Do Share Recipe

Healthy Rice And Chicken Dinner Skillet Recipe | Easy & Wholesome

I just made this healthy rice and chicken dinner skillet Recipe and wow, it was comforting, satisfying, and so easy. I couldn’t wait to share it with you because it’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want something wholesome but low-effort. The mix of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables feels hearty without being heavy.

The aroma alone made me excited to sit down and eat. And the best part? Only one pan to wash at the end. If you enjoy recipes like this, you might also like the Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe for another flavorful chicken and rice twist.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need (about 3 servings). I also added little tips so everything turns out just right.

280 g (≈ 10 oz) chicken breast, cut into strips — cook quickly and stay lean.
1 ½ tbsp olive oil — gives a smooth, balanced flavor and helps everything sauté evenly.
3 garlic cloves, minced — fresh garlic makes the dish smell amazing; avoid using garlic powder if possible.
2 cups zucchini, chopped — keeps the skillet moist and light without overpowering.
1 bell pepper, chopped — adds crunch, color, and natural sweetness.
1 cup frozen peas — they thaw quickly and stay firm without turning mushy.
2 cups cooked rice — day-old rice works best because it stays fluffy.
1 ½ tbsp tamari sauce — adds rich, savory flavor; soy sauce works too.
3 scallions (green onions), thinly chopped — added at the end for freshness.

Note: yields several servings.

Variations

Here are some easy ways to adapt the recipe:

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier results.
Replace rice with quinoa, bulgur, or millet for extra nutrition.
Add extra veggies like broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, or cabbage.
For gluten-free or low-sodium versions, use low-sodium tamari or coconut aminos.
Add herbs or a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness and brightness.

If you love adding beans for extra protein, you can also enjoy a Mediterranean White Bean Salad Recipe alongside this skillet for a fresh, healthy side.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: ~5 minutes
Cooking Time: ~15 minutes
Total Time: ~20 minutes

Equipment You Need

Skillet — to cook everything in one pan.
Spatula or wooden spoon — for mixing ingredients evenly.
Knife — for chopping vegetables and chicken.
Cutting board — to safely prep ingredients.
Measuring spoons — for oil and tamari accuracy.

How to Make Healthy Rice and Chicken Dinner Skillet

Cook the chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken strips. Let them cook for about four minutes, stirring occasionally so they brown lightly. They don’t need to cook fully now because they’ll finish cooking with the vegetables.

Add vegetables and peas

Add the zucchini, garlic, and bell pepper. Stir and cook for about two minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften. Then add the frozen peas and cook another three minutes until everything is heated through and vibrant.

Mix in rice and tamari

Add the cooked rice and drizzle in the tamari sauce. Stir well so everything combines. Cook for about three minutes, letting the rice get slightly toasty before stirring — it gives wonderful flavor and texture.

Finish with scallions and serve

Sprinkle in the chopped scallions and give the skillet one final stir. Turn off the heat and let the flavors settle. Serve immediately while hot and fragrant.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From my own kitchen experience:

I always prefer using leftover rice because it doesn’t turn mushy.
If the pan feels dry, adding a teaspoon of olive oil helps everything cook evenly.
A splash of broth or water while mixing in the rice keeps it moist.
Cutting veggies into similar-sized pieces helps them cook uniformly.
Before serving, I always taste and add a touch more tamari if needed.

How to Serve Healthy Rice and Chicken Dinner Skillet

Serve this skillet meal in shallow bowls to show off the colorful vegetables. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for color. A lemon wedge on the side brightens the flavors beautifully. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed greens for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick idea of what one serving provides:

Calories: ~438 kcal
Protein: ~38 g
Carbohydrates: ~46 g
Fat: ~11 g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storage in fridge: Once cooled, place leftovers in an airtight container. They stay fresh for 3–4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until steaming hot.

Freezing: Freeze in airtight containers for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Warm on low–medium heat and add a splash of broth or water if needed to restore moisture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A few reasons this dish has become a favorite:

It’s quick — only about 20 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy days.
It’s flexible — swap veggies, grains, or proteins based on what you have.
It’s balanced — lean protein, vegetables, and carbs in one skillet.
It’s budget-friendly — uses everyday, affordable ingredients.
It’s one-pan — minimal cleanup and maximum convenience.

Ben Carraoli