This comforting and hearty dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and perfectly seasoned rice for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this one-pan recipe is both delicious and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder – Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet.
Full of Flavor – The combination of mushrooms, garlic, and seasonings infuses the rice with rich taste.
Hearty and Satisfying – Perfect for a cozy, filling meal that pleases the whole family.
Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to fit your dietary preferences.
Meal Prep Friendly – Stores and reheats well for busy schedules.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken thighs or breasts
Long-grain white rice
Mushrooms (such as cremini or button)
Chicken broth
Onion
Garlic
Olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper
Thyme or rosemary
Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Sear the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables – In the same pan, add onions, mushrooms, and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant.
Add the Rice – Stir in the rice and toast it for a minute to absorb the flavors.
Simmer – Pour in the chicken broth, add the chicken back to the pan, and bring to a boil.
Cover and Cook – Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Serve – Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use Brown Rice – Swap white rice for brown rice, but increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
Try Different Mushrooms – Shiitake or portobello mushrooms add unique flavors.
Make it Creamy – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
Add Vegetables – Peas, spinach, or bell peppers make great additions.
Spice it Up – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing – Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating – Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Use a non-stick pan and avoid stirring the rice too much while it cooks.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless thighs or breasts work well and cook slightly faster than bone-in options.

What type of mushrooms work best?

Cremini, button, or shiitake mushrooms all add great flavor to the dish.

Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?

Yes, sauté the ingredients first, then cook on high pressure for 8 minutes with a natural release.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What’s the best way to add extra protein?

Try adding shrimp, tofu, or an extra portion of chicken.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, but reduce the broth amount and cook for a shorter time to avoid mushy rice.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add a crunchy topping?

Yes, toasted almonds or crispy fried onions add great texture.

What’s a good side dish for this recipe?

A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables pair well with this meal.

Conclusion

Chicken and Rice with Mushrooms is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it to your liking, this easy one-pan meal is sure to become a favorite. Try it tonight for a comforting, homemade dinner!