Welcome to a curated selection of healthy chicken and rice recipes, where ease, flexibility, and health benefits take center stage. These recipes not only showcase the versatility of chicken but also prioritize simplicity in preparation, making them ideal for busy schedules with simple meal prep options so you can reheat throughout the week for effortless weeknight dinners or pack-and-go lunches.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick one-pan Thai-inspired coconut yellow curry or a comforting chicken wild rice soup, these easy recipes are designed for convenience and heart-warming satisfaction on colder days.
Embrace the health-conscious options, including a vegan take on arroz con ‘pollo’ and a low-carb cheesy chicken and rice meal prep. With easy-to-follow steps and attention to nutrition, these chicken recipes promise a delightful culinary experience without compromising on health or simplicity.
Without further ado, here are our 10 favorite healthy chicken and rice recipes.
1. One Pan Thai-Inspired Coconut Yellow Curry Chicken & Rice
This one-pan Thai-inspired coconut yellow curry chicken and rice is a quick and flavorful meal combining coconut milk, aromatic spices, and colorful vegetables. Ideal for meal prep, the dish features browned boneless skinless chicken thighs or breast, sautéed veggies like bell peppers and green beans, and basmati rice, all simmered in a luscious blend of coconut milk, curry spices, and lime juice. With customization options like tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist, this convenient recipe offers a perfect balance of taste and convenience.
2. Mexican Chicken and Rice
This one-pan Mexican chicken and rice recipe offers a burst of vibrant flavors, making it an effortless and delightful weeknight meal for the whole family. The dish features cubed chicken, sautéed onions, and a medley of spices, like garlic powder, chili powder, and cumin, cooked with long-grain white rice, tomato sauce, chicken broth, and green chilies, all in a single pan. Topped with cilantro, this easy-to-prepare recipe results in a flavorful and satisfying dinner.
3. Vegan Arroz con ‘Pollo’
This vegan arroz con ‘pollo’ is a delightful take on the classic Spanish/Latin American one-pot dish, traditionally made with chicken and rice. In this vegan version, seitan, tofu, tempeh, or beans are seasoned and substituted for the meat. The dish is rich in flavors, featuring bell peppers, garlic cloves, onions, saffron, and a variety of herbs and spices. Easy to prepare in one pot, it’s a wholesome, vegan, nut-free, and gluten-free recipe that offers all the deliciousness of the original.
4. Chicken Wild Rice Soup
This chicken wild rice soup is a hearty and dairy-free winter delight, featuring fresh mushrooms, carrots, celery, onions, and thyme. The one-pot chicken dish incorporates nutty wild rice, lean boneless skinless chicken breasts, and a bean-based puree for creaminess, making it a healthier option without compromising on flavor. Perfect for meal prep and boasting a perfect balance of textures and flavors, this soup is a comforting and convenient option for chilly days.
5. Lemongrass Chicken with Rice and Zucchini
This lemongrass chicken with rice and zucchini is a flavor-packed delight featuring tender sautéed chicken thighs simmered in a creamy coconut and lemongrass sauce. The dish, paired with jasmine rice, fresh herbs, and optional veggies, strikes a perfect balance between comforting lusciousness and zesty freshness. To prepare this healthy chicken and rice recipe, simply sauté and simmer the chicken in a rich lemongrass-infused sauce to create a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant. The versatility of the recipe allows for substitutions and adaptations, making it a star in the realm of delicious and easy-to-make meals.
6. Chicken Burrito Recipe
This chicken burrito recipe offers a convenient meal prep solution, yielding 17 flavorful burritos with a hearty filling of brown rice, seasoned chicken, black beans, salsa, and veggies. Whether cooked on the stove or in an Instant Pot, the recipe provides flexibility for busy individuals with a total time of just 30 minutes. Simply wrap, freeze, and reheat these burritos for a quick and satisfying meal, making them a tasty alternative to store-bought options.
7. Low Carb Cheesy Chicken And Rice Meal Prep
This low-carb cheesy chicken and rice meal prep offers a delicious and health-conscious lunch option. Featuring pan-fried chicken breast, broccoli, and cauliflower rice smothered with cheese, it’s both filling and light, containing only 5g of carbohydrates and boasting 43g of protein. Easy to prepare in a single skillet, this healthy dinner is a flavorful alternative to traditional comfort food. Store leftovers in an airtight container for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
8. Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
With a prep time of 10 minutes and a cook time of just 6 minutes, this Instant Pot chicken fried rice is a quick and easy one-pot meal featuring jasmine rice, chicken, egg, carrots, and peas. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep lunches, it boasts simple ingredients and requires minimal prep. The dish is made in the Instant Pot, with the egg even scrambled within it, providing a convenient and flavorful alternative to traditional fried rice. Add in soy sauce and sesame oil at the end and optionally garnish with green onion and sriracha for a simple, family-friendly dinner.
9. Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
This cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that stands out for its homemade, nutritious twist—no canned soups involved. Featuring a delightful combination of instant brown rice, sautéed chicken, and fresh broccoli, the casserole offers a complete, flavorful, and well-balanced meal in one dish. With its simple ingredients, adaptability, and freezer-friendly nature, this recipe ensures both convenience and a comforting dining experience.
10. Chili Crisp Chicken Mango Cucumber Rice Bowl
This vibrant chili crisp chicken mango cucumber rice bowl is a delightful fusion of Thai flavors that’s both delicious and simple to make. The dish features crispy chicken, seasoned with Thai red curry paste and fish sauce, then coated in a rich chili crisp butter sauce. The chicken is served over a bed of pre-prepared cooked rice and topped with a refreshing mango herb salad, creating a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. With the freshness of mango, cucumber, and a zesty lime dressing, this bowl is a burst of color and taste, making it an ideal choice for a quick and flavorful meal.
Want more healthy chicken recipes? Check out these 9 Healthy Chicken Crock Pot Recipes.