15 Minute Chicken and Rice Dinner
Enjoy all the flavor with none of the stress with this simple and delicious 15-Minute Chicken and Rice Dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp canola oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 tbsp chopped garlic
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups Minute® White Rice
- chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
If you have just 15 minutes to spare, you can enjoy a comforting, home-cooked chicken and rice meal that’s packed with flavor. Made in one pot, this easy dish combines tender chicken, perfectly seasoned rice and a rich, creamy sauce. Whether cooking for a busy weeknight or looking for a new family favorite, this recipe is a must-try!
How to Make 15-Minute Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 3 minutes per side, or until the chicken starts to brown.
Step 2: Add the Broth & Rice
Stir in the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Add the rice, stirring to combine. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Simmer Until Perfect
Lower the heat to a simmer, cover and cook for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165º F) and the rice is tender.
Step 4: Let It Rest
Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 3-5 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb any remaining liquid. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Recipe Tip
For extra color and nutrients, serve with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots or bell peppers.
Why This Chicken and Rice Recipe Works
✅ Fast & Easy: A simple, one-pot meal that’s ready in just 15 minutes!
✅ Full of Flavor: Made with garlic, onions and chicken broth for a rich, comforting taste.
✅ Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like rice and chicken.
✅ Versatile: Swap out chicken breasts for thighs, add veggies or mix in cheese for extra flavor.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Multiple Ways
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
When your schedule stresses you out and dinner is the last thing on your mind, your Instant Pot, pressure cooker or slow cooker can be a true lifesaver! Start with the sauté function using chicken breasts or boneless thighs and veggies. Then, add water or broth, rice and seasonings and set to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Note: Since our Minute® Rice is so conveniently quick to make in an Instant Pot, we suggest ensuring that the other ingredients such as chicken or vegetables are cooked almost completely before adding in the rice. Recipes may vary.
Chicken and rice is a classic dish with countless variations! Here are a few easy ways to mix things up:
Chicken and Rice Bake
Want a set-it-and-forget-it meal? Try a baked version!
- Combine chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup and broth in a baking dish.
- Bake at 375º F for 35 minutes, covered.
- Uncover, top with cheese or breadcrumbs and bake for 5 more minutes.
Perfect for meal prep and make-ahead dinners!
Cheesy Chicken and Rice
Add a melty, creamy touch to your meal by stirring in shredded cheddar or cream cheese. Try:
- Parmesan & breadcrumbs: Sprinkle on top before broiling.
- Cream cheese mix-in: Stir into the rice for a velvety texture.
- Mug Mac & Cheese: Use Minute® Rice Cup, cheddar and milk for a quick side dish.
Chicken, Broccoli and Rice Casserole
A comforting, all-in-one meal that’s easy to prepare!
- Combine cooked rice, shredded rotisserie chicken and steamed broccoli.
- Stir in a creamy sauce (cream of chicken soup + broth).
- Bake at 350º F for 25 minutes.
This dish is perfect for picky eaters and busy nights!
More Chicken and Rice Variations
Explore international flavors with these delicious variations!
Chicken and Yellow Rice
Love seasoned rice? A Minute® Yellow Rice Cups is a quick and flavorful base for your meal. Just heat and top with your favorite ingredients!
Curry Chicken and Rice
Try this quick and easy curry dish:
- Stir curry powder into the broth for a spiced-up rice dish.
- For a creamy version, add coconut milk.
- Try a Thai-inspired twist with red curry paste and lime juice!
Lemon Chicken and Rice
For a Mediterranean-inspired meal:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over your chicken before cooking.
- Stir dried oregano and thyme into the rice.
- Serve with roasted tomatoes and asparagus.
Spanish & Mexican Chicken and Rice
Did you know Spanish and Mexican rice are different?
- Spanish rice: Yellow from saffron or turmeric, with mild flavors.
- Mexican rice: Red from tomatoes and spicier with cumin and chilies.
Try either variation with shredded chicken for a delicious Tex-Mex meal!
Southern Chicken and Rice
A true comfort food, Southern-style chicken and rice is slow-cooked with butter, salt and vegetables. Try adding Cajun seasoning for a Louisiana-inspired dish!
Cajun Chicken and Rice
Love bold flavors? Make your own Cajun seasoning with:
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Oregano
- Cayenne
- Black pepper
Serve with a side of Red Beans and Rice for an authentic Southern meal.
Cuban Chicken and Rice (Arroz con Pollo)
A Latin American favorite, arroz con pollo is made with:
- Rice simmered in broth and tomatoes.
- Spices like cumin, turmeric and annatto for rich flavor.
- Chicken cooked right in the rice for extra tenderness.
Puerto Rican Chicken and Rice
Similar to Cuban arroz con pollo but with a sofrito base and pigeon peas. This dish is rich, hearty and full of island flavors!
Make Meal Time Easier with Minute® Rice
No matter how you choose to enjoy chicken and rice, Minute® Rice makes it faster and easier! Our instant and ready-to-serve rice options cut down cooking time so you can focus on flavor and fun.
Try this 15-Minute Chicken and Rice recipe tonight and make mealtime a breeze!
Chicken and Rice FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered
What Vegetables Go Well with Chicken and Rice?
Chicken and rice pair well with a variety of vegetables, adding color, texture and nutrients. Here are some great options:
- Roasted or Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, zucchini, bell peppers
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, arugula
- Stir-Fried Veggies: Snow peas, mushrooms, bok choy
- Oven-Roasted Sides: Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, asparagus
For a complete meal, try mixing in frozen peas or chopped bell peppers directly into the chicken and rice while cooking.
How Do I Make Chicken and Rice Soup?
To turn this dish into a cozy chicken and rice soup, follow these steps:
- Sauté Aromatics – In a large pot, cook onions, garlic and carrots in a bit of olive oil.
- Add Chicken & Broth – Pour in chicken broth and add shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great).
- Incorporate Rice – Stir in cooked Minute® Rice or let uncooked rice simmer in the broth until tender.
- Season & Simmer – Add salt, pepper and herbs like thyme or parsley. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Optional Creamy Version – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a richer texture.
This easy chicken and rice soup is perfect for meal prep, cold nights or when you’re feeling under the weather.
What Goes with Chicken and Rice?
This dish is incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious side dish ideas:
- Salads: A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Bread: Garlic bread, dinner rolls or naan
- Roasted Vegetables: Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes or asparagus
- Sauces & Condiments: A squeeze of lemon, a drizzle of soy sauce or a dollop of sour cream
Want more flavor? Try serving chicken and rice with salsa, guacamole or a spicy chili sauce for an extra kick!
