Easy Chicken Rice Pilaf

Ever find yourself rambling through the kitchen staring at the same usual suspects and craving a change? Well, say hello to Easy Chicken Rice Pilaf—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Comfort meets creativity with tender chunks of chicken nestled in fluffy rice, punctuated by the pop of bright veggies. The spices dance just right, making it flavorful without stealing the spotlight. Whip this up on a weeknight or slide it in for a cozy weekend lunch—it never disappoints.

Once upon a dinner rush, my husband fell for this dish. Picture him, fork in hand, eyebrows raised in pleasant surprise as he paused between bites to ask, “What did you put in this?” It quickly became a staple, joining the rotation of beloved recipes that can conjure excitement and calm the hangry bears—our kids included. We’ve shared many laughs and stories over steaming plates of this pilaf, chasing the last grains of rice with our forks as if they were tiny treasures.

How to Make It

Alright, friend, grab a deep pan or pot and set it over medium heat. You’re gonna start by letting some onions and garlic get acquainted with olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant. Toss in the chicken pieces and give them a good old stir—brown those babies like you mean it, but no pressure. Once they’re golden, add your rice to the party, letting it soak up the vibes. Season it like you mean it—cumin, turmeric, maybe a rogue pinch of paprika. Pour in broth and let it simmer down like smooth jazz. Just cover it and forget about it, well kinda, for about 20-ish minutes. Fork fluff it and sprinkle some fresh herbs on top if you’re feeling posh.

✔Ingredient Notes

– Chicken: The more tender pieces do best here. I once used thighs and I’ll never look back—juicier than a gossip column.
– Rice: Goes to mush if you’re overzealous with the water measurements—measured enthusiasm only, dear!
– Veggies: Peppers, peas, all of the above? You choose. Just don’t skip them—they’re the pop of color you need.
– Spices: Customize it! One pinch too little and it’s meh; one too much and you’re a spice dragon.

✔Recipe Steps

1. Heat oil in a pot; soften onions and garlic.
2. Add chicken; brown on all sides.
3. Stir rice into browned chicken.
4. Season with your favorite spices.
5. Pour in broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Cover, cook 20 mins until rice is tender.
7. Fluff with a fork; garnish with herbs.

What to Serve It With

This pilaf is a standalone superstar, but pair it with a vibrant green salad or a side of roasted veggies for bonus points. And if you have homemade naan nearby? Jackpot.

✔Tips & Mistakes

✔Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Throw them in an airtight container and stash them in the fridge. They’ll last a few days, but good luck keeping it around that long. Cold pilaf for breakfast? Why not? No judgment here—desperation meals have a cozy charm.

✔Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu if that’s more your jam. Got coconut milk? Replace half the broth for a more tropical twist. Messed up the herb ratio once and ended up with an accidental sage party—not bad at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Easy Chicken Rice Pilaf

This flavorful chicken rice pilaf is a quick and easy one-pot meal perfect for weeknight dinners.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
• ▢ 1 cup long grain white rice
• ▢ 2 cups chicken broth
• ▢ 1 tbsp olive oil
• ▢ 0.5 cup chopped onion optional, for added flavor
• ▢ 1 tsp garlic powder
• ▢ 0.75 tsp salt
• ▢ 0.25 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
• Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add to skillet and brown on both sides, about 4 minutes per side.
• Remove chicken and set aside. Add rice to the skillet and stir to coat in oil and juices.
• Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
• Return chicken to the pan, cover, reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
• Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Notes

For best results, use fresh chicken broth and make sure to simmer gently to avoid burning the rice.