Easy Chicken and Spinach Rice Skillet That Wows Every Time

Discover the easy chicken and spinach rice skillet that wows every time with simple ingredients and big flavor. Ready in one pan—perfect for busy nights.

Why You’ll Love It

This easy chicken and spinach rice skillet that wows every time is your go-to for a quick, delicious meal that comes together in just one pan. The combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and fluffy rice creates a balanced dish full of flavor and nutrients. Perfect for weeknights when you want something comforting without the fuss. Plus, cooking it all in one skillet means less cleanup.

Not only is this recipe simple, but it also lends itself to plenty of variations and makes for excellent leftovers. You’ll find yourself coming back to this skillet recipe again and again.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, bite-sized pieces (substitute chicken breast if preferred)
• 1 cup long grain white rice (try brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist)
• 2 cups chicken broth (vegetable broth for a lighter version)
• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped (kale or Swiss chard can be used)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds depth)
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and thoroughly cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
4. Add rice to the skillet and stir to coat it well with the oil, onions, and garlic.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 15 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
6. Stir fresh chopped spinach into the skillet and cook just until wilted.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Heat through for 2-3 minutes before serving.
8. Optional: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the dish for extra flavor.

Expert Tips

To know when the chicken is done, look for no pink inside and juices running clear. Use a food thermometer for accuracy—165°F is safe. For fluffy rice, avoid lifting the lid during cooking. Fresh spinach wilts quickly, so add it last. You can make this dish ahead; just store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Scaling up? Double the ingredients but use a larger skillet or a deep pan to avoid overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.

Storage

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in a sealed container. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Variations

• Vegan: Replace chicken with cubed tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth. Omit Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you confirm your broth contains no gluten.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free substitute.
• Refined-Sugar-Free: This dish contains no added sugars and uses whole ingredients.

FAQ

What makes the easy chicken and spinach rice skillet that wows every time so special?

Its simplicity combined with balanced flavor and minimal cleanup makes this skillet recipe stand out. It’s packed with protein, veggies, and carbs in a single pan.

Can I use brown rice for this recipe?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly and monitor tenderness.

Is it okay to substitute spinach with other greens?

Absolutely! Kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula can be great alternatives with slightly different textures and flavors.

How can I make this meal spicier?

Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking to increase the heat level to your liking.

Can this recipe be meal prepped?

Yes, this dish stores well and can be portioned into containers for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Call to Action

Love this easy chicken and spinach rice skillet that wows every time? Leave a comment below with your thoughts, rate the recipe, and share it with friends! Don’t forget to check out other Easy Weeknight Dinners for more fuss-free meals. For cooking inspiration, visit Food Network.