One-Pan Garlic Chicken & Rice for One (48g Protein, Under $4 | 30 Minutes)
A juicy, flavorful one-pan garlic chicken and rice dinner built for one. Ready in 30 minutes, under $4, and packed with 48g of protein. The ultimate budget-friendly solo dinner recipe.
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken: Pat 150 grams chicken breast dry. Season both sides with 0.5 teaspoons paprika, 0.5 teaspoons garlic powder, 0.5 teaspoons salt, and 0.3 teaspoons black pepper.
- Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoons olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the garlic & rice: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add 3 garlic cloves (minced) and cook for 30 seconds
- Add 80 grams white rice (uncooked) and stir to coat in the pan juices.
- Simmer: Pour in 200 milliliters chicken broth (or water) and bring to a boil. Place the seared chicken on top, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes until rice is cooked and chicken is fully cooked through.
- Rest & serve: Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes
- Garnish with 1 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional) and 1 lemon slice (optional) if using. Serve directly from the pan.
Notes
Use chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor at minimal cost. Chicken thighs work great here too and are often cheaper than breast. Estimated cost: ~$3.60.
