Grilled chicken and rice make for a classic, comforting combination that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. This versatile pairing offers endless possibilities — from vibrant, flavor-packed marinades to hearty bowls that can be customized with fresh vegetables, herbs, and sauces. Whether you’re craving something light and healthy or rich and satisfying, these recipes are designed to fit seamlessly into your routine and keep dinner exciting night after night.
This collection of 14 grilled chicken and rice recipes features a variety of flavors inspired by cuisines around the world. You’ll find everything from simple lemon herb grilled chicken served over fluffy jasmine rice, to spicy Mexican-inspired bowls loaded with black beans and salsa, to Asian-style grilled chicken paired with fragrant sticky rice and tangy sauces. Each recipe is crafted for ease and speed, making them ideal for those busy evenings when you want a home-cooked meal without the hassle.
Along the way, you’ll also discover tips on grilling chicken perfectly every time, how to cook rice for maximum fluffiness, and suggestions for quick side dishes that round out your meal. These recipes are designed not only to taste great but also to help you build a dependable weeknight dinner rotation that your whole family will look forward to.
Dive in and find your new favorite grilled chicken and rice dinner — something you’ll want to make again and again, night after night.
Teriyaki Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry Rice
This Teriyaki Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry Rice is a delightful mix of tender chicken, colorful veggies, and fluffy rice, all tossed in a savory teriyaki sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes!
The balance of sweet and savory flavors, paired with the vibrant crunch of fresh vegetables, makes this dish a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
- 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Pour in the teriyaki and soy sauces, mixing well to coat the chicken and vegetables.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine and heat through.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Chipotle Chicken with Black Beans and Rice
This Chipotle Chicken with Black Beans and Rice is a perfect weeknight meal. It’s packed with flavor, combining spicy chipotle chicken, hearty black beans, and fluffy rice. Simple to make, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings.
The smoky, spicy chicken pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the black beans and the comforting rice. This dish is not only delicious but also satisfying, bringing a taste of the Southwest to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chipotle sauce, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken with the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Cook the Rice: In a pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until rice is fluffy.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
- Prepare the Beans: In another pot, heat the black beans and corn (if using) until warmed through.
- Assemble the Dish: Serve the chicken on a bed of rice, topped with black beans and corn. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Herb Butter Chicken with Garlic Fried Rice
This dish features juicy grilled chicken infused with herb butter that melts beautifully over the succulent meat. The combination of garlic fried rice brings a delightful twist, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. It’s simple to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy evenings.
The herb butter adds a rich flavor while the garlic in the rice provides a savory note that complements the chicken perfectly. Together, they create a satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Herb Butter: In a bowl, mix softened butter with parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill on medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
- Add Herb Butter: When the chicken is almost done, top each breast with a generous spoonful of herb butter and let it melt over the chicken.
- Make Garlic Fried Rice: In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add cooked rice and mix well. Stir in chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Plate the garlic fried rice and place the herb butter chicken on top. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.
BBQ Chicken with Cilantro-Lime Rice
This BBQ Chicken with Cilantro-Lime Rice is a delightful weeknight meal that’s both tasty and easy to make. The grilled chicken is marinated in a smoky barbecue sauce, giving it a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the zesty cilantro-lime rice.
The rice is fluffy and aromatic, thanks to fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice, making it a refreshing side to the rich chicken. This dish is not only satisfying but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken breasts with barbecue sauce, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through and juices run clear.
- Prepare Rice: While the chicken is grilling, mix the cooked rice with olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and diced bell pepper if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it over the cilantro-lime rice, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges.
Honey Mustard Chicken with Wild Rice Medley
This Honey Mustard Chicken with Wild Rice Medley is a delightful dish that brings a perfect blend of sweetness and tanginess. The grilled chicken shines with its honey mustard glaze, creating a flavorful crust that pairs beautifully with the nutty wild rice and fresh veggies.
Simple to prepare, this recipe is great for busy weeknights. You’ll love how quickly it all comes together, making it an easy go-to meal that satisfies the whole family!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the wild rice under cold water. In a pot, combine wild rice and water (or chicken broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 45 minutes or until tender.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through, brushing with extra marinade as you go.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a pan, heat a little olive oil and sauté mixed vegetables until tender. Add lemon juice for extra flavor.
- Serve: Plate the grilled chicken over the wild rice medley and top with sautéed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Rice
This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. The chicken is marinated in a zesty lemon-herb mix, which brings a fresh and bright flavor to each bite. Paired with fluffy cilantro rice, it offers a delightful balance that’s both satisfying and light.
Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it also requires minimal prep and cook time, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. Just fire up the grill, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Rice: In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is cooked. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Combine: Stir chopped cilantro and lime juice into the rice. Serve the grilled chicken over cilantro rice.
Mediterranean Chicken with Lemon Rice Pilaf
This Mediterranean Chicken with Lemon Rice Pilaf is a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. The grilled chicken is marinated in zesty herbs and spices, bringing out a savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with the lemon-infused rice. It’s simple to make, requiring minimal prep, which means you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal.
