If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you’re going to love this Easy Rice Cooker Chicken and Rice Recipe. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish where tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice mingle with fragrant herbs and a touch of garlic. What makes it truly special is how effortlessly it comes together in your rice cooker, freeing you up to relax while the flavors develop. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to weeknight favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting together the ingredients for this Easy Rice Cooker Chicken and Rice Recipe is straightforward, but each element plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the savory chicken to the aromatic thyme and paprika, every ingredient contributes something unique that complements the whole dish beautifully.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): These provide juicy, tender protein that absorbs all the seasonings wonderfully.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice): The base of the dish, fluffy and perfectly cooked to soak up the chicken broth.
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water): Adds moisture and rich depth of flavor to the rice as it cooks.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Delivers a subtle sweetness and slight crunch to the mix.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, savory note that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings an earthy, herbal aroma that pairs perfectly with chicken.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Provides a gentle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter): Adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional): Adds a pop of color and a bit of sweetness that brightens up the entire dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Offers a fresh, vibrant finish that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
How to Make Easy Rice Cooker Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water to wash away the excess starch. This simple step helps keep the rice from becoming overly sticky and ensures every grain stays fluffy by the time it’s cooked.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Give your chicken breasts a flavorful makeover with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. If you have a moment and want to add an extra layer of flavor, you can quickly sear the chicken in olive oil before cooking, but this step is totally optional and the rice cooker will still do a stellar job.
Step 3: Layer Ingredients in the Rice Cooker
Begin by spreading the rinsed rice evenly in the bottom of the rice cooker. Then pour in the chicken broth, which will gently cook the rice and infuse it with rich flavor.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Vegetables
Place the seasoned chicken breasts directly on top of the rice. Scatter the chopped onion, minced garlic, and frozen peas (if using) over everything. Finally, drizzle the olive oil or place a small pat of butter over the chicken to add a wonderful moistness and richness.
Step 5: Cook the Meal
Close your rice cooker lid and set it to the “Cook” setting. Let the cooker work its magic for 25 to 30 minutes, depending on your model. If you’re using brown rice, keep in mind it might need a bit more time, so check your rice cooker’s guidelines.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
When your rice cooker’s cycle ends, open the lid and use a thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If it’s not quite done, simply close the lid and give it a few more minutes.
Step 7: Finish Cooking the Rice
If the rice isn’t tender yet, add a splash more broth or water and continue cooking for another 5 to 10 minutes. This ensures everything is perfectly juicy and ready to enjoy.
Step 8: Serve
Remove the chicken and fluff the rice gently with a fork, mixing in the onions and peas. Slice the chicken and serve it on top of the rice, then sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the whole dish for that burst of color and fresh aroma.
How to Serve Easy Rice Cooker Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t the only way to add a finishing touch. A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can brighten the flavors even more. Consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. These small additions can elevate your meal from everyday to extraordinary.
Side Dishes
This recipe is a full meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, think lightly dressed green salads, roasted vegetables, or a crisp cucumber salad. These sides add refreshing contrast and keep your plate balanced and colorful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more special occasion, serve the chicken and rice in individual bowls, layering the sliced chicken over the rice and topping it with garnishes. You can also scoop the rice into butter lettuce leaves for a fun hand-held option, or wrap slices of the chicken in warm tortillas alongside some rice and fresh herbs for a quick rice cooker-inspired burrito.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place your leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It should stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Just cool it completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, microwave portions covered with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in, or gently warm in a skillet with a splash of broth to refresh the rice and rehydrate the chicken. Avoid overheating, which can dry out the chicken and rice.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option and can make the dish even juicier. Just keep in mind the cooking time might be slightly longer depending on thickness, so check to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Is it okay to use water instead of chicken broth?
Yes, water works fine if you don’t have broth, but the chicken broth adds more depth and richness to the rice. If you use water, consider adding a bit more seasoning to make up for it.
Can I make this recipe without a rice cooker?
You can, but it requires more attention on the stove to manage the heat and cooking times. The rice cooker takes the guesswork out and cooks everything simultaneously, making this recipe especially easy and hands-off.
How do I adjust for brown rice?
Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice, so increase the liquid slightly and allow more cooking time according to your rice cooker’s recommendations. The rest of the method stays the same.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be excellent additions. Just add them along with the onion and garlic so they cook through nicely together.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Rice Cooker Chicken and Rice Recipe is a lifesaver for busy days when you want something delicious with minimal effort. The flavors meld beautifully as it cooks, and the hands-off approach gives you time to unwind while dinner prepares itself. Give it a try — your rice cooker is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen!
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Easy Rice Cooker Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Rice cooking with steaming in Rice Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Rice Cooker Chicken and Rice is a simple, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts cook simultaneously with flavorful seasoned rice, onions, garlic, and peas in your rice cooker, resulting in a delicious and comforting dish with minimal effort and cleanup.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Grains
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice, adjust cooking time accordingly)
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
Seasonings & Oils
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, preventing it from becoming too sticky while cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Optionally, sear the chicken in a skillet with olive oil for a few minutes on each side to enhance flavor.
- Layer the Rice: Place the rinsed rice in the rice cooker pot.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth or water over the rice.
- Add Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the rice.
- Add Vegetables and Fat: Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and frozen peas (if using) on top. Drizzle olive oil or place a small pat of butter over the chicken.
- Start Cooking: Close the rice cooker lid and set to the ‘Cook’ setting.
- Cook the Meal: Let the rice cooker cook for about 25-30 minutes until the cycle finishes. If using brown rice, cooking time may be longer, so refer to your rice cooker’s instructions.
- Check Doneness: Open the lid and check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If needed, close lid and continue cooking for a few more minutes.
- Ensure Rice is Cooked: If rice is not tender, add a little more broth or water and cook an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Serve the Chicken: Remove chicken from the rice cooker and slice.
- Fluff the Rice: Use a fork to fluff the rice, mixing through onions and peas evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Place sliced chicken on top of the rice and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts, but cooking times may vary slightly.
- If you prefer more color and flavor, sear the chicken before adding it to the rice cooker.
- Adjust seasoning and herbs to your taste; adding a bay leaf or a pinch of chili flakes can add variety.
- Frozen peas are optional but add a nice pop of color and sweetness.
- Monitor cooking times and liquid amounts closely if using brown rice or alternative grains.
