Slow-Cooked Chicken and Rice
A comforting and simple bowl of tender, slow-cooked chicken breast with soft carrots and peas, served over a small portion of brown rice. Perfectly seasoned with garlic and thyme, this dish is light, wholesome, and easy to digest.
For 4 servings
Sauté the aromatics.
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan or pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and dried thyme and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
TIPKeep the heat on medium-low to prevent the garlic from browning too quickly and turning bitter.Combine ingredients for cooking.
- Add the cubed chicken breast to the pot and stir to coat with the garlic and thyme.
- Pour in the rinsed brown rice, diced carrots, and water.
- Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir everything together.
Simmer until tender.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. The rice should be cooked through, the chicken tender, and most of the liquid absorbed.
TIPAvoid lifting the lid while simmering to ensure the rice cooks evenly in the steam.Add the peas.
Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. They will cook quickly and retain their bright green color and texture.
Rest and serve.
Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the chicken and rice with a fork and serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra flavor, you can add a bay leaf along with the water and remove it before serving.
- 2Ensure the chicken pieces are cut into small, uniform sizes for quick and even cooking.
- 3This dish is great for meal prep. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- 4If the mixture looks too dry during cooking, you can add a splash of hot water.
Adapt it for your goals.
Quick
Use quick-cook brown rice or white rice and reduce the simmering time accordingly, following package instructions.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Ensure carrots are diced very small. You can also add a tablespoon of corn for a touch of sweetness.
healthyHealthy
Add finely chopped celery or zucchini along with the carrots for more vegetable content without significantly changing the calorie count.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Source
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Fiber
Brown rice provides dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness.
Vitamins and Minerals
Carrots are rich in Vitamin A, essential for vision and immune function, while peas offer a good source of vitamins K and C.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this dish is very healthy. It features lean protein from chicken breast, complex carbohydrates and fiber from brown rice, and essential vitamins from the vegetables. It's a balanced, low-fat meal.