Looking for a simple, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful meal that you can whip up in no time? This one-pan chicken and rice recipe is so delicious and easy, you’ll want to make it again and again. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hello to your new favorite go-to meal!
Ingredients
- 1 large cup rice (200g / 7 oz)
- 2 cups hot water (500 ml / 17 fl oz)
- 2 chicken breasts (about 400g / 14 oz)
- 1 large onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 large red bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
- 1 tsp turmeric (4g / 0.14 oz)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (30 ml / 1 fl oz)
- 2 tbsp butter (28g / 1 oz)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the rice and stir to coat it in the butter. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously.
- Dissolve the chicken bouillon cube in the hot water.
- Pour the hot bouillon mixture over the rice.
- Stir, then cover the pot with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook until all the water is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
- While the rice is cooking, dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and turmeric.
- In a separate large skillet or pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken pieces and lightly fry them until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Add the chopped onion, carrot, and red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 more minute, until fragrant.
- Stir the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
- Let the mixture cook for another 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Time, Serving & Nutrition
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Serves: 4
- Nutrition (approximate per serving): This dish is a good source of protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the rice, and vitamins from the vegetables. It’s a balanced and satisfying meal.
Why This Recipe Is Good
This chicken and rice recipe is a perfect example of a balanced and wholesome meal. It’s packed with lean protein from the chicken, which is essential for muscle health, and provides complex carbohydrates from the rice for sustained energy. The colorful vegetables like carrots and red bell peppers are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, boosting the nutritional value of the dish. The use of turmeric not only adds a beautiful golden color but also brings a host of anti-inflammatory benefits. All cooked in a single pan, this recipe is not only delicious and healthy but also incredibly convenient for a busy lifestyle.