Are you ready to dive into a warm bowl of comfort food? This Chicken Over Rice recipe is a cozy hug for your taste buds that brings together juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies—all simmered in a rich, savory broth. The best part? It’s creamy without a drop of cream! Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Imagine sinking your fork into tender chicken, perfectly spiced, and resting on a bed of aromatic rice that soaks up every bit of flavor. Pull up a chair and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love Chicken Over Rice (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
This Chicken Over Rice recipe is more than just food; it’s a complete experience. Each bite is a texture-packed delight, with the crunch of fresh veggies meeting the softness of the rice and the tenderness of the chicken. You can whip this up in no time and customize it with whatever you have in your pantry.
- Speedy Cooking: Whip this dish up in about 30 minutes!
- Satisfying Texture: Enjoy the contrast of tender chicken and fluffy rice.
- Pantry-Friendly: Use ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
- Dietary Notes: Easy to make gluten-free or dairy-free!
Feel the joy as you serve up a steaming bowl—trust me, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again!
Ingredients for Chicken Over Rice
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender and juicy protein that soaks up flavor.
- 1 cup long-grain rice – Provides a fluffy base to soak up the delicious broth.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Adds rich flavor while keeping it light.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced – Gives a fragrant kick to the dish.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Helps cook the chicken to perfection.
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce – Adds savory umami goodness.
- 1 tsp ground cumin – Introduces a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 tsp paprika – Adds a bit of color and a mild depth of taste.
- 1 cup peas and carrots (fresh or frozen) – Brightens the dish with color and nutrition.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.
How to Make Chicken Over Rice
Phase 1 – Prep
- Wash and chop the onion and garlic.
- Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Measure out the rice and chicken broth.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the rice, broth, soy sauce, cumin, and paprika.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cover.
- Cook until rice is tender, about 15-18 minutes.
- Gently fold in peas and carrots; allow to warm through before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions really enhance the flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Let the onions and garlic get golden for richer taste.
- Swap the Rice: Try quinoa for a nutty alternative.
- Storage Tip: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Perfectly Cooked Rice: Let the dish sit covered off the heat for 5 minutes for fluffy rice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is not allowing the onions and garlic to sauté long enough. If they’re not done, you might miss out on that deep flavor. Just remember, patience is key!
Another issue could be adding too much liquid; this can make your rice mushy. Stick to the recommended chicken broth to rice ratio for the perfect texture.
Lastly, overcooking the chicken is a big no-no. Make sure to cook just until it’s no longer pink—this keeps your chicken juicy and tender.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Dairy-Free: The recipe is naturally free of dairy but enjoy its creaminess by making variations.
- Spicy: Add chili flakes or your favorite hot sauce for a kick!
- Herbal: Toss in fresh parsley or cilantro at the end for a fresh twist.
- Cooking Methods: Try using an Instant Pot or air fryer for quicker prep.
How to Serve Chicken Over Rice
- Best Pairings: A side salad or steamed broccoli balances this hearty dish.
- Toppings: Garnish with fresh parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flair!
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Absolutely! Make a batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze it for up to 3 months. The rice will be a bit softer when reheated, so enjoy it as a cozy comfort food!
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used instead of the peas and carrots. Just add them in the last few minutes of cooking.
How to make it extra creamy without cream?
Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of sour cream when serving for added creaminess!
Can I double it?
Yes, feel free to double the recipe! Just ensure your pot is large enough to accommodate.
How to fix a too-thick soup?
Add a little more broth or water to thin it out until you reach your desired consistency.
Enjoy this delightful Chicken Over Rice recipe and all the comforting flavors it brings! It’s a delicious dinner that’s sure to impress, so don’t forget to rate and comment on your experience, or check out other cozy recipes on our site!
Chicken Over Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and chop the onion and garlic.
- Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Measure out the rice and chicken broth.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the rice, broth, soy sauce, cumin, and paprika.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cover.
- Cook until rice is tender, about 15-18 minutes.
- Gently fold in peas and carrots; allow to warm through before serving.