Chicken Rice and Spinach Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

Looking for a wholesome, comforting meal that’s both nutritious and simple to prepare? This Chicken Rice and Spinach recipe is exactly what you need.

Combining tender, juicy chicken with fluffy rice and vibrant spinach, it’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners. The spinach not only adds a pop of color but also packs in essential vitamins and minerals, making this meal as healthy as it is delicious.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe offers straightforward steps and easy-to-find ingredients. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite spices or add-ins.

From the first bite, you’ll appreciate the balance of flavors and textures that come together in this delightful dish. Ready to cook up something satisfying?

Let’s dive into this tasty chicken, rice, and spinach adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Rice and Spinach recipe stands out because it’s:

• Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and greens, it supports a balanced diet.
• One-pot convenience: Minimal cleanup required—everything cooks together for maximum flavor.
• Flavorful: A harmonious blend of garlic, herbs, and spices that bring the dish to life.
• Adaptable: Easily modified to suit dietary preferences or available ingredients.
• Perfect for meal prep: Makes great leftovers that reheat beautifully for lunches or dinners.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 2 1/4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Juice of half a lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Rice rinsing bowl or fine mesh sieve
• Ladle or serving spoon

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides but not fully cooked through.
4. Add the rice: Stir in the rinsed rice, coating it in the oil and spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the rice slightly, enhancing its flavor.
5. Pour in the broth: Carefully add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.
6. Simmer: Let everything cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. This allows the rice to absorb the broth and the chicken to cook fully.
7. Add the spinach: After 15 minutes, uncover and stir in the chopped spinach. Cover again and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts and is tender.
8. Finish the dish: Remove from heat and squeeze the lemon juice over the top. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For juicier chicken, use thighs instead of breasts—they stay tender and absorb flavors better.

• Rice options: Substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a nuttier texture and extra fiber. Keep in mind cooking times will increase.
• Vegetable add-ins: Feel free to stir in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas along with the spinach for added color and nutrients.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you prefer a little heat.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a tablespoon of cream cheese after cooking for a rich, creamy finish.
• Meal prep tip: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chicken rice and spinach dish is satisfying on its own, but you can elevate your meal with a few complementary sides. Here are some ideas:

• Serve with a crisp cucumber and tomato salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
• Pair with warm, crusty bread to soak up any remaining juices.
• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki on the side for a creamy, cooling element.
• Complement with steamed or roasted vegetables such as carrots, green beans, or asparagus.

For more delicious rice-based meals, check out my Brown Rice Recipe VegRecipesOfIndia: Easy & Healthy Meals or try a flavorful twist with Best Vegetable Curry Recipe for Rice That Tastes Amazing. If you love greens in your meals, you might enjoy the Best Vegan Kale Dip Recipe for Easy Healthy Snacking as an appetizer or side.

Conclusion

This Chicken Rice and Spinach recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. It strikes the perfect balance between hearty and healthy, delivering a meal that’s rich in flavor and nutrients without demanding hours in the kitchen.

The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant spinach makes for a satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is adaptable and straightforward. It also pairs well with a variety of sides and can be customized to suit your tastes.

Give it a try and enjoy a nourishing meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to make!

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