Are you looking for a simple, healthy, and delicious weeknight dinner that requires minimal cleanup? Look no further! This Chicken and Rice Rice Cooker recipe is your answer. It's a perfect example of how easy homemade cooking can be, delivering a satisfying and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, making it a staple for quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Forget complicated recipes – this one is incredibly easy, even for beginner cooks.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) – optional
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your dish.
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Brown the chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until lightly browned on all sides. This helps to seal in the juices and creates a richer flavor.
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Combine in the rice cooker: Transfer the sautéed chicken and onions to your rice cooker. Add the rice, chicken broth, frozen vegetables (if using), oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
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Cook: Close the lid of your rice cooker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions for cooking rice. This usually takes about 30-40 minutes.
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Rest and fluff: Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the chicken and rice rest in the rice cooker for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork. This allows the rice to absorb any excess liquid and creates a perfect texture.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This delicious and easy dish is perfect on its own or paired with a side salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken and Rice:
- Use good quality chicken broth: This significantly impacts the overall flavor of the dish. Consider using homemade chicken broth for an even richer taste.
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Ensure it's cooked through but still juicy and tender.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor combination.
Variations:
- Add different vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Citrus zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or lime zest for a bright, refreshing flavor.
- Creamy chicken and rice: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
This simple chicken and rice recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes you can create without complex cooking techniques. Enjoy this healthy, flavorful, and convenient meal!