I have to tell you, this Healthy Rice and Chicken Dinner Skillet Recipe is one of my go-to weeknight meals. I love how everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup so simple. The flavors are fresh, comforting, and balanced, perfect for a filling yet healthy dinner.

I made it the first time on a busy weekday, and it was ready in no time. Honestly, it’s become a recipe I turn to whenever I need something hearty but nutritious. You can also enjoy similar flavors in this Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs Recipe.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this skillet recipe. Each ingredient has a little tip from my experience to make the dish even better.

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – I find fresh chicken works best; it sears nicely and stays juicy.
1 cup long-grain white rice – Rinsing the rice beforehand helps prevent it from sticking.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Adds flavor without overwhelming the dish with salt.
1 tablespoon olive oil – I use extra virgin for richer flavor and a healthier option.
1 medium onion, diced – Caramelizing the onion first adds a natural sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic really elevates the aroma and taste.
1 cup bell peppers, diced – Red and yellow peppers make the dish vibrant and slightly sweet.
1 cup fresh spinach – I avoid frozen spinach here as it can make the dish watery.
1 teaspoon paprika – Gives a subtle smoky flavor.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds a Mediterranean touch.
Salt and black pepper, to taste – I always taste as I go to balance flavors.
Optional garnish: fresh parsley or grated Parmesan – Grating cheese fresh makes a huge difference.

Note: several serving

Variations

I love experimenting with this skillet, and there are so many ways to tweak it:

For a dairy-free option, skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast.
If you want extra flavor, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Use brown rice or quinoa for a higher fiber alternative.
Swap chicken for shrimp or turkey for a different protein twist.

Cooking Time

Here’s how long you’ll need from start to finish:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

Keeping it simple is the best approach:

Large skillet – For cooking chicken and rice in one pan.
Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring without scratching the pan.
Knife and cutting board – To prep vegetables and chicken.
Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.

How to Make Healthy Rice and Chicken Dinner Skillet Recipe

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing, cutting, and measuring everything. Dice your onion, bell peppers, and chicken, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready makes cooking smooth and stress-free.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear them until golden brown. This locks in moisture and adds a delicious crust.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant. I love how the smell fills the kitchen at this stage!

Add the Rice and Spices

Stir in the rice, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toasting the rice for a minute helps it absorb flavors better.

Pour in the Broth and Simmer

Add the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15–18 minutes. The rice will cook perfectly while soaking up all the flavors.

Finish with Spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach at the last minute until it wilts. It keeps the greens bright and fresh. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Serve and Garnish

I like to sprinkle fresh parsley or a little Parmesan on top. It adds color, flavor, and a touch of elegance to the dish.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience, these small tweaks really enhance the dish:

I like to sear the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which gives a better crust.
Using fresh vegetables instead of frozen keeps the skillet from becoming watery.
I sometimes squeeze a bit of lemon over the finished dish for brightness.
Stir gently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom but ensure even cooking.

How to Serve Healthy Rice and Chicken Dinner Skillet Recipe

Serving this skillet is easy and satisfying. I usually dish it onto plates and sprinkle parsley or grated Parmesan for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a more elegant presentation, serve it in the skillet itself and let everyone help themselves. You can also enjoy similar hearty dinners like the Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs Recipe.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough idea of what you’re getting per serving:

Calories: 350–400 kcal – Perfect for a balanced dinner portion.
Protein: 30–32 g – Chicken provides a satisfying protein boost.
Carbohydrates: 40–45 g – Rice gives energy without feeling heavy.
Fat: 10–12 g – Mostly from olive oil and natural chicken fats, heart-healthy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I often reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Freezing: You can freeze this skillet in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or microwave until steaming hot. I like to add a little extra broth if it seems dry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This skillet has quickly become a favorite, and here’s why:

Easy Preparation: It’s all made in one pan, so cleanup is minimal. I love that it doesn’t take much time.
Healthy and Balanced: Packed with protein, veggies, and wholesome carbs. It keeps me full and satisfied.
Versatile: You can swap proteins, grains, and veggies according to what’s in your fridge.
Flavorful: Even with minimal spices, the combination of garlic, paprika, and broth makes it rich and savory.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone I serve it to enjoys it, and it’s great for meal prepping.

Ash Tyrrell