Craving delicious chicken rice but short on time? This guide provides several quick chicken rice recipes perfect for busy weeknights. We'll cover everything from simple one-pan wonders to variations using readily available ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these recipes are designed to be easy to follow and deliver satisfying results.
What are the easiest chicken rice recipes?
The easiest chicken rice recipes often involve minimal ingredients and one-pot cooking. Think sheet pan dinners or stovetop methods that require minimal cleanup. Many recipes leverage pre-cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver!) to further reduce prep time. We'll explore several examples below.
Can I make chicken rice in a rice cooker?
Yes! A rice cooker is a fantastic tool for making chicken rice. The consistent heat and steam create perfectly cooked rice every time. You can add chicken broth, seasonings, and diced chicken directly to the cooker along with the rice. Simply follow your rice cooker's instructions, adding the chicken and seasonings towards the end of the cooking cycle to prevent overcooking.
How long does it take to make chicken rice?
The cooking time for chicken rice varies significantly depending on the recipe and cooking method. Quick recipes using pre-cooked chicken and a one-pot approach can be ready in under 30 minutes. More involved methods might take an hour or longer. The recipes below will specify approximate cooking times.
Quick 30-Minute One-Pan Chicken Rice
This recipe uses pre-cooked chicken to minimize prep time and cleanup.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, combine rice, chicken broth, chicken, peas, carrots, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer on the stovetop.
- Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork and serve.
Speedy Stovetop Chicken Rice with Garlic and Ginger
This recipe delivers a flavorful dish with a touch of Asian flair.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced cooked chicken
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in chicken broth and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in cooked chicken and season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with green onions and serve.
How to make chicken rice taste better?
Experiment with different seasonings and additions! Consider adding:
- Fresh herbs: Cilantro, parsley, or chives add freshness.
- Vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli add texture and nutrition.
- Spices: Turmeric, curry powder, or paprika add depth of flavor.
- Citrus: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice brightens the dish.
These quick chicken rice recipes offer delicious and convenient meal options for any night of the week. Remember to adjust seasonings to your liking and experiment with different ingredients to create your own perfect version. Enjoy!
