Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen, slaving over complicated recipes? Do you crave delicious, healthy meals but feel short on time? Then this TikTok-famous rice hack is your new best friend! This one-pan wonder combines juicy chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and vibrant vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal, all ready in under 30 minutes. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights and a fantastic example of how simple, homemade cooking can be both quick and incredibly tasty. Get ready to elevate your quick dinner ideas with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the chicken and vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe 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. Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Bake to perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer on the stovetop. Then, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake, covered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. If you prefer a crispier top, uncover the skillet for the last 5 minutes of baking.
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Garnish and serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This delicious dish is a perfect example of healthy meals made easy.
Cooking Tips for the Best Rice Hack:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding it to the skillet. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
- Use good quality broth: Chicken broth adds a significant amount of flavor to the dish. Consider using homemade broth for an even more intense flavor.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to your preference. A dash of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Rice Hack: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Rice Hack: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a brighter, more aromatic dish.
- Cheesy Rice Hack: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40g
This easy recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can make without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a complete meal, packed with protein and vegetables – perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a simple, satisfying lunch. Enjoy!