Are you dreaming of a delicious and healthy dinner that requires minimal effort? Then look no further! This chicken and brown rice crock pot recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple, wholesome meal packed with flavor, perfect for a quick dinner, and healthy enough to be part of your weekly meal plan. Forget complicated recipes and enjoy the ease of homemade cooking with this unbelievably simple, yet satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup brown rice, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
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Prep the ingredients: Rinse the brown rice thoroughly under cold water. Chop the onion and carrots. Mince the garlic. If using, lightly sauté the onion and carrots in olive oil for a few minutes before adding to the crock pot for enhanced flavor.
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Layer in the crock pot: Place the chicken pieces at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the rinsed brown rice, chopped vegetables (onion, carrots), minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary on top of the chicken.
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Add the broth: Pour the chicken broth evenly over the ingredients. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Check the liquid level halfway through cooking; if it seems too dry, add a little more chicken broth or water.
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Stir in peas: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. This prevents them from becoming mushy.
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Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve immediately. This dish is incredibly versatile; you can serve it as is, or add a dollop of plain yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zing.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rinse your rice: Rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch and prevents it from becoming sticky.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add other herbs and spices, such as parsley, oregano, or paprika, to customize the flavor.
- Add vegetables: Get creative with your vegetables! Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
Delicious Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the crock pot along with the other ingredients.
- Spicy Chicken and Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Chicken and Wild Rice: Substitute wild rice for brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
- Fat: Approximately 5-10g
This easy chicken and brown rice crock pot recipe is perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal any day of the week. Its versatility allows you to adapt it to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a true staple in your easy recipes collection. Enjoy this delicious dish!