Rice with vegetables and chicken meat

Recipe for Rice with Vegetables and Chicken Thighs: A Quick and Satisfying Treat

When it comes to cooking, sometimes we crave something delicious that doesn't take too much time. Rice with vegetables and chicken thighs is the perfect recipe for those days when we don't feel like spending much time in the kitchen but want a dish that warms our soul and fuels our energy. This recipe is simple, quick, and full of flavor, and the ingredients are easy to find, making it ideal for any home cook.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 200 g parboiled rice
- 200 g vegetables (carrot, cauliflower, peas, green beans)
- 3 green onions
- 3 boneless chicken thighs
- 2 teaspoons Delikat vegetable seasoning
- 40 ml sunflower or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (optional, to taste)

A bit of history
Rice with vegetables is a versatile dish that has its origins in various culinary cultures around the world. This simple recipe is adaptable and can take on different forms depending on the available ingredients. Rice, as a staple food, is appreciated not only for its taste but also for its nutritional value, being an important source of carbohydrates. Combined with vegetables and meat, it becomes a complete dish, ideal for a hearty meal.

Step by step: Your guide to perfect rice

1. Preparing the chicken thighs
To achieve tender and flavorful chicken, start by washing the thighs well under cold running water. Then, place them in a pot with water and a teaspoon of Delikat vegetable seasoning. This step will give them a special flavor. Boil for 15-20 minutes until cooked, but don’t overdo it since you’ll fry them later, and they will continue to cook. After boiling, remove them from the pot, let them cool slightly, and cut them into smaller pieces.

2. The vegetables
Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables. Wash and chop the desired vegetables. You can use carrots, cauliflower, peas, or green beans, all excellent vitamin-packed options. Finely chopped green onion will add extra flavor. In a pan, add the oil and sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes, then add the chopped vegetables. Continue to sauté over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a teaspoon of Delikat vegetable seasoning to enhance the flavors.

3. Cooking the rice
In a baking dish, add the parboiled rice. Use the water in which the chicken thighs were boiled — this will give the rice a rich flavor. Add 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt if desired. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 180°C. Let it bake for 20 minutes until the rice absorbs all the liquid.

4. Combining the ingredients
Once the vegetables are well sautéed and the rice is ready, remove the dish from the oven. Add the sautéed vegetables and chicken pieces to the rice. Gently mix to combine all the ingredients. You can check the taste and add salt if necessary.

5. Serving
Rice with vegetables and chicken thighs is delicious both warm and cold, so you can serve it immediately or let it cool for a quick meal later. It can be garnished with a little chopped fresh parsley for a more appealing look.

Practical tips:
- If you want to save even more time, you can use frozen vegetables, which cook quickly and are just as nutritious.
- Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Add spices like pepper, sweet paprika, or curry to give an extra flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. Parboiled rice is a good source of carbohydrates, offering long-lasting energy. In total, a serving of rice with vegetables and chicken thighs contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the exact quantities used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use regular rice instead of parboiled rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid.
2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers, depending on your preferences.
3. Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can store portions in airtight containers, and the dish will stay fresh for a few days in the refrigerator.

Delicious combinations:
For a complete meal, you can accompany this dish with a seasonal salad or a yogurt sauce with garlic. A refreshing drink, such as mint tea or a fruit smoothie, will perfectly complement the meal.

This rice with vegetables and chicken thighs recipe is not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile. Enjoy experimenting and adding your own variations! Cooking is not just a necessity but also a form of art, and every meal can become an opportunity to create something special. Bon appétit!