Chicken Rice Skillet: One-Pan Dinner Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that the whole family will love, then this Chicken Rice Skillet: One-Pan Dinner Recipe is just what you need! It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with warm aromas and brings everyone to the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies all cooked in one skillet. It’s simple, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying!

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to prepare. You can enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with flavor from aromatic spices that complement each ingredient beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan wonder: Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans! Everything cooks together in one skillet for easy cleanup.
• Family-friendly: With its appealing flavors and colorful ingredients, even picky eaters will want seconds!
• Quick cooking time: From prep to plate in just 50 minutes—perfect for those hectic evenings!
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or grains to suit your taste.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of tender chicken and seasoned rice is sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chicken Rice Skillet recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this delightful dish!

For the Chicken and Rice

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For Garnish

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges, for serving

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist!
• Add some greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Use brown rice: Swap white rice for brown rice if you prefer a nuttier flavor and extra fiber—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or mix in some diced jalapeños if your taste buds crave heat!

How to Make Chicken Rice Skillet: One-Pan Dinner Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting your chicken into 1-inch cubes and chopping the onion and bell peppers. Mince the garlic too! Having everything prepped makes cooking so much smoother.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential because browning adds depth of flavor to the dish. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until softened (3-5 minutes). Stirring frequently helps release their natural sweetness. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Toss in both bell peppers next; they’ll add color and crunch!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in diced tomatoes (with their juices), rice, chicken broth, oregano, basil, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring it all to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover tightly and let simmer for 15-20 minutes—don’t lift that lid! This helps steam the rice perfectly.

Step 5: Finish Up

After simmering, stir in your cooked chicken until well combined with all those wonderful flavors. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a bright touch and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an added zing!

And there you have it—a delightful Chicken Rice Skillet: One-Pan Dinner Recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Rice Skillet: One-Pan Dinner Recipe

Cooking is all about having fun and making delicious memories! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your chicken rice skillet turns out perfectly every time.

• Prep ingredients beforehand: Having everything chopped and ready to go can save you time and make the cooking process smoother. You’ll be able to focus on enjoying the cooking experience rather than rushing through it.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking chicken, give each piece enough space to brown properly. This will help achieve a nice sear and enhance the flavor of your dish.

• Use a good quality broth: A flavorful chicken broth makes a big difference in taste. Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the seasoning, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine.

• Let it rest before serving: After cooking, allow the skillet to sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures that the rice absorbs any remaining moisture.

• Customize with your favorite veggies: Feel free to add in seasonal or preferred vegetables like zucchini or peas. This not only adds nutrition but also brings variety and color to your dish!

How to Serve Chicken Rice Skillet: One-Pan Dinner Recipe

Serving your chicken rice skillet can be just as fun as preparing it! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish that everyone will love.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness that complements the spices beautifully.
• Lime wedges: Offer lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their servings, adding a zesty kick that brightens up the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and vibrant color, making it an excellent complement to your skillet meal.

• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken rice skillet.

• Cornbread: The slightly sweet flavor of cornbread pairs wonderfully with this savory dish, offering a comforting touch that rounds out the meal.

• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes offers a delightful balance against the savory notes of your chicken rice skillet.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Rice Skillet will not only be delicious but also beautifully presented, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Rice Skillet is perfect for meal prep! It not only saves time during busy weeknights but also makes delicious leftovers that taste just as good the next day.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days for the best flavor.

Freezing

• Let the Chicken Rice Skillet cool completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until warm.

FAQs

Have questions about this easy recipe? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use brown rice instead of white in the Chicken Rice Skillet: One-Pan Dinner Recipe?

Yes, you can use brown rice! Just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.

What vegetables can I add to the Chicken Rice Skillet: One-Pan Dinner Recipe?

Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables! Zucchini, corn, or spinach are great additions that will enhance both flavor and nutrition.

How can I make this Chicken Rice Skillet recipe spicier?

To add some heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or toss in some diced jalapeños when cooking the vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for considering this Chicken Rice Skillet: One-Pan Dinner Recipe! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings family together at the table. I hope you enjoy preparing and savoring every bite as much as I do. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!