Nutritious & Easy Chicken and Rice Recipes You’ll Love
Nutritious & Easy Chicken and Rice Recipes You’ll Love
Wholesome, customizable meals that are great for meal prep and leftovers!
Chicken and rice is more than just a simple, comforting meal—it’s a powerhouse of nutrition, convenience, and endless customization. Packed with lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential vitamins, this classic combo fuels your body with energy, supports muscle growth, and keeps you feeling satisfied.
One of the best things about chicken and rice dishes is their adaptability. Whether you prefer bold spices, creamy sauces, or fresh herbs, this meal can be tailored to fit any cuisine or dietary preference. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—make a big batch, store leftovers, and enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week.
Want to add more variety to your meals? Check out these chicken and rice recipes, along with some of our favourite chicken-based dishes that pair perfectly with rice!
Coconut Thyme Chicken & Rice
Recipe by Megan Horsley
A nourishing one-pot meal that combines the anti-inflammatory power of saffron with the richness of coconut milk and the fibre-packed benefits of brown rice. Saffron is known for its antioxidant properties and may support heart health, PMS relief, and even cognitive function. Brown basmati rice provides a steady source of energy, supports digestive health, and offers essential folate, making it an excellent choice for pregnancy and breastfeeding. The addition of kale and fresh herbs boosts this dish with vitamins and minerals, creating a well-rounded, comforting meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Chicken & Rice Soup
Recipe by Fran Allen
A light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for meal prep and quick dinners. Packed with lean protein from chicken, immune-boosting garlic, and nutrient-dense vegetables, this soup provides a well-rounded balance of macronutrients. Brown rice adds fibre for digestive health and steady blood sugar control, making it a great option for those managing diabetes. The inclusion of kale and fresh dill enhances the dish with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. For an extra nutritional boost, consider stirring in a spoonful of miso paste before serving, which supports gut health with probiotics.
Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma
Recipe by Fran Allen
Middle Eastern spices and oven-roasted goodness come together in this simple yet flavourful dish. The combination of cumin, za’atar, and turmeric provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, while chicken thighs deliver high-quality protein for muscle health. Cauliflower, a cruciferous vegetable rich in fibre and vitamins C and K, promotes gut health and immune function. Pairing this dish with a side of brown rice or a quinoa pilaf adds extra fibre and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. Try serving it with a rice-based tabbouleh or warm saffron-infused rice to complement the bold flavours.
Tahini Buffalo Chicken Bowl
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
A protein-packed meal that delivers a perfect balance of nutrients for sustained energy. Jasmine rice provides a light, aromatic base, while roasted sweet potatoes and broccoli contribute fibre, antioxidants, and essential vitamins. The buffalo tahini sauce offers healthy fats, supporting brain function and inflammation reduction. Goat cheese adds calcium and probiotics for gut health, while cilantro offers a detoxifying boost. This meal is ideal for meal prepping and can be easily adjusted for different dietary needs. For extra variety, swap the jasmine rice for brown or wild rice to increase fibre and mineral content.
One Pan Crispy Chicken & Artichokes
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
Crispy, golden-brown chicken pairs beautifully with briny olives, tender artichokes, and fragrant herbs in this elegant, easy meal. Artichokes support liver health and digestion with their high fibre and prebiotic content, while Castelvetrano olives provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. The dish is naturally grain-free but can be served alongside a scoop of fluffy rice to round out the meal. A fragrant saffron rice or a simple lemon-herb rice pilaf would complement the Mediterranean flavours while adding extra fibre and nutrients.
Turmeric Braised Chicken Thighs
Recipe by Fran Allen
Golden turmeric lends its vibrant colour and anti-inflammatory benefits to this comforting dish. Combined with coconut milk, cumin, and chilli flakes, the result is a deeply flavourful and nutrient-rich meal. Chicken thighs provide a good source of iron and protein, while kale adds vitamins K, C, and A for immune and bone health. Since this dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, serving it with brown basmati or wild rice would add fibre and help balance blood sugar. Try incorporating turmeric-infused rice or coconut-lime rice for an extra layer of flavour.
Spring Vegetable and Chicken Stir Fry
Recipe by Megan Horsley
This colourful, nutrient-packed stir fry celebrates the freshness of spring vegetables. Snap peas, mushrooms, and broccoli provide a variety of antioxidants, fibre, and essential vitamins, while chicken offers a lean source of protein. Brown rice completes the dish, delivering slow-digesting carbohydrates for lasting energy and gut-friendly fibre. A touch of rice vinegar and coconut aminos enhances the flavours while keeping the meal light and refreshing. This balanced dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner that supports overall wellness.
Skillet Roast Chicken & Peaches
Recipe by Fran Allen
Fresh peaches create a naturally sweet and tangy sauce that perfectly complements roasted chicken. Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, peaches support immune function and skin health. The addition of Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika enhances both flavour and nutritional benefits. Since this dish lacks a grain component, consider serving it over a bed of wild rice or a nutty brown rice pilaf to add fibre and essential minerals. A side of herbed rice or a simple garlic-infused jasmine rice would make a fantastic pairing.
Immunity-Boosting Chicken Soup
Recipe by Julia Gibson
A powerhouse of immune-supporting ingredients, this soup is loaded with garlic, ginger, turmeric, and bone broth to help fight off colds and promote gut health. Bone broth provides collagen for joint health, while miso paste adds probiotics for a healthy digestive system. Jasmine rice contributes easy-to-digest carbohydrates, making this soup both nourishing and comforting. The combination of lemon and cayenne pepper enhances absorption of key nutrients and provides an invigorating kick. Ideal for supporting overall wellness, this soup is a must-have for the colder months.
Curry Chicken
Recipe by Tiana Pollari
This curry chicken is a fragrant and warming dish inspired by traditional Jamaican flavours. Turmeric, cardamom, and cumin provide anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, while coconut oil adds healthy fats that support brain and heart health. Chicken thighs contribute high-quality protein and essential nutrients like zinc and iron. While this recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, serving it with a side of fluffy basmati rice or coconut-infused jasmine rice enhances both taste and nutritional value. The addition of rice helps balance the spice and creates a more satisfying, well-rounded meal.
