Are you craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken Rice Green Bean recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and provides a fantastic balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a casual dinner party. Get ready to enjoy one of the best recipes you'll ever try!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb 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 green beans, trimmed and halved
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Cook the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine ingredients: Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer and add vegetables: Return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir in the green beans during the last 5 minutes of cooking time.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This delicious dish is perfect on its own, or you can pair it with a side salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcook the chicken; it should be cooked through but still juicy.
- If you prefer a creamier dish, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Broccoli, peas, or carrots would all be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken Rice Green Beans: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with your herbs for a bright and zesty twist.
- Spicy Chicken Rice Green Beans: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- One-Pan Wonder: For even easier cleanup, bake this dish in a single oven-safe skillet or baking dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fat: 10-15g
This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp green beans makes for a satisfying and flavorful dish that the whole family will enjoy. It's a perfect example of how delicious and healthy food can be simple to prepare! Enjoy!