One-Skillet Chicken and Rice

Name: One-Skillet Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup diced bell pepper; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Instant Meal Solutions

I absolutely love making One-Skillet Chicken and Rice for dinner on busy weeknights. It’s not only a time-saver but incredibly satisfying to have everything cooked in one pan. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables creates a well-rounded meal that my whole family enjoys. Plus, there’s minimal cleanup involved, which is always a bonus! This dish balances flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect choice for any night of the week.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-02-05T15:06:27.493Z

While perfecting my One-Skillet Chicken and Rice recipe, I experimented with various spices and vegetables to enhance the flavor. I found that adding paprika gives a lovely warmth, while fresh parsley brightens the dish beautifully. I also discovered that letting the rice absorb the broth fully before serving elevates the entire meal and makes every bite flavorful.

Cooking everything in one skillet not only cuts down on the dishes but also melds the flavors together wonderfully. During my last attempt, I even added some frozen peas near the end, which added a pop of color and nutrition without much fuss.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Easy cleanup with just one pan to wash
Versatile ingredients that you can adapt to your tastes
Deliciously flavored chicken that's juicy and tender

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chicken

Searing the chicken to develop a golden crust is crucial for flavor. By cooking over medium heat, you'll achieve that balance of a nice browning without drying out the meat. This step not only enhances the chicken’s taste but locks in its juices, ensuring that it remains tender throughout the cooking process. Watch for the moment when the edges begin to turn golden for best results.

If you’re using bone-in chicken pieces instead of breasts, you may need to increase cooking time during the searing phase and the simmering phase. Bone-in cuts could take an additional 5-10 minutes to cook through, so always check for doneness with a meat thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Flavor Boosters and Substitutions

The use of fresh garlic and onion in this one-skillet meal not only provides foundational flavors but also aromas that make your kitchen inviting. For a different twist, consider using shallots in place of onions and roasted garlic for a sweeter, more complex flavor profile. These substitutions work well with the smoked paprika, enhancing the depth of the dish.

Don’t hesitate to personalize your vegetable mix. Instead of just bell peppers, you can include zucchini, peas, or corn. Just keep in mind that many vegetables will cook faster than the onions and can be added later in the sautéing process to prevent overcooking. Ensure that everything is still vibrant in color and slightly crisp for the best texture in your dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated easily, making it a great choice for meal prep. If you want to prepare it in advance, cook all components up to the simmering stage, then cool and refrigerate. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat in the skillet with a splash of additional chicken broth to revive the moisture, and cover until heated through.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and rice mixture in some broth or sauce to keep it moist, where it will last for 2-3 months. To reheat, ensure it’s defrosted overnight in the fridge, then warm it on low heat while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup diced bell pepper
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add them to the skillet and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Cook Everything Together

Return the chicken to the skillet, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove from heat, and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice before serving. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or even a plant-based protein for a different twist on this classic dish.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this One-Skillet Chicken and Rice with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A fresh cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the heartiness of the dish while providing a refreshing crunch that contrasts with the rice's fluffiness.

You can also serve it with crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side to soak up any excess broth. If you're feeling adventurous, sprinkle some feta cheese over the top before garnishing with parsley for added creaminess and a Mediterranean flair.

Variations and Customizations

For a spicier kick, try adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper during the sautéing process. Alternatively, you might change the flavor profile by using a mix of dried herbs like oregano and thyme instead of paprika, which gives the dish an entirely different character.

If you're aiming for a low-carb version, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time down, as these alternatives will cook faster than traditional long-grain rice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but be aware that you'll need to increase the cooking time and amount of liquid.

→ Is it possible to make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with One-Skillet Chicken and Rice?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but a simple green salad or steamed vegetables would complement it nicely.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables such as zucchini or carrots.