Are you tired of complicated recipes that take hours to prepare? Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight cooking with this incredibly simple yet mouthwatering chicken, rice, and broccoli dish that will have your family asking for seconds! In just 45 minutes, you'll create a perfectly balanced meal that's not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to make - even for busy home cooks with zero culinary experience.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 2 cups broccoli
- 1 cup rice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of chicken breast, 2 cups of broccoli, 1 cup of rice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Rinse the rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the water has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the rice is cooking, prepare the chicken. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes before slicing.
- While the chicken is resting, prepare the broccoli. In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and a splash of water. Cover the skillet and steam the broccoli for about 4-5 minutes, or until it is bright green and tender-crisp.
- Once the broccoli is cooked, uncover the skillet and season it with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
- To serve, fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it among four plates. Top each portion of rice with sliced chicken and a generous serving of steamed broccoli.
- Drizzle any remaining juices from the skillet over the chicken and broccoli for added flavor. Enjoy your weeknight dish!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Rice Rinsing Hack: Thoroughly rinse your rice to remove excess starch, which prevents clumpy, sticky rice and ensures a fluffy texture.
- One-Pan Efficiency: Use the same skillet for chicken and broccoli to maximize flavor and minimize cleanup time.
- Resting Matters: Let your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the chicken for a personalized touch. Garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs can elevate the flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
