Best Chicken Rice and Vegetable Recipe for Easy Meals

If you’re craving a wholesome, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, look no further than this best chicken rice and vegetable recipe. It’s an all-in-one dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with fluffy rice and a vibrant medley of garden-fresh vegetables.

Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, this recipe balances simplicity with rich, satisfying taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, the step-by-step instructions will guide you to a delicious, well-rounded meal that the entire family will love.

Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your taste preferences or whatever veggies you have on hand. Get ready to enjoy a colorful plate full of protein, fiber, and wholesome goodness!

In this recipe, the chicken is perfectly seared to lock in juices, while the rice absorbs all the savory flavors from the broth and spices. The vegetables add texture, color, and essential vitamins, making this dish as nutritious as it is delicious.

Stay tuned for tips on how to make it even better, and some tasty variations to keep things exciting in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, yet the result tastes like a gourmet meal.

It’s also nutritionally balanced, combining lean protein, complex carbs, and fresh vegetables in one pot.

Another highlight is its flexibility. You can swap vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference, and adjust spices to make it milder or more robust.

Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep — it reheats beautifully and retains flavor and texture.

Finally, this dish is budget-friendly without sacrificing quality or taste, making it ideal for families, students, or anyone looking for a satisfying homemade dinner. If you enjoy hearty rice dishes, don’t miss our Asian Vegetarian Rice Bowl Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals that also incorporate vibrant veggies and wholesome grains.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas (or fresh if available)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 tsp chili powder for a mild kick

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander or fine mesh sieve (for rinsing rice)
• Small bowl for seasoning the chicken

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: In a small bowl, toss the chicken pieces with paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the vegetables.
2. Heat the olive oil: Place your skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown on all sides but not fully cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken for extra flavor.
4. Add the vegetables: Stir in the diced carrot, red bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften but remain vibrant and slightly crisp.
5. Combine rice and broth: Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir to coat the grains with the oil and vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
6. Return chicken to the pan: Nestle the partially cooked chicken pieces back into the rice mixture and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.
7. Simmer gently: Reduce heat to low and let everything cook undisturbed for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to retain steam.
8. Finish with peas: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the frozen peas on top and gently stir them in once the rice is cooked.
9. Rest and fluff: Remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice gently with a fork and adjust seasoning if necessary.
10. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.”

Here are some ways to customize this recipe to your liking:

• Vegetable swaps: Use zucchini, mushrooms, or green beans if you prefer other veggies or want to use what’s in your fridge.
• Spice it up: Add 1 tsp of the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan for a smoky, spicy twist.
• Rice alternatives: Brown rice or quinoa can be used, but adjust cooking times and liquid accordingly.
• One-pot convenience: For an even easier cleanup, use a deep skillet or Dutch oven to cook everything together from start to finish.
• Meal prep friendly: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to keep rice fluffy.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chicken rice and vegetable dish is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate your meal with a few simple sides:

• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to add freshness
• Warm naan bread or crusty baguette for dipping into the flavorful broth
• A dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for a cool, creamy contrast

For those who love plant-based meals, check out our Chicken and Roasted Veg Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals that offer comforting, vegetable-packed alternatives.

Conclusion

This best chicken rice and vegetable recipe is the perfect meal for anyone seeking a nutritious, flavorful, and fuss-free dinner. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables creates a well-balanced plate that satisfies hunger and nourishes your body.

With its adaptable nature, you can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or what’s available in your kitchen, making it a versatile staple for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Cooking this recipe will boost your confidence in the kitchen and reward you with a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. Don’t forget to explore more inspiring recipes to expand your culinary repertoire, including our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Happy cooking!

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