Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that's not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare? Look no further than this mouthwatering "Chicken with Rice and Vegetables" recipe! In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor and packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking to impress their taste buds without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Dive in and discover how simple it is to create a comforting and satisfying dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the chicken breast into uniform 1-inch cubes, measuring out the rice, and chopping mixed vegetables if they are not pre-cut.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pieces are golden brown and cooked through with no pink remaining in the center.
- Remove cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside on a clean plate, keeping warm.
- In the same skillet, add mixed vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften slightly.
- Add rice to the skillet and stir to combine with vegetables, toasting the rice for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine rice, vegetables, and broth evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet, gently folding it into the rice and vegetable mixture.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, dividing the chicken, rice, and vegetable mixture evenly among four plates.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, consider prepping your ingredients in advance. Dice the chicken and chop the vegetables the night before, so you can quickly throw everything together after a long day.
- Choose Your Vegetables: Feel free to customize the mixed vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini can make great additions!
- Don’t Skip the Toasting: Toasting the rice with the vegetables before adding the broth enhances its flavor and gives it a delightful nutty aroma.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking that there is no pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer if needed; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together, making every bite even more delicious.
- Garnish for Flair: Consider garnishing your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
