When it comes to busy weeknights, having a reliable go-to recipe can be a lifesaver. One classic combination that never goes out of style is chicken and rice – and when you throw it in a crock pot, the possibilities are endless! In this article, we’re sharing 20 mouthwatering recipes that combine the comfort of chicken with the convenience of slow-cooked rice. From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy Cajun, and from teriyaki to buffalo, there’s something for every taste bud on this list.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
A rich and savory dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and cream with juicy chicken and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add rice and stir. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Combine cooked chicken, creamy sauce, and cooked rice in a baking dish. Top with additional Parmesan cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice
Add a spicy kick to your meal with this flavorful dish that combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with tender chicken and creamy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together chicken, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and hot sauce until well coated.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Fluff rice with a fork and mix with butter until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve chicken atop rice, garnished with chopped green onions and parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
This classic recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the savory flavors of herbs, all wrapped up in a comforting serving of chicken and rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
– 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in lemon juice and cooked rice. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowl
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this simple and delicious Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowl recipe. This classic dish is a staple of Japanese cuisine, featuring tender chicken glazed in a rich teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy white rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken in a pan with 2 tbsp of oil until browned and cooked through.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 2 tbsp of water.
3. Add the teriyaki sauce mixture to the cooked chicken and stir to coat.
4. Serve the glazed chicken over cooked white rice and top with mixed vegetables.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole
A flavorful and easy-to-make casserole that combines the best of Mexican cuisine with a comforting rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned. Add onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice and cream of chicken soup.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half the rice mixture followed by the chicken mixture, then top with remaining rice.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese and chopped cilantro (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken and Rice
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the warmth of curry with the creaminess of coconut, served over a bed of fluffy rice. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Serve over cooked rice. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice
Savor a comforting bowl of tender chicken, flavorful broccoli, and creamy rice, all in one satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken in butter until cooked through.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, combine cooked rice, milk, and shredded cheese. Stir over low heat until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked chicken and broccoli with the cheesy rice mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice
A sweet and tangy twist on classic chicken and rice, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp mustard (Dijon or whole-grain)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and mustard until smooth.
3. Place chicken pieces in a shallow baking dish and brush with the honey-mustard mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice
This classic Greek dish combines tender chicken, flavorful lemon sauce, and creamy rice for a delicious and satisfying meal. With its bright citrus notes and herby undertones, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add garlic, lemon juice, and oregano to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve with cooked rice and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet
This hearty skillet meal combines the flavors of tender chicken, savory rice, and tangy BBQ sauce for a satisfying dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably leftover)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, BBQ sauce, and chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pineapple Chicken and Rice
This sweet and savory dish combines the flavors of juicy chicken, tangy pineapple, and creamy rice for a delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add pineapple chunks, soy sauce, and honey to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve chicken and pineapple mixture over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Chicken and Rice
This hearty recipe combines juicy chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and fragrant thyme with flavorful rice for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in thyme and add cooked rice to the skillet, mixing well.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken and Rice Bake
A spicy twist on a classic comfort dish, this Buffalo chicken and rice bake combines the flavors of buffalo wings with creamy rice and melted cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot and butter)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, buffalo wing sauce, and shredded cheese.
4. Add the cooked chicken to the rice mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe combines tender chicken, savory garlic butter, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add the cooked rice and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Serve the chicken on top of the garlic butter rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice
This classic comfort dish combines juicy chicken, flavorful tomato sauce, and aromatic basil with fluffy white rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook chicken in a medium skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
2. In a large saucepan, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add cooked chicken to the tomato mixture and stir to combine.
4. Serve hot over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Rice
A flavorful and satisfying one-pot meal that combines the richness of pesto with the simplicity of chicken and rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the basil pesto and cooked rice. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
5. Add the chicken back into the pan and stir to combine with the pesto and rice mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon Ranch Chicken and Rice
A creamy and savory one-pot dish that combines crispy bacon, flavorful chicken, and fluffy rice, all tied together with a rich ranch seasoning. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ranch seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and chicken to the same skillet, cooking until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Add the cooked rice, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Stir in the cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken and Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this classic jerk chicken and rice dish. A perfect blend of spices, herbs, and aromatics will transport your taste buds to the Caribbean.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 tomato, diced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix jerk seasoning with 1 tbsp water.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the jerk mixture.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve chicken on top of rice, garnished with chopped bell pepper and tomato if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken and Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this creamy and aromatic dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Thai red curry paste
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Chopped peanuts and scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve chicken and sauce over cooked rice.
7. Garnish with chopped peanuts and scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Olive Chicken and Rice
A flavorful and aromatic one-pot dish that combines the Mediterranean’s best ingredients: juicy chicken, savory olives, and fragrant herbs, all served with a side of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add the garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the rice and water to the pan, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
5. Stir in the sliced olives and return the chicken to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these 20 mouth-watering chicken and rice crock pot recipes! From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy Cajun, and from teriyaki to Mediterranean olive, there’s a flavor combination to suit every taste. These easy-to-make dishes are perfect for busy families or singles looking for a quick and delicious meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and cheesy or light and zesty, these recipes are sure to please.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
