Why Make This Recipe
30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice is a fantastic dish that combines convenience and flavor. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious yet quick to prepare. With minimal cleanup, this one-pan meal becomes a favorite for families and individuals alike.
This recipe is not just about speed; it also packs a satisfying taste with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
Equipment Needed for 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice
To make this dish, you’ll need some basic kitchen equipment. Having the right tools will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Fork for fluffing rice
- Serving dishes
What You Need to Make 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice
To whip up this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
How to Cook 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice Step by Step
Begin your cooking adventure by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium/high heat and adding the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, toss in the chicken pieces along with 1 teaspoon of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sauté the chicken for about 5 minutes until the outside turns golden and the meat is almost cooked through.
Next, introduce the onion and the thinly sliced red bell peppers to the skillet. Sprinkle in another pinch of salt for flavor and cook the mixture for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure that the veggies soften and mingle with the chicken. After that, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aromatic goodness.
Now it’s time to bring in a little color and richness; stir in the tomato paste and the rinsed jasmine rice. Make sure the chicken and veggies are well coated with the tomato paste and the rice is evenly distributed in the skillet. This will help every grain absorb the delicious flavors.
Pour in the low sodium chicken broth along with the remaining teaspoon of salt. Give everything a gentle stir until well combined. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot with a lid, lowering the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 15 minutes, ensuring the rice absorbs all the savory broth.
Once the time is up, turn off the heat but keep the pot covered. Let it rest for another 10 minutes. This step helps the rice fluff up beautifully without losing moisture. Finally, lift the lid and fluff the rice with a fork before serving it hot!
How to Make 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice
Making 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice is incredibly straightforward. Start by preparing your chicken and vegetables to ensure everything is ready to go when you need it. This not only speeds up the cooking process but also makes the experience much more enjoyable.
Heat the oil, add your chicken and spices, then layer in your vegetables and garlic. Stir in the tomato paste and rice, pour over the broth, and let everything simmer together. The one-pan method is both handy and effective, making cleanup afterward a breeze.
How to Serve 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice
Serving 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice is as easy as dishing it out from the skillet. This dish has a wonderful presentation with its vibrant vegetables and golden chicken pieces nestled in fluffy rice.
For an appealing presentation, consider using a large serving spoon to scoop individual portions into bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an added touch of flavor and color. A splash of lime juice over the top can also brighten the dish nicely.
What to Serve with 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice
30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice is a meal in itself, but it pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This adds a nice crunch and balances the warmth of the chicken and rice.
You might also enjoy it with roasted or steamed vegetables, which complement the dish and add extra nutrition. For a heartier experience, crusty bread or warm naan can be served for dipping in the flavorful broth.
How to Store 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice
Storing leftover 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice is easy. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. This will help preserve the flavors and texture.
You can keep the leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving again. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. They will stay good for about 2-3 months, making it an excellent meal prep option.
Tips to Make 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice
To enhance your cooking experience, here are some helpful tips. First, ensure that your chicken is cut into even bite-sized pieces. This allows for consistent cooking and ensures no pieces are undercooked.
Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a bit of heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes or spicy paprika can elevate the dish. Also, remember to rinse your rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
Variation (if any)
This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing for various ingredient swaps and additions. If you prefer leaner protein, turkey or shrimp can be fantastic alternatives to chicken.
Vegetables can also be swapped based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, peas, or carrots can add more variety and nutrition to the meal. You might even throw in some frozen vegetables for convenience, reducing prep time significantly.
Best Time to Make 30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice
30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice is perfect for any time you need an easy and satisfying meal. It shines particularly on busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the fuss.
Lunch prep is another great occasion for this dish. Make a big batch at the beginning of the week, and enjoy it throughout. It holds up well and can be quickly reheated for a satisfying meal any day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcrowding the pan when cooking the chicken. This can lead to steaming rather than searing, which affects flavor. Cook in batches if necessary, or ensure there’s enough space for even cooking.
Another mistake is not rinsing the rice beforehand. This can lead to overly sticky rice that doesn’t fluff well. Lastly, don’t skip the resting time after cooking. It’s crucial for achieving that perfect texture in the rice.
Nutritional Notes
This dish is a well-balanced option, containing protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the rice, and vitamins from the vegetables. Using low-sodium broth helps control salt intake while still adding rich flavor.
Feel free to adjust portions depending on your dietary needs. Increasing the vegetable amount can further enhance the nutritional profile, providing more fiber and vitamins.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but adjust the cooking time and liquid since brown rice generally takes longer to cook. You might need to extend the simmering time by about 10-15 minutes, and use a bit more broth.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead, store the leftovers in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve. This meal also freezes well, allowing for easy meal prep.
Can I add different vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like or have handy. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything cooks perfectly.
Conclusion
30 Minute One Pan Chicken and Rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a wealth of comfort to your dinner table. With just one pan and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for busy evenings or meal prep.
The delightful combination of chicken, rice, and vegetables, all cooked together with rich seasonings, makes for a satisfying and versatile meal. So why not try making it for your family tonight? You’ll find it becomes a cherished recipe in your collection, offering deliciousness and ease all in one pan.
