There’s something magical about a plate of Chicken, Rice and Broccoli that makes it feel like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and vibrant green broccoli all mingling on your plate, creating a symphony of flavors that dance together in harmony. The aroma wafts through the air, igniting your senses as you anticipate that first delightful bite.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Chicken, Rice and Broccoli
- How to Make Chicken, Rice and Broccoli
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What is the best way to cook Chicken, Rice and Broccoli?
- Can I meal prep Chicken, Rice and Broccoli?
- Is Chicken, Rice and Broccoli healthy?
- Can I customize Chicken, Rice and Broccoli?
- Conclusion for Chicken, Rice and Broccoli:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let me take you back to my college days when I discovered this glorious trio. After countless ramen noodle dinners that could only be described as “sad,” I stumbled upon this recipe. It turned my bland meals into culinary masterpieces! The perfect dish for weeknight dinners or meal prep sessions, Chicken, Rice and Broccoli quickly became my go-to comfort food.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken, Rice and Broccoli recipe is not just easy to prepare; it delivers a wholesome meal packed with flavor
- It visually brightens any dinner table with its colorful ingredients
- You can customize the dish based on seasonal vegetables or add spices for an extra kick
- Plus, it’s a versatile option that works for lunch leftovers too!
Ingredients for Chicken, Rice and Broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust according to how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
- Fresh Broccoli: Choose vibrant green florets; they should feel firm and fresh—no one wants sad broccoli.
- Long-Grain White Rice: I prefer using jasmine rice for its fragrance and fluffy texture—perfect for soaking up flavors.
- Olive Oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil adds richness; don’t skimp here!
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps balance flavors without overwhelming the dish with saltiness.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic boost; minced or crushed is ideal.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to enhance flavor while keeping things light—nobody likes overly salty meals!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken, Rice and Broccoli
Start by marinating the chicken breasts in soy sauce mixed with minced garlic. Let them soak up those flavors for at least thirty minutes—this step is crucial for juicy chicken!
While the chicken marinates, prepare the rice according to package instructions. Feel free to use broth instead of water for added flavor; your taste buds will thank you later.
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When it’s hot enough that it shimmers like diamonds in sunlight, add the marinated chicken breasts. Sizzle them until golden brown—about six to seven minutes per side—releasing incredible aromas into your kitchen!
Once the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F), remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board. Trust me; this rest period ensures tenderness.
In the same skillet, toss in your fresh broccoli florets. Sauté them until bright green and tender-crisp—about three to four minutes will do! They should retain their crunch while absorbing all those delicious remnants left behind by the chicken.
Combine everything by adding rice back into the skillet along with diced chicken. Pour in some chicken broth and stir well until all ingredients are coated in luscious sauce—a moment of pure culinary bliss!
Let everything simmer together on low heat for another five minutes so flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy watching as colors pop vibrantly while filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents!
Serve immediately while still warm—maybe even with some extra soy sauce drizzled on top if you’re feeling adventurous! Gather around the table and dig into this comforting meal that brings everyone together.
This Chicken, Rice and Broccoli recipe is not just about filling bellies; it’s about creating memories around shared meals. So grab those forks and savor every bite!
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in flavors, then cook the rice while steaming the broccoli. This ensures everything finishes at the same time, maximizing freshness and taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for green beans or add some cheese for extra creaminess. Spice lovers can sprinkle red pepper flakes for a kick, making your Chicken, Rice and Broccoli uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or sauté in a pan to revive that fresh taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let chicken rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy
- For perfectly cooked rice, use a 2: 1 water-to-rice ratio
- Don’t overcook your broccoli; you want that vibrant green crunch!
Sometimes I whip up Chicken, Rice and Broccoli when my friends come over, and their praises make me blush every time; it’s like I’m some kind of culinary rock star!
FAQs:
What is the best way to cook Chicken, Rice and Broccoli?
Cooking Chicken, Rice, and Broccoli can be done in various ways. One popular method is to use a one-pot recipe. Start by sautéing diced chicken until golden brown. Then, add rice and broth, followed by broccoli florets. Cover and simmer until the rice and broccoli are tender. This approach allows all flavors to meld beautifully while keeping cleanup easy.
Can I meal prep Chicken, Rice and Broccoli?
Absolutely! Chicken, Rice, and Broccoli makes for an excellent meal prep option. Cook a large batch on the weekend, then divide it into individual containers. Store them in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for longer storage. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat! This ensures you always have a healthy meal on hand.
Is Chicken, Rice and Broccoli healthy?
Yes, Chicken, Rice, and Broccoli is a nutritious meal choice. It provides lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the rice, and essential vitamins from the broccoli. This combination supports muscle growth and overall health while being low in calories if prepared with minimal oil.
Can I customize Chicken, Rice and Broccoli?
Definitely! You can customize Chicken, Rice, and Broccoli based on your taste preferences. Consider adding different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrients. You could also vary the spices or use different sauces to change flavor profiles—making this dish versatile for any palate.
Conclusion for Chicken, Rice and Broccoli:
In conclusion, Chicken, Rice, and Broccoli is a deliciously versatile dish that promotes healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. By using simple ingredients that are easy to prepare, you create a balanced meal rich in protein and nutrients. Whether you choose to cook it as a one-pot wonder or customize it with your favorite flavors, this recipe fits perfectly into any busy lifestyle. Enjoy your healthy cooking journey with this classic dish!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Chicken, Rice and Broccoli
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken, Rice, and Broccoli is a heartwarming dish that brings together juicy chicken, fluffy jasmine rice, and vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, offering a wholesome and satisfying meal that warms both the body and soul. Whether enjoyed fresh or as leftovers, it’s a delicious way to nourish your family.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Marinate chicken breasts in soy sauce and minced garlic for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions, using chicken broth instead of water for added flavor.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from skillet and let rest.
- In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Dice the chicken and return it to the skillet along with cooked rice and remaining chicken broth. Stir to combine and let simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
