Chicken Veggie Brown Rice Skillet
Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking
A delightful one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and wholesome brown rice for a nutritious dinner option.
This Chicken Veggie Brown Rice Skillet is not just a meal; it's a complete experience. The combination of juicy chicken breasts, vibrant vegetables, and nutty brown rice makes for a satisfying dish that everyone will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is easy to whip up and packed with flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Packed with protein and nutrients from fresh vegetables
- One-pan cooking for easy cleanup
- Flavorful and satisfying, perfect for the whole family
A Convenient One-Pan Meal
One of the standout features of this Chicken Veggie Brown Rice Skillet is its convenience. By utilizing just one pan, you can significantly reduce your cleanup time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Simply sauté, simmer, and serve; it’s that easy! This efficient cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a delicious meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
In addition to ease of preparation, this dish is also a time-saver. With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, you can have a wholesome dinner on the table in no time. The combination of chicken, rice, and veggies means that you can feed your family a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a win-win situation that fits perfectly into a hectic lifestyle.
Nutritional Benefits
This Chicken Veggie Brown Rice Skillet is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The chicken breast provides a lean source of protein, while the brown rice offers complex carbohydrates that keep you feeling full and energized. The addition of colorful vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots contributes essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish a powerhouse of nutrition.
Moreover, incorporating a variety of vegetables adds dietary fiber, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system. The antioxidants found in these vibrant veggies may also help protect against chronic diseases. By choosing this recipe, you’re not just satisfying your hunger; you’re also making a positive choice for your health.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the best aspects of the Chicken Veggie Brown Rice Skillet is its versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Try adding zucchini, spinach, or peas for a different twist. This adaptability allows you to keep the recipe fresh and exciting while catering to your family’s preferences.
Additionally, if you have dietary restrictions or preferences, this skillet can be easily modified. Substitute the chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based version. You can also use quinoa instead of brown rice for a gluten-free alternative. This recipe is designed to be flexible, so feel free to experiment and make it your own!
Ingredients
For the Skillet
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Add the Vegetables
Add the minced garlic, broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots to the skillet. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
Cook the Rice
Stir in the brown rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Serve
Fluff the rice with a fork, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot. Enjoy your nutritious Chicken Veggie Brown Rice Skillet!
Serve hot and enjoy the delightful flavors of this skillet dish!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers from your Chicken Veggie Brown Rice Skillet, you’re in luck! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To ensure the best quality, allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’s a perfect meal prep option, making it easy to enjoy a nutritious meal later in the week.
When reheating, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. This way, you can enjoy the same delightful flavors and textures as when it was freshly made.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Chicken Veggie Brown Rice Skillet experience, consider serving it alongside a fresh side salad or some crusty whole-grain bread. A light vinaigrette can complement the dish beautifully, adding an extra layer of flavor. You can also sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of freshness.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick. This dish is versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, making it a perfect centerpiece for any family meal or dinner gathering.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Chicken Veggie Brown Rice Skillet is an excellent choice for meal prepping! With its balanced combination of protein, carbs, and veggies, it provides everything you need for a complete meal. Prepare a double batch on the weekend, and portion it out for the week ahead. This strategy not only saves time but also helps you stick to your healthy eating goals.
You can easily modify portions to suit your needs, making it a flexible option whether you're cooking for one, two, or a whole family. Meal prepping with this dish can help you avoid the temptation of unhealthy takeout and ensure you always have a nutritious meal ready to go.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time, as white rice cooks faster than brown rice.
→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
→ How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the chicken for an extra kick!
Chicken Veggie Brown Rice Skillet
A delightful one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and wholesome brown rice for a nutritious dinner option.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Hearty Home Cooking
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Skillet
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Add the minced garlic, broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots to the skillet. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
Stir in the brown rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Fluff the rice with a fork, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot. Enjoy your nutritious Chicken Veggie Brown Rice Skillet!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 58g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g