Rice with vegetables and chicken breast

Rice with vegetables and chicken breast: a simple, tasty, and nutritious dish

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4

The history of the rice with vegetables and chicken breast recipe is lost in the mists of time, being a versatile dish that combines culinary traditions from various cultures. It is a meal that reflects the simplicity and richness of fresh ingredients, making it ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions. Today, I will share an easy-to-make recipe that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring a touch of joy to your kitchen.

Necessary ingredients:

- 300 g long-grain rice
- 400 g chicken breast
- 200 g vegetables (carrot, celery, parsnip, peas, green beans - choose your favorite combination)
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of hot paprika (optional, for an extra flavor)
- 1 cube of Maggi Bouillon (or another preferred seasoning)
- 40 ml oil for rice
- 40 ml oil for sautéing vegetables
- 100 ml oil for frying chicken breast

Step by step:

1. Preparing the rice: Start by washing the rice well under a cold water stream. This step is essential to remove excess starch, ensuring less sticky rice. Place the rice in a pot and add 40 ml of oil. Set the pot over medium heat and let the oil heat up.

2. Boiling the rice: When the oil is hot, add the washed rice and stir gently to coat it with oil. Add water, approximately 3-4 times the volume of the rice, and a cube of Maggi Bouillon for rich flavor. Let it simmer, covered, until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes soft.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, chop the green onions and desired vegetables into small cubes. In a separate pan, heat 40 ml of oil. Add the green onions and chopped vegetables. Sauté until slightly soft, but retain some crunch.

4. Assembling the dish: When the rice is almost cooked, add the sautéed vegetable mixture and mix well. Transfer everything to an oven-safe dish and bake at 180°C for 20-30 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to blend perfectly and create a delicious dish.

5. Preparing the chicken breast: Meanwhile, slice the chicken breast into thin strips. Season them with salt, pepper, and, if desired, a bit of hot paprika for a spicy flavor. Let them marinate for 10-20 minutes. In a deep pan, heat 100 ml of oil and fry the chicken strips until golden and crispy.

6. Finishing the dish: When the rice is ready, remove it from the oven and stir gently. Add the fried chicken breast on top and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. If you have children or family members who are not fans of green leaves, you can use the parsley only as a garnish.

Practical tips:

- Vegetables: You can use any combination of vegetables you like or have on hand. For example, bell peppers or zucchini can be added for extra color and nutrients.
- Rice: Choose long-grain rice to achieve a slightly fluffy texture. If you prefer, you can use brown rice for a healthier dish.
- Spices: Get creative with spices! You can add garlic or ginger for a stronger flavor. You can also use fresh or dried herbs, such as oregano or basil.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use basmati rice? Yes, basmati rice is an excellent choice for this recipe, giving it a distinct taste and aroma.
2. What other types of meat can I use? This recipe also works well with pork or turkey, depending on your preferences.
3. How can I make the recipe vegetarian? You can replace the chicken breast with tofu or add more vegetables to create a 100% vegetarian dish.
4. What are the nutritional benefits of this dish? Rice provides complex carbohydrates, chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, and vegetables bring essential vitamins and minerals.

Serving suggestions:

This rice with vegetables and chicken breast pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a garlic yogurt sauce. Additionally, for extra flavor, you can add a few slices of lemon or lime when serving.

In conclusion, the rice with vegetables and chicken breast recipe is not only a nutritious dish but also an excellent way to bring people together around the table. Whether it's a family dinner or a quick lunch, this versatile recipe will surely be appreciated by everyone. So, embrace the joy of cooking and experiment with ingredients and spices until you find the perfect combination for you and your loved ones!