Are you craving a comforting, flavourful, and incredibly easy meal? Look no further! This Chicken Rice recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a delicious dish, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. Best of all, this recipe is completely Halal, ensuring a wholesome and satisfying meal for everyone. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike – let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (Halal certified)
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade for a richer flavour)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, coriander, cumin, and turmeric. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. This simple step elevates the taste considerably!
Sautéing Aromatics:
- Heat the sesame oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Cooking the Chicken:
- Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. This will ensure a delicious, crispy exterior.
Simmering and Adding Rice:
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Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
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Gently stir in the rinsed basmati rice. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed in the liquid. Increase the heat to medium-high, bring back to a boil, then immediately reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Tips for the Best Chicken Rice:
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavour of your dish greatly depends on the freshness and quality of your ingredients.
- Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice will be mushy. Follow the cooking time closely and check for doneness.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, spices, or salt and pepper to your preference.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include sliced carrots, peas, or bell peppers along with the chicken for a more nutritious and colorful meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Citrus Burst: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the finished dish for a zesty finish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 4-serving recipe and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
This healthy meal is a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights. Serve your delicious Chicken Rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete and balanced meal. Enjoy!