Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal option? Look no further! Chicken and brown rice is a classic combination that never goes out of style, and when combined with the right flavors and ingredients, it can be truly mouthwatering. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful chicken and brown rice recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From spicy Cajun chicken to Mediterranean-inspired salads, and from creamy casseroles to quick and easy skillet meals, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a home cook seeking inspiration for your next meal prep session, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these recipes, exploring the ingredients, cooking methods, and tips to help you create the perfect dish. So grab a plate of chicken and brown rice, get cozy, and let’s start cooking!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Brown Rice and Spinach
This classic comfort food dish combines tender chicken breast, rich garlic butter sauce, fluffy brown rice, and wilted spinach. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 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 chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the garlic butter sauce: melt remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Cook brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
6. Wilt spinach by heating it with a little bit of water or pan-frying until tender.
7. Serve chicken breasts with garlic butter sauce, brown rice, and wilted spinach.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Brown Rice Skillet
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this bold and flavorful skillet dish, packed with juicy chicken, savory brown rice, and a kick of heat from the Cajun seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add cooked brown rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the Cajun-spiced rice mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken and Brown Rice Bowl
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this bright and flavorful recipe that combines the simplicity of chicken and rice with the brightness of lemon and herbs. A perfect blend of citrusy zing and savory goodness in one bowl!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush with the lemon-herb mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve chicken on top of brown rice.
6. Garnish with additional rosemary leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
This classic Japanese-inspired dish combines sweet and savory flavors with a hint of spice. Serve it over fluffy brown rice for a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or vegetable oil for stir-frying
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, ginger, and garlic.
3. Heat 1 tbsp of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
5. Pour the teriyaki sauce mixture into the skillet and stir to coat chicken and vegetables.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot over cooked brown rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Brown Rice Casserole
A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, brown rice, and melted cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken-broccoli mixture, and milk. Stir well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Brown Rice Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the tastes of the Mediterranean with the warmth of brown rice, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, brown rice, olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss to coat.
3. Stir in parsley; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes cooking the brown rice)
Slow Cooker Chicken and Brown Rice Soup
A comforting and easy-to-make soup that’s perfect for a chilly day or a busy weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken, nutty brown rice, and flavorful vegetables in a rich and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, brown rice, chicken broth, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and diced tomatoes.
2. Add thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Chicken Fajita Brown Rice Burrito Bowls
Add some excitement to your mealtime with these flavorful and nutritious burrito bowls, packed with chicken fajitas, brown rice, and plenty of toppings. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet with diced tomatoes and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble burrito bowls by filling a bowl with brown rice, then topping with chicken fajita mixture and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken with Brown Rice
Savor the rich flavors of India with this easy-to-make Coconut Curry Chicken recipe, served over fluffy brown rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Return chicken to skillet; cook until coated with sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve over brown rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Brown Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of BBQ chicken and creamy brown rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, brown rice, and BBQ sauce. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken-rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken with Brown Rice
This refreshing recipe combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the savory flavor of chicken and the comfort of brown rice, creating a well-balanced meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve with brown rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Brown Rice Bake
A flavorful and satisfying one-pot meal that combines the richness of pesto with the comfort of chicken, brown rice, and vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, brown rice, frozen vegetables, pesto sauce, and olive oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken and Brown Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats
This refreshing twist on traditional stuffed zucchini boats is perfect for a light and satisfying summer meal. Moist chicken and fluffy brown rice mingle with the natural sweetness of zucchini, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden package.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix chicken, brown rice, cheese, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the chicken mixture, mounding it slightly.
5. Place the boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken with Brown Rice Pilaf
This recipe combines the tanginess of mustard with the sweetness of honey, creating a flavorful and aromatic chicken dish that pairs perfectly with a nutty brown rice pilaf.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the pilaf:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare pilaf by sautéing onion and garlic in vegetable oil until softened.
6. Add brown rice to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
7. Add water to the skillet, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Mushroom and Brown Rice
A hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep. This recipe combines the savory goodness of chicken, mushrooms, and brown rice all in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup uncooked brown rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the mushrooms, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the chicken broth, brown rice, and cooked chicken back into the pot.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken and Brown Rice Jambalaya
A classic Louisiana-inspired dish that combines the flavors of chicken, sausage, and spices with hearty brown rice. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage, such as Andouille, sliced
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked brown rice.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Brown Rice and Veggies
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the tanginess of balsamic glaze with the comfort of brown rice and roasted veggies.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Brush the balsamic glaze mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Roast chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss mixed vegetables with remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve chicken breasts with roasted veggies and brown rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Chicken and Brown Rice Sushi Rolls
A creative twist on traditional sushi, these rolls combine tender chicken and nutty brown rice with crunchy vegetables and savory sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cucumber, sliced
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the cooked brown rice and diced chicken breast.
2. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of the rice-chicken mixture onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Arrange the cucumber and avocado slices horizontally in the middle of the filling.
4. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
5. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Buffalo Chicken and Brown Rice Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the boldness of buffalo chicken and brown rice. This twist on traditional stuffed sweet potatoes is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped green onions, crumbled blue cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a bowl, mix together chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and brown rice.
4. Once sweet potatoes are cooked, slice them in half lengthwise and fluff the flesh with a fork.
5. Stuff each sweet potato with the buffalo chicken mixture, drizzling with olive oil and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chicken and Brown Rice Paella
Paella, a traditional Spanish dish, combines flavorful chicken, savory rice, and a hint of smokiness from the pan. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups brown rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes).
3. Add the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add the brown rice, stirring to coat with the mixture.
5. Cook for 2 minutes, then add the chicken broth.
6. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering chicken and brown rice recipes to elevate your mealtime game! From spicy Cajun skillets to Mediterranean salads, these flavorful dishes are sure to please. Try Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach, Teriyaki Stir-Fry, or Cheesy Broccoli Casserole for a comforting treat. For lighter options, explore Slow Cooker Soup, Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken, or Pesto Baked Chicken. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and easy or adventurous and international, these recipes have got you covered.
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