Description
A flavorful and easy one-pot chicken and rice recipe that combines tender chicken breast, fragrant basmati rice, and mixed vegetables cooked together with Italian seasoning and soy sauce for a delicious and comforting meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into ½-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
- 1 (10-ounce) bag frozen peas and carrots
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 ½ cups water
- Fresh parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Heat and sauté onions: In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Cook the chopped onions until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds.
- Cook chicken: Add the cubed chicken breast to the pot and season with Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is mostly cooked through, about 7 minutes.
- Add rice and vegetables: Stir in the rinsed basmati rice with the chicken and cook together for about 2 minutes to lightly toast the rice. Then add the frozen peas and carrots, soy sauce, and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt.
- Simmer rice and chicken: Pour in 1 ½ cups of water and stir to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer gently until the rice is fully cooked, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the pot to sit covered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes to let the steam finish cooking the rice.
- Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top if desired, and serve warm for a wholesome meal.
Notes
- Rinsing the basmati rice before cooking helps remove excess starch and prevents it from becoming sticky.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper based on your preference.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice touch of color and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.
- If you want a spicier kick, consider adding chili flakes alongside the Italian seasoning.
- Using a tight-fitting lid is essential to trap steam and properly cook the rice.
- This dish can be customized by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American