Easy Chicken and Rice Recipe (Comfort Food Made Simple)

Table of Contents

Introduction

Chicken and rice is a classic comfort meal that always feels right. It’s warm, filling, and simple enough for busy days. These recipes focus on easy steps and familiar flavors that bring everyone to the table. Whether baked, simmered, or cooked in one pan, each version keeps things relaxed and satisfying.


1. One-Pan Baked Chicken and Rice

1. One-Pan Baked Chicken and Rice

This one-pan baked chicken and rice recipe brings ease and comfort together in the best way. Everything cooks in the same dish, allowing the rice to absorb flavor as the chicken turns tender. It’s ideal for weeknights when you want less cleanup. The result feels hearty and familiar. A true family favorite.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1½ cups long-grain rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Spread rice in a baking dish and pour in broth.
  3. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
  4. Place chicken on rice and drizzle with oil.
  5. Cover and bake for 40 minutes, then uncover and bake 10 more minutes.

How to Serve It

Garnish with chopped parsley.
Serve straight from the baking dish.
Add a side salad for freshness.
Works well for family-style meals.
Enjoy warm for best texture.


2. Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet

2. Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet

This creamy chicken and rice skillet feels comforting and smooth with every bite. The rice cooks gently in a rich sauce while the chicken stays tender. It’s cooked in one pan and comes together easily. Perfect for evenings when you want something soothing. A great option for cooler nights.

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 cup rice
  • 2½ cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup cooking cream
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ¾ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook chicken until lightly golden.
  3. Add rice and stir for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in broth and simmer for 18–20 minutes.
  5. Stir in cream and cook 3 more minutes.

How to Serve It

Top with black pepper.
Serve with steamed vegetables.
Add fresh herbs if desired.
Best served immediately.
Pair with simple greens.


3. Garlic Chicken and Rice

3. Garlic Chicken and Rice

This garlic chicken and rice recipe keeps ingredients minimal while delivering bold taste. Garlic infuses both the chicken and rice as they cook together. The dish feels familiar yet full of flavor. It’s easy to prepare and works well for busy schedules. Comfort food at its finest.

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1¼ cups rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ¾ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Brown chicken on both sides.
  3. Add garlic and stir briefly.
  4. Add rice and broth, then cover.
  5. Simmer for 20 minutes until rice is tender.

How to Serve It

Sprinkle with fresh herbs.
Serve with roasted vegetables.
Add lemon slices on the side.
Works well for lunch leftovers.
Enjoy while warm.


4. Lemon Chicken and Rice

4. Lemon Chicken and Rice

This lemon chicken and rice recipe feels light yet filling. The citrus adds freshness while keeping the dish balanced. It’s simple to cook and perfect for warmer days. The flavors stay clean and familiar. A great option when you want something gentle and comforting.

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1½ cups rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ¾ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Cook chicken until lightly golden.
  3. Add rice, broth, and lemon juice.
  4. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes.
  5. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve It

Garnish with lemon zest.
Serve with steamed greens.
Add herbs for extra freshness.
Great for spring meals.
Serve warm for best taste.


5. Simple Chicken Rice Bowl

5. Simple Chicken Rice Bowl

This simple chicken rice bowl keeps things straightforward and comforting. Cooked chicken rests over soft rice for an easy, filling meal. It’s flexible and works well for quick dinners. The flavors stay mild and familiar. Ideal for all ages.

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Warm cooked rice in a pan.
  2. Heat chicken with olive oil.
  3. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Serve chicken over rice.
  5. Enjoy immediately.

How to Serve It

Add a light sauce if desired.
Serve with fresh vegetables.
Top with herbs or green onions.
Great for quick dinners.
Serve warm for comfort.


Conclusion

These easy chicken and rice recipes bring comfort without complicated steps. Each option is simple, filling, and perfect for everyday cooking. Save this list for busy days, try different versions throughout the week, and share it with anyone who enjoys classic home-style meals.

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Emma Carter

Hi! I’m Emma Carter, the home cook, recipe tester, and flavor-loving food enthusiast behind MealGirls.

Growing up in a family that bonded over food, I learned early on that the best memories are made around the kitchen table. After years of experimenting with easy meals, comfort food, holiday recipes, and fun treats, I created MealGirls to share the dishes that bring joy, warmth, and connection.

MealGirls is a place where cooking feels approachable, fun, and full of flavor.

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