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Easy 20-Minute Skillet Chicken and Rice Recipe for Busy Weeknights

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A quick and easy skillet chicken and rice recipe perfect for busy weeknights, using simple ingredients and ready in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 oz / 340 g), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas or diced bell pepper (optional)
  • A handful of chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear (about 5 minutes).
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown but not fully cooked.
  3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for 2 minutes until the onion softens and garlic is fragrant.
  4. Stir in the rinsed rice, coating it with the oil and chicken juices. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme. Mix well.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid. Let cook undisturbed for 15 minutes.
  6. After 15 minutes, stir in the frozen peas or diced bell peppers if using. Cover again and cook for another 2-3 minutes until veggies are tender.
  7. Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve immediately.

Notes

If rice is still firm after 15 minutes, add a splash more broth and cook a few extra minutes with lid on. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper searing. Rinsing rice removes excess starch for fluffier texture. Adding veggies at the end keeps them crisp and colorful. Season gradually to avoid over-salting.

Nutrition

Keywords: skillet chicken, chicken and rice, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, one-pan meal, healthy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/easy-20-minute-skillet-chicken-and-rice-recipe-for-busy-weeknights/