Chicken Rice and Veg Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals

Looking for a wholesome, comforting meal that’s simple to prepare yet packed with flavor? This Chicken Rice and Veg Recipe is just what you need!

Combining tender, juicy chicken with fluffy, fragrant rice and vibrant vegetables, this dish offers a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is versatile, satisfying, and kid-friendly.

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies without compromising on taste.

With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels. The colorful medley of vegetables not only adds visual appeal but also boosts the nutritional value, making this dish a nutritious, all-in-one meal.

If you love recipes that are straightforward, delicious, and nourishing, keep reading to discover how you can whip up this fantastic chicken rice and veg dish in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true kitchen staple because it hits all the marks: quick preparation, balanced nutrition, and bold flavors. The chicken is tender and seasoned to perfection, while the rice absorbs all the savory juices and aromas.

The vegetable mix adds crunch, color, and a healthy dose of vitamins.

Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable. You can swap veggies based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge.

It’s also a great base recipe to build on if you want to try different spices or add extras like nuts or dried fruits for texture and taste.

If you enjoy recipes like this, you might also want to check out some of our other favorites such as Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals or the Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners that bring a fresh twist to vegetable-based dishes.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb, cubed)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
• 2 cups chicken broth (for cooking rice, can substitute with vegetable broth)
• 1 medium carrot (diced)
• 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Medium saucepan (for rice, if cooking separately)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander or strainer (for rinsing rice)

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This helps achieve fluffy rice.
2. Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes (or according to package instructions) until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
3. Cook the chicken: While the rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the cubed chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the diced carrot, red bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
5. Combine chicken and veggies: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir well to combine and warm through for 2 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Mix with rice: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and add it to the skillet. Gently mix everything together until well combined and heated throughout.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your wholesome chicken rice and veg meal!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs before cooking.

You can easily customize this recipe by swapping the vegetables. Try adding zucchini, peas, or green beans for variety.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or serve with hot sauce on the side.

If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or a frozen vegetable mix like the California Blend Veggies Recipes for Quick Healthy Meal to speed up the cooking process.

Want a creamy twist? Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a tablespoon of Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes at the end.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken rice and veg dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a light cucumber yogurt dip. For a heartier meal, serve alongside warm flatbread or garlic bread.

If you want to make it a family-style feast, consider adding a side of roasted potatoes or a bowl of soup, such as our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.

For an international twist, serve it with a drizzle of soy sauce or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to give it an Asian flair. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

This Chicken Rice and Veg Recipe is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious meal that fits perfectly into any home cook’s repertoire. Its simplicity makes it approachable for beginners, yet the layers of flavor and texture will satisfy the most discerning palates.

The combination of juicy chicken, savory rice, and vibrant vegetables creates a balanced and filling dish that can be enjoyed year-round.

Whether you’re looking to make a quick weeknight dinner or prepping meals ahead for the week, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Don’t forget to explore similar vegetable-packed recipes like the Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or the Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious for more inspiration.

Happy cooking!

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