Looking for a warm and comforting dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare? Look no further than this delicious Chicken and Rice recipe. This classic combination is a staple in many households for its simplicity and heartiness. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for feeding a hungry crowd, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get cooking!
**Chicken and Rice**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the rice and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly. This will enhance the flavor of the dish.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the frozen peas. Stir everything together, making sure the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the rice mixture.
6. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the dish simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and absorbs all the liquid.
7. Once the rice is tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Give the dish a gentle stir to fluff up the rice and evenly distribute the chicken and vegetables.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This will add a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the dish.
Serve this Chicken and Rice piping hot in bowls, and enjoy the comforting flavors and aromas. This recipe is not only delicious and filling but also versatile—you can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences. Plus, this dish reheats beautifully, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or leftovers the next day.
So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a dish that will fill your home with warmth and your belly with goodness. The simplicity of Chicken and Rice is what makes it so appealing, offering a satisfying meal that is both easy to make and delightful to eat. Enjoy every spoonful of this classic comfort food and share it with your loved ones for a cozy dining experience.
