Garlic Chicken, Vegetable, and Rice Skillet: A One-Pan Wonder
Looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy weeknight meal? Look no further than this Garlic Chicken, Vegetable, and Rice Skillet! This one-pan wonder is packed with flavor, loaded with nutrients, and requires minimal cleanup. Tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice are all cooked together in a savory garlic sauce, creating a complete and satisfying meal in under an hour. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or anyone who wants a simple and flavorful dish.
## Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Chicken and Rice Skillet
* **Easy Cleanup:** Everything cooks in one skillet, meaning fewer dishes to wash!
* **Flavorful and Delicious:** The garlic sauce infuses every ingredient with a savory and aromatic flavor.
* **Customizable:** Easily swap out vegetables or protein to suit your preferences.
* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and complex carbohydrates.
* **Quick and Convenient:** Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Uses simple and affordable ingredients.
* **Meal Prep Friendly:** It reheats beautifully.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
* **Chicken:** 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
* **Rice:** 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed. Using parboiled rice can help avoid a mushy texture. Brown rice can also be used, but will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
* **Vegetables:**
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (or more, if you’re a garlic lover!)
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped
* 1 cup broccoli florets
* 1 cup frozen peas (or any other frozen vegetable you enjoy)
* 1 cup sliced carrots.
* **Chicken Broth:** 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium is preferred).
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons olive oil.
* **Soy Sauce:** 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium).
* **Sesame Oil:** 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for added flavor).
* **Spices:**
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **Garnish (Optional):** Fresh parsley, chopped green onions, sesame seeds.
## Equipment You’ll Need
* Large skillet with a lid (at least 12 inches)
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring cups and spoons
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Garlic Chicken, Vegetable, and Rice Skillet:
**Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**
* Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a bowl and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Toss to coat evenly.
**Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics**
* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
**Step 3: Brown the Chicken**
* Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
**Step 4: Add the Vegetables**
* Add the bell peppers and carrots to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until slightly softened. Add the broccoli florets and cook for another 2 minutes.
**Step 5: Combine Everything**
* Add the rinsed rice back into the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil (if using). Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly distributed.
**Step 6: Simmer and Cook**
* Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Be sure to keep the lid on tightly to trap the steam and cook the rice properly.
**Step 7: Add the Chicken Back In and Finish**
* Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the frozen peas. Cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the peas are heated through and the chicken is warmed. You can also add any other frozen vegetable that you want to throw in.
**Step 8: Let it Rest**
* Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to fully absorb any remaining liquid and prevents it from becoming sticky.
**Step 9: Garnish and Serve**
* Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds (if desired). Serve immediately and enjoy!
## Tips for the Perfect Garlic Chicken and Rice Skillet
* **Rinse the Rice:** Rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch and helps prevent it from becoming sticky.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning and prevents the chicken from steaming instead of searing.
* **Use Low-Sodium Broth and Soy Sauce:** This helps control the sodium content of the dish.
* **Adjust the Spices:** Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add more red pepper flakes for a spicier dish, or use different herbs and spices altogether.
* **Don’t Peek!:** Resist the urge to lift the lid while the rice is cooking. This will release steam and can result in unevenly cooked rice.
* **Use a Good Quality Skillet:** A heavy-bottomed skillet will distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching.
* **Adjust the Broth:** If the rice absorbs all the broth before it’s fully cooked, add a little more broth, 1/4 cup at a time, until the rice is done. The amount of liquid needed can vary depending on your stove and cookware. If there is too much liquid at the end, remove the lid and cook over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the excess liquid evaporates.
* **Consider adding acidity:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of rice vinegar at the end brightens the flavors and adds a welcome tang.
## Variations and Substitutions
This Garlic Chicken, Vegetable, and Rice Skillet is incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas for variations and substitutions:
* **Protein:** Substitute the chicken with shrimp, sausage, tofu, or even ground turkey.
* **Vegetables:** Use any vegetables you like! Some other great options include mushrooms, zucchini, snap peas, corn, and spinach. Add them at appropriate times during cooking based on their density (e.g., spinach should be added very last).
* **Rice:** Try using brown rice, quinoa, or farro instead of white rice. Keep in mind that these grains may require different cooking times and liquid amounts. Ensure you follow package directions for cooking instructions if using a different grain.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness. You can also add other spices like paprika, cumin, or chili powder.
* **Sauce:** Experiment with different sauces! Try using teriyaki sauce, honey garlic sauce, or even a simple lemon-herb sauce.
* **Add Creaminess:** Stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or sour cream at the end for a creamier dish.
* **Make it Cheesy:** Sprinkle some shredded cheese over the top during the last few minutes of cooking.
* **Coconut milk**: Substitute some of the chicken broth with coconut milk for a richer flavor.
## Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Chicken, Vegetable, and Rice Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
* **Salad:** Serve with a simple side salad to add some freshness and crunch.
* **Bread:** Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* **Asian-Inspired Sides:** Serve with spring rolls, potstickers, or seaweed salad.
* **Toppings:** Offer a variety of toppings like chopped peanuts, sriracha, or lime wedges.
## Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
* **Make Ahead:** This skillet meal can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent it from drying out.
* **Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat as directed above.
* **Freezing:** While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen for longer storage. Let the skillet meal cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Please note that nutritional information can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
* Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
* Protein: 30-40g
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
* Fat: 15-25g
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
**Q: Can I use brown rice in this recipe?**
A: Yes, you can use brown rice. However, brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. You will likely need to increase the cooking time to 45-50 minutes and add an additional 1/2 cup of chicken broth.
**Q: Can I use frozen chicken?**
A: It’s best to use thawed chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If you must use frozen chicken, make sure it is fully thawed before adding it to the skillet.
**Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?**
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or substitute with tofu or plant-based protein.
**Q: My rice is mushy. What did I do wrong?**
A: Mushy rice can be caused by using too much liquid or overcooking. Make sure you are using the correct ratio of rice to liquid and avoid lifting the lid while the rice is cooking.
**Q: My rice is still hard after the cooking time. What should I do?**
A: If your rice is still hard, add a little more chicken broth (1/4 cup at a time) and continue cooking until the rice is tender.
**Q: Can I add other spices?**
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Some great options include paprika, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.
**Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?**
A: While this recipe is designed for a skillet, you could adapt it for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken and sauté the onions and garlic in a skillet first. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients, and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
## Enjoy Your Delicious Garlic Chicken and Rice Skillet!
This Garlic Chicken, Vegetable, and Rice Skillet is a surefire way to impress your family and friends with a flavorful and easy-to-make meal. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and get ready to enjoy a one-pan wonder that will become a staple in your kitchen!
**If you tried this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below! I would love to hear from you.**