Chicken Breast with Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the simplicity and deliciousness of chicken breast served with fluffy rice.
This chicken breast with rice recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner option that is both nutritious and satisfying. The tender chicken is seasoned to perfection and pairs beautifully with fluffy rice.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
- Juicy chicken breast with a flavorful seasoning blend
- Comforting and filling, ideal for the whole family
A Perfect Weeknight Meal
Chicken Breast with Rice is the quintessential weeknight meal that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish allows you to whip up a satisfying dinner in no time. Whether you’re coming home from a long day at work or juggling family activities, this recipe ensures you can enjoy a home-cooked meal without extensive preparation.
Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also offers versatility. You can customize the chicken seasoning to suit your taste preferences or add vegetables to the rice for an extra nutritional boost. This adaptability makes it a fantastic option for families with varying tastes.
Nutrition and Comfort
Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, making this dish a healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Paired with rice, which provides carbohydrates for energy, this meal is both nourishing and filling. It’s perfect for athletes, busy professionals, or anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome dinner.
Moreover, this dish is inherently comforting. The warm, fluffy rice combined with juicy chicken creates a satisfying meal that can bring a sense of home and warmth to the dinner table. It’s a classic comfort food that evokes feelings of nostalgia, making it not just a meal, but a delightful experience.
Garnishing for Presentation
Presentation matters, even for simple meals! A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish. Fresh herbs can elevate your cooking by adding depth and brightness, making your meal look as good as it tastes.
Consider experimenting with other garnishes or sides. A squeeze of lemon or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can add an exciting twist to this classic dish. Additionally, serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad can create a well-rounded meal that impresses your family and guests alike.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups of rice
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can proceed to the cooking steps.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to prepare the chicken and rice.
Cook the Rice
In a pot, bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the broth is absorbed.
Prepare the Chicken
While the rice is cooking, season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Chicken
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through and no longer pink inside.
Serve
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Serve the chicken breasts over the rice, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your delicious chicken breast with rice!
Tips for Perfect Chicken
To ensure your chicken breasts remain juicy and flavorful, consider marinating them for at least 30 minutes before cooking. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs can infuse the chicken with additional flavor and moisture, making every bite irresistible.
Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. This not only prevents undercooking but also helps avoid overcooking, which can lead to dry chicken.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches. Just be sure to separate the chicken from the rice to maintain their textures.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the rice to keep it moist. Microwave it in intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This will help prevent the rice from drying out and keep your meal delicious even on the second day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, just adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad make great side dishes.
→ Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the rice ahead of time, then cook them when ready to serve.
→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and rice for up to 3 months. Just reheat before serving.
Chicken Breast with Rice
Savor the simplicity and deliciousness of chicken breast served with fluffy rice.
Created by: Kayla Monroe
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups of rice
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a pot, bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the broth is absorbed.
While the rice is cooking, season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through and no longer pink inside.
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Serve the chicken breasts over the rice, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 20g