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Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe

Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe - Cheap Delicious Meals

Fresh ingredients and simple preparation often lead to the best meals. Chicken and brown rice is one of those meals. It’s not just about filling your belly; it’s about nourishing your body in a delicious way. 
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this dish on a busy weeknight or when you’re looking to impress guests without breaking a sweat. Despite its simplicity, chicken and brown rice boasts layers of flavor that can excite your palate. Let’s dig deeper into what makes this dish a staple in many kitchens.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 shallot, finely chopped or substitute with red or yellow onion
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 8 oz sliced mushrooms your choice of variety
  • 1 cup quick-cooking brown rice such as Trader Joe's brand
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup thawed frozen peas
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6-8 oz each
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon dried parsley flakes
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese optional, for added flavor
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice optional, for a bright finish

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
  1. Start by chopping your shallot and mincing the garlic. It’s amazing how these two ingredients will create an aromatic base for your dish! Slice your mushrooms and set them aside. For the chicken, ensure it’s cut into bite-sized pieces; this step helps with even cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic, allowing them to sweat for a couple of minutes until fragrant. Then, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook them until they're soft and slightly golden.
Step 3: Cook the Brown Rice
  1. Next, add the quick-cooking brown rice to the pot. Stir for about a minute. This will toast the rice, boosting its nutty flavor. Pour in the chicken broth, sprinkle in some salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Add the Chicken
  1. Once boiling, add the chicken pieces to the pot. Make sure they’re submerged in the liquid. This is essential for ensuring they cook evenly and stay moist. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let everything cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Incorporate Frozen Peas
  1. After the rice is cooked, gently stir in the thawed frozen peas. They don’t need long to heat up, just a few minutes will do. Remove the pot from heat, pop on the lid, and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
  1. Finally, drizzle the dish with some fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with grated Parmesan, if you’re feeling fancy. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Keep it Juicy: Marinade your chicken in lemon juice and olive oil for 30 minutes before cooking. It adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
  • Herb Varieties: Try using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor. Just toss them in before serving.
  • Add Crunch: For an extra texture, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds.
  • Customize: If you like spice, a dash of cayenne pepper can heat things up quite nicely.
  • One-Pot Wonder: To minimize cleanup, cook everything in the same pot. It’s simpler and more efficient!