Discover the irresistible flavors of a classic Chinese dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Beijing! Our Chinese Chicken and Rice recipe is not just a meal; it's a delightful experience that combines tender chicken thighs, fragrant jasmine rice, and a medley of savory ingredients, all cooked to perfection in just 40 minutes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, this dish promises to impress your family and friends with its mouthwatering aroma and vibrant presentation. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into this simple yet delectable recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 1 lb. chicken thighs, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp. soy sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp. vegetable oil
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, finely chopping onion, mincing garlic, and slicing green onions for garnish.
- Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until water runs clear, then drain thoroughly to remove excess starch.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add diced chicken thighs to the skillet, cooking and stirring until the chicken is lightly browned and mostly cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
- Pour in rinsed rice, chicken broth, and soy sauce. Stir ingredients to combine evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow rice to fully absorb remaining moisture.
- Fluff rice with a fork, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop the onions and garlic, and dice the chicken thighs in advance. You can even rinse the rice the night before to streamline the cooking process.
- Use Quality Chicken Broth: For a richer flavor, opt for low-sodium chicken broth. This will enhance the overall taste without making the dish too salty.
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Allow the onions to become golden and aromatic before adding the garlic and chicken. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish.
- Perfect Rice Texture: Make sure to rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy and non-sticky rice.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture and results in a perfect texture.
- Garnish for Color: Adding freshly chopped green onions not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh crunch and flavor that elevates the dish.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to toss in some vegetables like peas or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Just add them in with the chicken for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 110mg
