Easy Chicken and Rice Recipes for Dinner with Few Ingredients
Planning a weeknight dinner shouldn't feel like a marathon. Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. This post is dedicated to helping you whip up delicious and healthy chicken and rice dinners with minimal ingredients and effort. We'll focus on quick cooking times and maximum flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
This recipe requires minimal cleanup and delivers big on flavor. The lemon and herbs add a bright, fresh taste that complements the chicken and rice beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tbsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté the chicken: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Combine ingredients: Add the rice, chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Bake: Cover the skillet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Fluff and serve: Remove from oven, fluff with a fork, and serve immediately.
Simple Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
This recipe is a comforting classic, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. The garlic and parmesan cheese create a rich and savory flavor that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: In a large pot, combine the chicken, rice, chicken broth, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Stir in parmesan: Stir in the parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Rice
- Use good quality chicken broth: This will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked to the proper temperature.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Add vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli.
These simple chicken and rice recipes are perfect for busy weeknights. They're quick, easy, and delicious – everything you need for a satisfying and stress-free dinner. Enjoy!
