If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for busy weeknights, this 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and fluffy rice all cooked in one skillet, making cleanup just as simple as cooking. The savory garlic and soy sauce elevate the dish, creating a comforting, homey meal that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but packed with goodness. Each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible. You’ll find the perfect balance between protein, veggies, and rice, all enhanced by just the right seasonings.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and tender bites throughout the dish.
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant and savory depth that wakes up the palate.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: The heart of the meal, it absorbs all the delicious broth and flavors perfectly.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist while infusing it with rich, comforting undertones.
- 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers and peas): Adds a pop of color and fresh texture to brighten every forkful.
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce: Brings a subtle umami kick and saltiness without overpowering.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Essential for browning the chicken and adding a smooth, fruity base flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that elevate and balance all the other ingredients.
How to Make 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook quickly and evenly, perfect for a speedy 30-minute recipe without sacrificing tenderness or taste.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, then season with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. Let them cook until they’re beautifully golden brown on the outside, about 5 minutes. This step locks in moisture and adds a wonderful caramelized flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Veggies
Once your chicken is golden, stir in the minced garlic and mixed veggies. Sauté everything together for around 2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the veggies start to soften. This builds fresh, vibrant flavors while keeping the veggies crisp-tender.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Broth
Next, pour in the rice, chicken broth, and soy sauce all at once. Give everything a good stir to make sure the rice is fully coated and evenly distributed throughout the pan. This mixture is where the magic happens—your rice will soak up all these delicious juices as it cooks.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the skillet to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover with a lid and let it cook for about 15 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the broth and become perfectly tender while the chicken finishes cooking through.
Step 6: Rest and Fluff
After simmering, turn off the heat and keep the pan covered for an extra 5 minutes. This resting step lets the steam finish cooking the rice and ensures every bit is fluffy and light. Before serving, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and mix all the flavors together.
How to Serve 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can take this dish to a whole new level. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and brightness. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also elevate the flavors with a zesty kick that complements the savory soy and garlic.
Side Dishes
This recipe stands wonderfully on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider light side salads, steamed broccoli, or crispy roasted carrots. These sides add texture and fresh greens to balance the warm, comforting rice and chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chicken and rice just as it is for a cozy, rustic feel, or get creative by placing it inside warm tortillas for a quick wrap. You can also spoon it over lettuce leaves for a low-carb option or top with a fried egg for a brunch twist that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it taste even better the next day. Use within 3 to 4 days for the best quality and safety.
Freezing
This 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice Recipe freezes very well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for convenience on busy days.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice from drying out, and stir occasionally until warmed through. This way, you get almost the same fresh-from-the-pan goodness all over again.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Brown rice is a healthier alternative, but it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. If you swap it in, adjust the broth amount and simmer time accordingly, or consider pre-cooking the brown rice before adding it to the skillet.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soy sauce and garlic still give plenty of flavor, making it just as satisfying.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Feel free to toss in spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or a pinch of chili flakes to add warmth and complexity. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil sprinkled on top right before serving add a wonderful fresh note.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great and tend to stay juicier. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces and cook until they’re no longer pink inside. The cooking time remains about the same.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?
Using a good quality non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast iron pan helps. Also, keep the heat low once you add the broth and rice, and avoid lifting the lid too often during simmering to trap steam evenly cooking the rice.
Final Thoughts
This 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward steps can come together to create something truly delicious and comforting. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll be impressed by how quickly it becomes a family favorite that everyone asks for again and again.
Print
30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Sodium
Description
A quick and easy one-pan chicken and rice dish featuring tender chicken pieces, mixed vegetables, and flavorful garlic simmered together in chicken broth and soy sauce for a comforting meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers and peas)
Rice and Liquids
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
Other
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn golden brown, approximately 5 minutes.
- Sauté Garlic and Veggies: Add minced garlic and the mixed vegetables (bell peppers and peas) to the skillet, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant and the veggies start to soften.
- Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in the long-grain white rice, low-sodium chicken broth, and low-sodium soy sauce. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving warm.
Notes
- Make sure to cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Using low-sodium broth and soy sauce helps control the salt level in the dish.
- You can swap mixed veggies with your favorites like carrots, corn, or broccoli for variety.
- If you prefer, brown the chicken more for extra flavor before adding the liquids.
- This recipe can be customized with spices like paprika or herbs such as thyme for additional taste.
