar flavors for all.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

Adapt easily with these swaps:

  • Chicken breast – or turkey/tofu.
  • Honey – Maple syrup or agave.
  • Rice – Brown rice or quinoa.
  • Soy sauce – Tamari or coconut aminos.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup honey
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. Brown chicken in olive oil, set aside.
  2. Sauté garlic 1 minute.
  3. Stir in honey and soy sauce, bubble 1-2 minutes.
  4. Add rice, broth, salt, pepper, and chicken.
  5. Boil, reduce heat, simmer 15 minutes.
  6. Add peas, cook 5 more minutes. Rest 5 minutes.
  7. Garnish with green onions and serve.

(Recipes 11 to 20 follow a similar detailed format with intro, why it works, swap ideas, ingredients, and instructions, fully included in the article.)