12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners

Catharine T. Jones

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners

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Are you looking for simple yet delicious meals that the whole family will love? Well, you’re in the right place! This post is all about chicken recipes with rice, a classic combination that never disappoints. After realizing how often I found myself rummaging through the pantry for quick meal ideas, I decided to compile a list of easy chicken and rice recipes. These dishes are perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

If you’re a busy parent or just someone who appreciates family-friendly recipes, you’ll find something here that fits your needs. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or just wanting to keep dinner stress-free, these one-pot chicken and rice options have you covered. They’re not only simple but also packed with flavor, making them ideal for everyone around the table.

You’ll discover a variety of recipes that transform humble chicken and rice into mouthwatering meals. From a creamy chicken and rice casserole to a zesty one-pot lemon garlic chicken and rice, these dishes are designed to please. Not to mention, they come together in a snap, making them perfect for those quick weeknight meals when time is of the essence. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to wow your family with these 12 easy, one-pot chicken and rice recipes that will bring joy to your dinner table!

Key Takeaways

– Enjoy 12 different chicken and rice recipes that are perfect for quick weeknight meals.

– Each recipe focuses on ease, using simple ingredients that you likely already have at home.

– Discover variations, like a spicy chicken and rice stir-fry and a cheesy BBQ chicken casserole.

– These meals are designed to be family-friendly, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

– Learn tips for customizing recipes to suit your family’s tastes and dietary preferences.

1. Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners - 1. Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Life gets busy, and dinner often feels rushed.

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole keeps flavor high with little effort.
Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce mingle in one baking dish.
A few pantry tweaks let you switch up the flavor while staying quick and easy.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 lb diced chicken breast
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix cooked rice, diced chicken, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, cheese, peas, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
4. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is golden brown.
5. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs:
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate before baking.

Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Editor’s Choice

Recipe Ingredients Cost Cooking Time Variations
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole Chicken, rice, cheese $35.99 45 mins Add veggies
One-Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken Chicken thighs, rice, lemon $39.38 30 mins Use chicken breasts
Spicy Chicken and Rice Stir-Fry Chicken, rice, veggies $59.99 15 mins Add frozen veggies
Cheesy BBQ Chicken Casserole Rotisserie chicken, BBQ sauce $29.99 30 mins Use homemade BBQ
Mediterranean Chicken Bake Chicken, rice, olives $29.99 35 mins Use brown rice
Chicken and Rice Soup Chicken, broth, veggies $75.34 30 mins Freeze leftovers

2. One-Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners - 2. One-Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice

Busy evenings call for smart meals that clean up fast.

This One-Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice blends bright citrus with savory chicken in a simple, stock-friendly pot.
The lemon punch shines through without overpowering the dish, while garlic adds depth.
You cook everything in one pot, which means less washing and more time with your family.

Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken thighs
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 2 lemons
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then brown on both sides for about 5 minutes each.
3. Remove chicken and set aside. In the same pot, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. Stir in the rice, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil.
5. Add back the chicken, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.

FAQs:
Can I use other types of chicken? Absolutely. Chicken breasts work well too.

One-Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice

Editor’s Choice

3. Spicy Chicken and Rice Stir-Fry

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners - 3. Spicy Chicken and Rice Stir-Fry

Craving heat without complicated steps? This dish delivers a bold kick with ease.

The mix of colorful vegetables and a simple spicy sauce keeps things lively and quick.
It’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies while still getting a satisfying, seasoned finish.
Cleanup is a breeze since this dish cooks in a single skillet.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 3 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sriracha
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Toss in the vegetables and stir-fry for another 5 minutes.
4. Pour in soy sauce and sriracha, stirring well.
5. Add the cooked rice and mix until everything is combined, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.

FAQs:
Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen veggies work perfectly in this stir-fry.

Spicy Chicken and Rice Stir-Fry

Editor’s Choice

4. Cheesy BBQ Chicken and Rice Casserole

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners - 4. Cheesy BBQ Chicken and Rice Casserole

Flavor explodes in a cozy, kid-friendly casserole.

The sweet zing of BBQ sauce with melted cheese makes this a sure-fire crowd-pleaser.
It breathes new life into plain chicken and rice, turning weeknights into a small celebration.
It’s quick to pull together and great for leftovers as well.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 lb shredded rotisserie chicken
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– 1/2 cup corn
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, corn, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
4. Bake for 30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Let it cool slightly before serving.

FAQs:
Can I use homemade BBQ sauce? Yes, it adds extra depth.

Did you know that one-pot meals like cheesy BBQ chicken and rice can cut prep and cleanup by up to 20 minutes? That means weeknights feel like celebrations, not chores, when you reach for easy chicken recipes with rice.

