Rice with vegetables and chicken breast

Rice with Vegetables and Chicken Breast

If you're looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe, rice with vegetables and chicken breast is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to adapt the ingredients to your taste. The rich flavor of the chicken, combined with fresh vegetables and fluffy rice, will transport you to a world of aromas and textures. Here’s how to prepare this savory dish step by step.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- ½ chicken breast (approximately 250g)
- 150g long rice
- ½ bell pepper
- 1 carrot
- 1 onion
- 1 medium tomato
- 1 potato
- 1 small bunch of fresh parsley
- 50ml sunflower oil or olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Water or chicken broth

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the chicken breast well under running cold water. Cut it into medium-sized cubes. This step is essential as it helps the meat cook evenly. In a pot, bring water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Add one-third of the chicken cubes and let them boil for 10-15 minutes until they turn white. This step will give the meat a richer flavor.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the chicken is boiling, peel the onion, carrot, bell pepper, and potato. Cut the onion and bell pepper into small cubes, and cut the carrot in half – one part into cubes and the other grated. The grated part will add natural sweetness and a pleasant texture to the dish.

3. Heating the oil: In a deep frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the remaining chicken (two-thirds) and the grated carrot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the chicken changes color and becomes slightly browned.

4. Adding the vegetables and rice: Now add the onion, bell pepper, cubed carrot, and potato to the pan. Mix well and let the vegetables sauté with the chicken for 5 minutes. Then, add the washed rice, stirring to combine it with the other ingredients.

5. Baking: After a few minutes, when all the ingredients are well mixed, add enough chicken broth (or water) to cover everything, about 400ml. Bring everything to a boil, then transfer the mixture to a heat-resistant dish. I recommend preheating the oven to 180°C. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the rice absorbs all the water and becomes fluffy.

6. Finishing the dish: When the rice is ready, remove the dish from the oven and take off the foil. Add the finely chopped parsley on top and gently mix to add a fresh note. You can add a bit of salt or pepper to taste.

Serving: This rice with vegetables and chicken breast is delicious served warm, alongside a fresh green salad or pickles for a pleasant contrast. A bottle of white wine or iced tea makes excellent accompaniments for this meal.

Useful tips:
- If you want a spicier version, you can add a few slices of chili or spices like paprika or curry.
- You can replace the chicken breast with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Substitute the potato with zucchini or eggplant to experiment with different textures and flavors.
- Taste the dish before taking it out of the oven; if you feel it needs more salt or spices, now is the perfect time to adjust.

Calories: A serving of rice with vegetables and chicken breast has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and additional ingredients added. It is a nutritious dish, rich in protein and vegetables, offering a balanced meal.

Nutritional benefits:
- Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, beneficial for muscle development and maintaining health.
- Long rice is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy.
- Vegetables add essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use basmati rice or round-grain rice?
Yes, you can use any type of rice, but the cooking time may vary, so make sure to follow the instructions on the package.

2. What other vegetables can I add to the recipe?
You can add peas, corn, mushrooms, or zucchini, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I store leftovers?
The dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in airtight containers. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

4. Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is a healthy and tasty recipe, perfect for the whole family. You can adjust the spices according to the preferences of the little ones.

So, be creative and enjoy cooking! Rice with vegetables and chicken breast is not just a simple dish, but an opportunity to experiment with ingredients and bring family and friends together around the table. Enjoy your meal!