Chicken and Rice in Rice Cooker Recipe: One-Pot Dinner Meal
Let’s be honest, some days you just want something warm, filling, and easy, without creating a pile of dirty dishes. That’s exactly why I love this chicken and rice in rice cooker recipe. It’s the kind of meal that brings comfort after a long day and only takes minutes to prepare.
I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those hectic weekdays when I was too tired to cook but too hungry for takeout. I tossed a few simple ingredients into my rice cooker, crossed my fingers… and to my surprise, it turned out so good, I’ve been making it ever since.
If you’re looking for a fuss-free, one-pot meal that tastes like a cozy hug, this one’s for you.
Why Use a Rice Cooker for Chicken and Rice?
Rice cookers aren’t just for rice, they’re amazing at cooking entire one-pot meals. This recipe proves how versatile and reliable your rice cooker can be:
- No babysitting the stove
- Even cooking every time
- One pot = fewer dishes
- Great for small kitchens or dorm rooms
Honestly, once you try making chicken and rice in a rice cooker, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner!
Ingredients What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for this simple chicken and rice recipe made in a rice cooker:
Basic Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water with 1 bouillon cube)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas or corn
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika or chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp cooking oil or butter
Optional Add-ons:
- 1/2 tsp turmeric for color
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
- A squeeze of lemon juice for freshness
How to Cook Chicken and Rice in a Rice Cooker
This is a dump-and-go style recipe. Once everything’s in the rice cooker, it does all the work for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics (Optional)
If your rice cooker has a sauté or “cook” function, heat the oil and lightly sauté chopped onions and garlic until fragrant (about 2–3 minutes). This step adds more depth to the flavor.
Step 2: Add the Ingredients
Add the chicken, rinsed rice, chopped carrots, peas (or corn), soy sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything gently to combine.
Step 3: Start Cooking
Close the lid and set your rice cooker to the regular “White Rice” or “Cook” setting. Let it run its full cycle. Most rice cookers will cook this meal in 30 to 40 minutes.
Step 4: Let it Sit
Once the rice cooker switches to “Warm,” let the rice sit for an additional 10 minutes before opening the lid. This allows the rice to absorb the flavors fully.
Step 5: Fluff and Serve
Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with parsley or green onions, and serve warm!
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Rice
- Rinse your rice: Always rinse rice until the water runs clear. It prevents sticky, mushy results.
- Cut the chicken into small Bite-sized pieces cook faster and more evenly.
- Use broth for flavor: Chicken broth adds much more depth than plain water.
- Veggie swaps: You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for variety.
- Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or a bit of hot sauce if you like heat.
Variations You Can Try
Want to change things up? Here are a few popular versions of this dish:
1. Creamy Chicken and Rice
Stir in 1/4 cup of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese after cooking for a richer, creamier texture.
2. Asian-Inspired Chicken and Rice
Use jasmine rice, add a dash of sesame oil, and top with toasted sesame seeds.
3. Mexican-Style Chicken and Rice
Add cumin, paprika, and canned tomatoes or salsa before cooking. Top with shredded cheese and cilantro.
4. Garlic Butter Chicken Rice
Use butter instead of oil, and double the garlic for a savory and aromatic flavor.
Cooking Time and Servings
| Component | Time |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Resting Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
Serves: 3–4 people
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Please note: These values are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients used.
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
FAQ – Chicken and Rice in Rice Cooker
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but it takes longer to cook. Use more broth (about 2.5 cups) and extend the cooking time.
Do I need to pre-cook the chicken?
No. The chicken cooks perfectly in the rice cooker with the rice.
Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s better to thaw it first for even cooking and food safety.
Conclusion
This chicken and rice in rice cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or meal prep. It’s wholesome, flexible, and super satisfying. You don’t need multiple pans or complicated steps, just toss it all in and let your rice cooker do the magic.
Give it a try and enjoy the simplicity of one-pot cooking!
