Easy Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for something comforting, straightforward, and downright delicious, I’ve got just the thing — my Easy Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe is a game-changer. I absolutely love how this one-pan dish comes together with tender, golden chicken nestled on fluffy, flavorful rice — and the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to nail, even on a busy weeknight. Stick around, I’ll walk you through every step so you get it just right.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a part in creating that perfect harmony of flavors in this easy chicken and rice skillet recipe. I recommend fresh veggies and good-quality chicken for the best results — and rinsing the rice will help keep it fluffy, not mushy.

• Chicken (bone-in, skin-on): I love using thighs and drumsticks because they stay juicy and develop amazing flavor while browning.
• Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning is key to enhancing the natural taste of the chicken and veggies.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps with the browning process.
• Yellow onion: This gives sweetness and depth when sautéed slowly.
• Red bell pepper: Adds color and a mild sweetness; green works too if you prefer.
• Carrot: Provides a subtle earthiness and texture.
• Garlic: The more, the merrier for that fragrant kick.
• Ground coriander and cumin: These spices bring warmth and a subtle smokiness that takes the dish up a notch.
• Tomato paste: Gives a hint of tangy richness and helps boost color.
• Fresh mint: I always add chopped mint for a fresh note that brightens everything; plus, a sprinkle on top is stunning.
• Frozen peas: Tossed in for sweet pops of brightness and color.
• Long-grain white rice: Rinsing it helps it cook up nice and fluffy.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses the rice with savory goodness.
• Fresh lemon juice: A squeeze at the end adds lovely brightness—don’t skip it!

Variations

I love making this easy chicken and rice skillet recipe my own by switching up the veggies or protein. It’s so flexible — feel free to experiment and find your favorite twist!

• Vegetable Swap: I’ve swapped in zucchini or mushrooms for a seasonal change, and it works beautifully.
• Spice it Up: When friends come over, I add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a little heat — they love it!
• Protein Variation: Using skin-on chicken breasts works too if you prefer leaner meat, just keep an eye on cooking times.
• Make it Vegan: Try substituting with hearty vegetables and vegetable broth, and use chickpeas for protein.

How to Make Easy Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season Your Chicken

Start by patting your chicken dry with paper towels — removing moisture helps it brown beautifully. Then, season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy here; that seasoning really builds the foundation of flavor. This step is key because seasoning early means tastier chicken and more flavor in the pan juices you’ll use later.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and let it cook undisturbed for about 6 to 8 minutes—you want a gorgeous golden crust. Flip and brown the other side for another 6 to 8 minutes. If your pan gets too crowded, do this in batches to keep the chicken from steaming instead of browning. Once browned, transfer chicken to a plate and set aside — those browned bits in the pan? We’re going to use them.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Lower the heat to medium and add diced onion, red bell pepper, and carrot to the skillet, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to cook them until tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. If the pan looks dry, add a little bit more olive oil. This step is where the base flavor develops — those softened vegetables paired with the chicken drippings create a lovely depth.

Step 4: Add Aromatics and Spices

Now stir in the minced garlic along with ground coriander, ground cumin, tomato paste, and chopped fresh mint. Cook this mixture for another minute or two, which allows the spices to bloom and the tomato paste to deepen the flavor. Your kitchen will smell incredible right now — savor it!

Step 5: Toast the Rice and Add Peas

Add your rinsed long-grain rice and frozen peas into the skillet. Stir them all together with the veggie mixture, letting the rice toast lightly for about a minute — this helps keep the grains separate and adds a subtle nuttiness.

Step 6: Simmer with Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a high simmer, then carefully nestle the browned chicken pieces back into the skillet on top of the rice. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and reduce heat to low. Let the whole pan cook gently for around 25 minutes — the chicken finishes cooking perfectly while the rice soaks up all those delicious juices.

Step 7: Let it Rest and Serve

Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let it rest, covered, for another 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the rice firm up just enough without drying out. When you’re ready, garnish generously with fresh mint and a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving — it really brightens the whole dish.

How to Serve Easy Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

I always top mine with freshly chopped mint because it adds a bright, refreshing lift that contrasts beautifully with the warm spices. A generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving is non-negotiable in my book — it transforms the whole dish with just a little zing.

Side Dishes

For sides, I often go simple to let this skillet shine. A crisp green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon pairs perfectly, or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add a nice textural balance. If you’re craving something warm, sautéed greens like spinach or kale with garlic is a fantastic match.

Creative Ways to Present

Once I made this for a gathering and served it in individual mini cast iron skillets — everyone thought it was so special and rustic! You could also use colorful serving bowls and sprinkle additional fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt for creaminess. A wedge of lemon on the side not only looks inviting but also gives your guests the freedom to brighten their plates.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and it keeps really well for up to 3 days. The flavors actually mellow and deepen overnight, so it tastes great reheated. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing to keep everything fresh.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this recipe successfully a couple of times. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The rice might be slightly softer after freezing, but it still tastes delicious and comforting.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat is gently warming in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen things up. This revives the rice’s moisture and keeps the chicken tender without drying it out. Microwaving works too, but I prefer the skillet if I have time.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This easy chicken and rice skillet recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s reliable, comforting, and just downright tasty every time. It’s one of those dishes you can make with confidence, even when you’re short on time or cooking for a crowd. I promise, once you try it, you’ll reach for it again and again — it’s that good and easy. So go ahead, give it a try and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a hug on a plate.

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