Chicken Breast and Rice Recipes: A Delicious and Versatile Meal
Chicken breast and rice is a classic comfort food, loved for its simplicity and adaptability. This combination offers a perfect balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option for any day of the week. This post will explore several delicious and easy chicken breast and rice recipes, catering to different tastes and skill levels. We'll delve into the best cooking techniques to ensure your chicken remains juicy and your rice fluffy. Let's get cooking!
Simple One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tbsp dried herbs (Italian mix, oregano, or thyme work well)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides.
- Add rice, chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, herbs, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a simmer on the stovetop, then transfer to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the chicken is cooked thoroughly (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Fluff with a fork and serve immediately.
Creamy Tomato Chicken and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in cooked chicken, rice, heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Combine well.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve.
Spicy Coconut Chicken and Rice
This recipe offers a flavorful twist on the classic combination.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 tbsp red curry paste
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; sauté until softened.
- Stir in coconut milk, red curry paste, ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in cooked rice and heat through.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious chicken breast and rice recipes you can create. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to find your perfect combination! Remember to adjust seasonings to your liking. Enjoy!