Go Back
Healthy Rice And Chicken Dinner Skillet Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Healthy Rice And Chicken Dinner Skillet Recipe

I just made this healthy rice and chicken dinner skillet — 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.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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.

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

Notes

  • 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.