Chicken Breast with Rice

Name: Chicken Breast with Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups white rice; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Deliciously tender chicken breast served over a bed of fluffy rice, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2025-12-24T12:57:37.263Z

This Chicken Breast with Rice recipe is a staple in many households. It's not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to pair it with various sauces or vegetables to suit your taste.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy chicken that's perfectly cooked every time
Simple ingredients that deliver big flavor
A complete meal in one dish, great for busy weeknights

      

A Quick and Easy Meal

When time is of the essence, this Chicken Breast with Rice recipe shines as a beacon of simplicity and flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a hearty meal on the table in less than 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can easily customize it by adding vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Whether you choose to include peas, bell peppers, or even a splash of lemon juice for zest, the foundational flavors of the chicken and rice will complement whatever you decide to add.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken breast is a lean protein source, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to maintain or build muscle. It is low in fat and high in essential nutrients, providing the body with the energy it needs to fuel daily activities. Paired with rice, which is a source of carbohydrates, this dish gives you a well-rounded meal that keeps you feeling full and satisfied.

Additionally, using chicken broth instead of water to cook the rice infuses it with rich flavors and nutrients. This not only enhances the taste but also adds depth to the dish, making it a wholesome meal that supports overall health and wellness.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Chicken Breast with Rice recipe is an excellent option for meal prepping. You can easily make a large batch and store individual portions in the refrigerator or freezer for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. By preparing this meal in advance, you can save time and avoid the temptation of unhealthy takeout options.

Simply cook the chicken and rice, let them cool, and then portion them into airtight containers. When you're ready to eat, just reheat and enjoy a delicious meal that tastes fresh and homemade, even on the busiest days.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

2 cups white rice
4 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon dried parsley

Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, butter, and dried parsley. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Prepare the Chicken

While the rice is cooking, season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve the chicken on top of the rice.

Enjoy your delicious chicken breast with rice!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Chicken Breast with Rice, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or green beans. This not only adds color to your plate but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal. A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing can also be a refreshing accompaniment, providing a contrast to the warm, hearty rice and chicken.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce over the chicken before serving. This will bring an exciting kick to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Storage Tips

Leftover Chicken Breast with Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the dish is cooled completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup inside the container. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain the rice's moisture and prevent it from drying out.

If you plan to freeze leftovers, portion them into smaller containers, and label them with the date. This will help you keep track of how long they've been stored. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavor profiles by using various seasonings or marinades for the chicken. For instance, a teriyaki or lemon herb marinade can give the dish an Asian or Mediterranean twist, respectively. You can also swap out white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier grain alternative.

To add more texture and flavor, consider incorporating nuts or seeds, such as toasted almonds or sunflower seeds, into the rice just before serving. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

You can serve it with steamed vegetables, a salad, or your favorite sauce.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and rice ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.