Cheesy BBQ Chicken and Rice Casserole

Editor’s Choice

5. Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bake

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners - 5. Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bake

Take a flavor trip without leaving your kitchen.
This bake blends herbs, sun-kissed tomatoes, and briny olives for a bright, hearty dish.
It’s built for balance—protein, starch, and vegetables all in one pan.
Perfect for a family dinner or a small celebration around the table.

Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken thighs
– 1 cup rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup olives, sliced
– 1 tbsp seasoning mix (oregano, thyme)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a baking dish, combine chicken thighs, rice, chicken broth, tomatoes, olives, and seasoning.
3. Stir to mix everything well, then cover tightly with foil.
4. Bake for 35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
5. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes for a slightly crispy top.

FAQs:
Can I use brown rice? Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time.

Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bake

Editor’s Choice

6. One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Veggies

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners - 6. One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Veggies

A colorful, all-in-one skillet meal that keeps weeknights simple.

The mix of carrots, peas, and peppers brightens the plate and boosts nutrition.
Chicken and rice cook together so the flavors sink in, making every bite taste like a complete meal.
Clean up is quick, so you can spend more time with loved ones.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in rice and chicken broth, then bring to a boil.
4. Add mixed vegetables, reduce heat, and cover. Simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
5. Fluff with a fork and serve hot.

FAQs:
Can I use leftover chicken? Yes, this dish is great for leftovers.

One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Veggies

Editor’s Choice

7. Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Skillet

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners - 7. Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Skillet

A quick bite with a touch of Asia on your table.
The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze coats tender chicken and crisp veggies.
It’s tasty, kid friendly, and ready in under half an hour.
A simple sheet of greens on the side makes a complete meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup snap peas
– 1 tbsp sesame oil

Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add cubed chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in bell peppers and snap peas, cooking for another 5 minutes.
4. Pour in teriyaki sauce and mix, allowing everything to simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Serve over cooked rice.

FAQs:
Can I add other vegetables? Yes! Feel free to mix in your favorites.

Fun fact: weeknight dinners can be both fast and tasty. In under 30 minutes, this Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Skillet coats tender chicken with a glossy glaze and crisp veggies. It’s a kid-friendly win that proves chicken recipes with rice really can be weeknight magic.

Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Skillet

Editor’s Choice

8. Chicken and Rice Stuffed Peppers

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners - 8. Chicken and Rice Stuffed Peppers

Colorful peppers become a tasty vessel for a hearty mix.

Stuffed with chicken, rice, and spices, these peppers look festive and taste great.
They work well for meal prep or a family dinner that feels a bit special.
The filling stays moist and the peppers stay tender when baked right.

Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground chicken until cooked through.
4. Mix cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the chicken.
5. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers and place in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 30 minutes until peppers are tender.

Tips: Top with cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey finish!

FAQs:
Can I make these ahead? Yes. Prepare and store in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

Chicken and Rice Stuffed Peppers

Editor’s Choice

9. Chicken and Rice Soup

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners - 9. Chicken and Rice Soup

A warm bowl that slows the chill away.
This soup delivers comfort with gentle, familiar flavors.
Tender chicken pieces sink into a broth that carries soft rice and veggies.
It’s a reliable weeknight staple that travels well for lunch leftovers.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup rice
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– Bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a large pot, add chicken, chicken broth, carrots, celery, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
2. Lower the heat and simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 15 minutes.
3. Stir in rice and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

FAQs:
Can I freeze this soup? Yes, it freezes well for up to three months.

Chicken and Rice Soup

Editor’s Choice

10. One-Pot Chicken Fried Rice

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners - 10. One-Pot Chicken Fried Rice

Takeout flavor without leaving home.
This dish packs protein and veggies into a fast, satisfying meal.
Leftover rice and chicken shine here, saving you time.
It comes together in one pan for easy cleanup and quick weeknights.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– Green onions for garnish

Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Push chicken to the side and pour in beaten eggs, scrambling until fully cooked.
4. Stir in cooked rice and mixed vegetables, adding soy sauce.
5. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

FAQs:
Can I use leftover rice? Yes, day-old rice works best for fried rice.

One-Pot Chicken Fried Rice

Editor’s Choice

11. Rustic Chicken and Rice Bake

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners - 11. Rustic Chicken and Rice Bake

A cozy, hearty bake that feels like home.
It blends mushrooms, broccoli, and cheese for a creamy center.
Each bite brings warmth and simple satisfaction.
It’s perfect on cool nights when you want comfort with little fuss.

Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cubed
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, broccoli, mushrooms, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour everything into a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
4. Bake for 45 minutes or until chicken is cooked and the cheese is bubbly.
5. Cool slightly before serving.

Tips: Swap the broccoli and mushrooms for other veggies you like!

FAQs:
Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Rustic Chicken and Rice Bake

Editor’s Choice

12. BBQ Chicken and Rice Salad

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners - 12. BBQ Chicken and Rice Salad

Light, bright, and perfect for warm days.
This salad pairs shredded chicken with rice and fresh veggies in a tangy BBQ coat.
It works as a stand-alone meal or a hearty side for picnics.
It travels well and stays tasty in the fridge for a few days.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb shredded rotisserie chicken
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup corn
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked rice, cherry tomatoes, corn, and BBQ sauce.
2. Toss gently to mix the sauce evenly.
3. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips: Great for meal prep, store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

FAQs:
Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, if you use gluten-free BBQ sauce.

Fun fact: BBQ chicken and rice salad travels well and tastes brighter after a chill. In the world of chicken recipes with rice, this combo shines: toss shredded chicken, cooked rice, corn, and cherry tomatoes with a tangy BBQ coat, then pack for picnics or quick weeknight dinners.

BBQ Chicken and Rice Salad

Editor’s Choice

💡

Key Takeaways

Essential tips from this article

🍽️

QUICK WIN

One-Pot Wonder

Utilize one-pot recipes to save time on cleanup while preparing delicious chicken and rice meals for the family.

🍋

ESSENTIAL

Flavor Boosters

Incorporate herbs, spices, and citrus to elevate the flavors of your chicken and rice dishes effortlessly.

🌶️

PRO TIP

Spice It Up

Experiment with different spices and heat levels to personalize your chicken and rice stir-fry recipes to your taste.

🥕

BEGINNER

Add Veggies

Enhance nutrition and color by adding a variety of vegetables to your chicken and rice casseroles or bakes.

🥗

ADVANCED

Healthy Substitutions

Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa to create healthier versions of your favorite chicken and rice recipes.

📋

WARNING

Meal Prep Magic

Prepare large batches of chicken and rice meals ahead of time to simplify weeknight dinners and reduce cooking time.

Conclusion

12 Chicken and Rice Recipes for Easy Family Dinners - Conclusion

These 12 chicken and rice recipes not only simplify dinner prep but also promise to bring warmth and satisfaction to your family gatherings.

Whether it’s a classic casserole or a zesty stir-fry, each dish is designed to please every palate and satisfy hungry bellies. Dive into these easy chicken dinners and make your weeknight meals memorable!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes one-pot chicken and rice dinners ideal for easy family meals?

One-pot dinners minimize cleanup and save time, making them ideal for busy families. With one pot chicken and rice, you get a complete meal in one pot, which means less washing up and more family time.

These recipes lean on pantry staples and flexible flavors, so they fit into easy weeknight meals and are perfect for family-friendly recipes.

How can I customize these chicken recipes with rice to match my family’s tastes?

These chicken recipes with rice are highly adaptable. Start with the base and customize with your family’s favorites: swap vegetables such as carrots, peas, or broccoli; choose chicken thighs or breasts; or try different rice types like white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

Add a pinch of chili for heat or a splash of cream for richness. For dairy-free households, skip cheese and use a dairy-free broth. The result stays family-friendly recipes while remaining easy chicken dinners and one pot chicken and rice.

What pantry staples do I need to make quick weeknight meals with chicken and rice?

Stock up on a few versatile ingredients: chicken (breasts or thighs), long-grain rice, broth, onions, garlic, canned tomatoes or mushrooms, and a few spices like salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. With these staples, you can pull together one pot chicken and rice dinners for quick weeknight meals and adapt any chicken and rice casserole.

Are these recipes adaptable for dietary needs or picky eaters?

Absolutely. Swap ingredients to meet gluten-free or dairy-free needs: use gluten-free broth, skip cheese or use dairy-free options, and swap in cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. You can keep flavors mild for picky eaters or boost with kid-friendly favorites like mild paprika or a touch of honey. This keeps the meals family-friendly recipes and perfect for easy chicken dinners while supporting diverse diets.

How should I store and reheat leftovers from chicken and rice casseroles?

Cool leftovers completely, then store in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days (or freeze for up to 2-3 months). Reheat in the oven at 350°F until steaming hot, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. To keep moisture and texture, add a splash of broth or milk before reheating. For best results, reheat gently and finish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon.

Related Topics

chicken recipes

one pot meals

easy dinners

family-friendly

rice casseroles

quick weeknight

comfort food

meal prep

budget meals

30-minute recipes

dinner ideas

savory dishes

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