Are you craving a comforting yet healthy meal that's quick to prepare? Look no further! This Rice Chicken Peas recipe is a perfect example of a delicious and nutritious dish that's easy enough for beginner cooks and satisfying enough for seasoned home chefs. It's packed with flavor, protein, and fiber – making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch. This recipe is a testament to how simple homemade cooking can be, resulting in a truly satisfying and flavorful meal. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven 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 builds a delicious base for the entire dish.
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Brown the chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pot; you may need to do this in batches to ensure the chicken browns properly.
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Add spices and chickpeas: Stir in the cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aromas. Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas and stir to combine.
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Combine rice and broth: Add the rice and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the 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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Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. This vibrant green adds a fresh element to the dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Rice Chicken Peas:
- For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini, along with the onions.
- For a heartier meal, add some chopped spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Rice Chicken Peas: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Spicy Rice Chicken Peas: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Coconut Rice Chicken Peas: Substitute coconut milk for some of the chicken broth for a creamy and flavorful twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fiber: 8-10g
This Rice Chicken Peas recipe is a perfect example of a healthy and delicious meal that doesn't require extensive cooking skills or time. It’s a versatile dish, easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!