Chicken Rice Veggie Recipe for a Healthy Quick Meal

When it comes to a wholesome, flavorful, and colorful meal, a chicken rice veggie recipe hits all the right notes. This dish is a fantastic blend of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables, offering a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and nutrients in every bite.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a satisfying lunch, this recipe is both easy to make and incredibly delicious. The best part?

It’s customizable to suit your taste and the veggies you have on hand. From the first sizzling pan to the final sprinkle of herbs, this meal promises comfort and nourishment wrapped up in one bowl.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through every step, share equipment tips, and offer variations to keep this recipe exciting. Plus, you’ll find some handy nutrition facts and serving ideas to make this dish your new go-to.

Ready to dive into a deliciously balanced meal? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken rice veggie recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile — perfect for using up leftover vegetables or adapting to seasonal produce.

The balance of lean protein from the chicken and fiber-rich veggies makes it a nutritious one-pot meal that fuels your body without weighing you down.

It’s also a time-saver! With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a flavorful, satisfying meal on the table in under 40 minutes.

Plus, the vibrant colors and textures make it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. This recipe is ideal for meal prepping, family dinners, or impressing guests with a wholesome homemade dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for added umami)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Small bowl for seasoning mix
• Rice cooker (optional, if you prefer cooking rice separately)

Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop all your vegetables.
2. Season the chicken: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in this seasoning mix to coat evenly.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. Sauté the aromatics and veggies: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Reduce heat to medium, then add the onion and garlic. Cook until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Next, stir in the red bell pepper, carrot, and broccoli. Cook for another 5 minutes until veggies are slightly tender.
5. Add rice and broth: Stir the rinsed rice into the vegetables, coating it with the oil and cooking for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and add the frozen peas (if using). Give everything a good stir to combine.
6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
7. Return chicken to pan: Once the rice is cooked, gently fold the cooked chicken back into the skillet. If using soy sauce, drizzle it over now and stir to combine. Let everything warm through for 2-3 minutes.
8. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For an extra flavor boost, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving to brighten the entire dish.”

• Substitute brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, but expect a longer cooking time (about 40-45 minutes).
• Swap chicken breasts with thighs for juicier, richer meat.
• Add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or snap peas based on your preference or seasonal availability.
• For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or serve with a side of your favorite hot sauce.
• Make it a one-pot meal by using an Instant Pot or slow cooker; adjust cooking times accordingly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chicken rice veggie dish pairs wonderfully with fresh side salads or steamed greens for a light and balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside warm flatbreads or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add creaminess and a cooling contrast.

For a heartier option, accompany the dish with roasted sweet potatoes or a simple cucumber and tomato salad tossed in olive oil and lemon. Leftovers reheat well, making this recipe perfect for meal prep and quick lunches.

If you’re interested in exploring more delicious and nutritious recipes, check out these favorites on our site: Asian Vegetarian Rice Bowl Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals, Chicken Veg Salad Recipe Easy and Healthy Meal Ideas, and Chinese Non Veg Recipes Video For Easy Delicious Meals.

Conclusion

This chicken rice veggie recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition. It offers convenience without sacrificing taste, making it an excellent choice for busy home cooks who want a healthy dinner on the table fast.

The versatility of this dish means you can adapt it endlessly—whether by switching up the veggies, adding spices, or trying different cooking methods. It’s a recipe that’s not only delicious but also nourishing and comforting.

Give it a try, and you may find it becoming a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

For more creative and healthful meal ideas, explore our extensive collection of recipes such as 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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