Chicken and rice is a classic dish that has stood the test of time, known for its simplicity and delicious flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving comfort food, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering balance of tender chicken and savory rice. With a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, chicken and rice will quickly become your go-to dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and turmeric. This will ensure a flavorful base for your dish.
- In a large pan or skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the rice to the pan, stirring for about 1-2 minutes to toast it lightly. This will help the rice absorb all the delicious flavors later.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cover the pan with a lid.
- Reduce the heat to low and cook the rice for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. If using frozen peas, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- While the rice is cooking, slice the cooked chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and stir in the sliced chicken. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the chicken and rice with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.