The bright notes of lemon and the tenderness of the grilled chicken create a delightful combination that transports you to the Mediterranean with every bite. It’s ideal for busy nights or a cozy family dinner, and the leftovers are just as delicious!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well-coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Rice: In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Stir in some lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Add lemon slices to the grill for the last few minutes for added flavor.
- Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and plate it alongside the grilled chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley and olives, if desired. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean meal!
Spicy Garlic Chicken with Coconut Rice
Spicy Garlic Chicken with Coconut Rice is a vibrant dish that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. The marinated chicken is infused with a blend of spices and garlic, creating a savory and slightly spicy profile that pairs perfectly with the creamy coconut rice. This recipe is simple to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
The coconut rice adds a unique twist, balancing the heat of the chicken with its subtle sweetness. Together, they create a delightful combination that is sure to please your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a dish to impress, this recipe is a winner!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, coat well, and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Rice: In a saucepan, combine jasmine rice and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork and stir in lime juice.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and charred. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Place a scoop of coconut rice on a plate, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Lime & Chili Grilled Chicken with Spanish Rice
This Lime & Chili Grilled Chicken with Spanish Rice is a tasty and vibrant dish that brings a burst of flavor to your weeknight dinners. The combination of zesty lime and spicy chili creates a delightful marinade that makes the chicken juicy and full of flavor. Paired with the savory Spanish rice, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
With minimal prep time and quick cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings. Just marinate your chicken, grill it to perfection, and serve it over a bed of colorful rice. Let’s jump right into the delicious details!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Rice: In a saucepan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until soft. Add the rice and stir for a couple of minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
- Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and place it on plates. Top with grilled chicken, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.
Buffalo Chicken with Cheesy Rice Casserole
This Buffalo Chicken with Cheesy Rice Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors that brings a touch of comfort to your weeknight dinners. The spicy buffalo chicken pairs perfectly with creamy, cheesy rice, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s simple enough to prepare on a busy evening, making it a go-to recipe for many households.
The combination of zesty buffalo sauce and melted cheese will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, so cleanup is a breeze. Get ready for a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the cooked rice, cream cheese, and sour cream to the mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and green onions.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Garlic Lemon Chicken with Sesame Rice
This Garlic Lemon Chicken with Sesame Rice is a bright, zesty dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. The chicken is marinated in a tangy garlic and lemon mixture, which infuses it with fresh flavors. The sesame rice adds a nutty depth that perfectly complements the chicken, making each bite a delightful experience.
Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it’s also quick, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a great option for busy evenings when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss. Plus, it’s sure to impress family or guests!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Cook the Rice: In a pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add jasmine rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Finish the Rice: Once the rice is done, stir in sesame oil and chopped green onions. Fluff with a fork.
- Serve: Plate the sesame rice and top it with the grilled chicken. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra green onions for garnish.
Tandoori Chicken with Basmati Rice
Tandoori chicken is a flavorful and vibrant dish that brings together the smoky essence of grilled chicken marinated in aromatic spices. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The tender chicken, paired with fluffy basmati rice, creates a delightful meal that tantalizes your taste buds.
The marinade is the star here, combining yogurt with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala for a rich taste. This dish is not only satisfying but also brings a taste of Indian cuisine right to your table!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Sliced lemon for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix yogurt, tandoori masala, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and salt. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, add the rice, and a pinch of salt. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and water is absorbed.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and place it on a plate. Top with grilled chicken and garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon slices.
Jerk Chicken with Coconut Jasmine Rice
Jerk Chicken with Coconut Jasmine Rice brings a burst of tropical flavors to your weeknight dinners. The juicy, spicy jerk chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy coconut rice, making every bite an exciting experience. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, ensuring you can whip up a fantastic meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
With its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is perfect for a casual family dinner or when you’re entertaining friends. The combination of herbs and spices in the jerk marinade elevates the chicken, while the coconut rice adds a subtle sweetness that balances everything out. You’ll find yourself wanting to make this dish on repeat!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with jerk seasoning and olive oil. Toss to coat evenly and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge).
- Cook the Rice: Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and nicely charred.
- Finish the Rice: Fluff the coconut rice with a fork and stir in the diced carrots and green onions. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to warm the vegetables.
- Serve: Plate the coconut jasmine rice, top with jerk chicken, and garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges.
Smoky Paprika Chicken with Parmesan Rice
This smoky paprika chicken dish is a delightful combination of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any weeknight meal. The chicken is marinated in a blend of smoky paprika and spices, giving it a rich, savory taste that pairs perfectly with creamy Parmesan rice.
Preparing this dish is simple, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. The chicken cooks quickly on the grill or in a skillet, while the rice simmers to creamy perfection. Your family is sure to love this hearty meal!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade and let them sit for at least 20 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let rest.
- Prepare the Rice: In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Finish the Rice: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Slice the chicken and serve over the Parmesan rice. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of flavor.
Final Thoughts
With these 14 grilled chicken and rice recipes, weeknight dinners just got a whole lot easier and more delicious. Whether you’re looking for quick meals that satisfy or new flavors to spice up your routine, these dishes have you covered. Keep this list handy, and enjoy stress-free, flavorful dinners on repeat!