Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This Black Rice Chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a delightful twist on traditional chicken and rice. The deep, nutty flavor of black rice pairs beautifully with tender chicken, creating a satisfying and visually appealing meal that's sure to become a family favorite. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner cooks, yet impressive enough for a dinner party. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup black rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Rinse the black rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and promotes even cooking.
Cook the chicken:
- Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables:
- Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the bell pepper and broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp.
Combine and simmer:
- Stir in the black rice, chicken broth, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Finish the dish:
- Stir in the cooked chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Black Rice Chicken:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcook the chicken; it should be cooked through but still juicy.
- If the rice seems dry before the 45 minutes are up, add a splash more chicken broth.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots, peas, or mushrooms, to customize this recipe.
Variations:
- Spicy Black Rice Chicken: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for a spicier kick.
- Lemon Black Rice Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the dish during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Black Rice Chicken with Peanut Sauce: Stir in a peanut sauce made from peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and lime juice at the end.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate suggests this dish is a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific ingredients and quantities used in your recipe.
This Black Rice Chicken recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that don’t compromise on taste. It’s a delicious, nutritious, and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. Enjoy!