Are you looking for quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and healthy? Do you want to expand your homemade cooking repertoire with easy recipes? Look no further! This recipe for ground chicken and rice is a fantastic option, packed with flavor and incredibly versatile. It's perfect for busy weeknights and easily adaptable to suit various tastes. This simple dish is a celebration of wholesome ingredients, offering a satisfying and nutritious meal the whole family will love. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Brown the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), rice, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer until rice is cooked: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
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Serve and enjoy: Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This easy recipe is perfect on its own or served with a side salad.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Experiment with different spices to find your perfect blend.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Use different rice: Experiment with brown rice or wild rice for a nutritious twist. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
- Boost the protein: Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber. This makes it an even heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. A typical serving will contain approximately:
- Calories: 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fat: 10-12g
This recipe offers a great way to incorporate healthy meals into your weekly routine. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a perfect choice for beginner cooks while still offering delicious results that will satisfy even experienced food enthusiasts searching for the best recipes. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and creating your own signature dish!