Chicken with vegetables, curry, and rice

Chicken with Vegetables, Curry and Rice: A Quick and Tasty Delight

I invite you to discover a fantastic recipe that combines the rich flavors of curry with the juiciness of chicken and the perfect texture of rice. This main dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for family dinners or meals with friends.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1000 g boneless chicken thighs (preferably from breast or upper thighs)
- 1 yellow onion
- 50 ml olive oil
- 2 bell peppers (red or yellow)
- 1 carrot
- 1 cup rice (approximately 200 g)
- 3 cups water (approximately 750 ml)
- Iodized salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons curry powder (depending on preference)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Vegetables:
Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion, carrot, and bell peppers. These vegetables will not only add a wonderful flavor to the dish but also a vibrant color. Additionally, bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin C.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Then, add the chopped vegetables along with a tablespoon of water. This trick will help the vegetables cook evenly and prevent burning. Sauté the mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become soft and slightly translucent.

3. Add the Chicken Thighs:
Once the vegetables have softened, add the chicken thighs to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and curry powder. These spices will enhance the flavor of the dish and provide an exotic note. Cook over high heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Incorporating the Rice:
After the chicken has started to brown, add the rice. Make sure to rinse it well beforehand to remove excess starch. This step is essential for achieving fluffy rice that won't stick together. Then, add the 3 cups of water and stir gently.

5. Final Cooking:
Once the water begins to boil, cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the dish to simmer gently for about 30 minutes. It is important not to lift the lid during this time to let the steam help cook the rice.

6. Serving:
After the cooking time is up, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. This step will allow the rice to absorb any remaining moisture and make the grains even fluffier. Serve the dish warm, alongside a fresh seasonal salad for a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical Tips:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as peas or zucchini, to diversify the recipe. These will not only beautify the plate but also bring additional nutritional benefits.
- If you like a spicier taste, you can add a bit of chili pepper or even chili sauce.
- Substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier dish with higher fiber content.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe has a moderate calorie content, estimated at 450-500 calories per serving, depending on the exact amount of oil and type of meat used. It offers quality protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the rice, and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. It is a balanced meal, perfect for a nourishing dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it is completely thawed before adding it to the skillet.

2. Can I adapt this recipe for a vegetarian diet?
Sure! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the flavor.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
We recommend a dry white wine or jasmine tea, which will complement the flavors of the curry.

A Personal Note:
This chicken with vegetables, curry, and rice recipe is one of my family's favorites. I remember how every Sunday evening, my grandmother would prepare this simple yet flavorful dish and gather us all at the table. It is more than just a recipe; it is a memory, a tradition that connects us. I hope it becomes a comforting dish for you too!

Try this recipe today and enjoy its wonderful flavors! Bon appétit!