chicken brown rice recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
chicken brown rice recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best chicken brown rice recipe

I’ve been making chicken brown rice for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorite dishes. This recipe is a staple in many Asian cultures, where it’s known as ‘nasi goreng.’

It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the comfort of home-cooked chicken with the nutty taste of brown rice. The key to this recipe is in the cooking technique – you want to achieve a crispy bottom and a fluffy top, which requires some patience but is well worth the effort.

When I was growing up, my mom used to make this dish for special occasions, but now I like to make it for everyday meals because it’s just so easy to customize and serves a crowd. I love how versatile this recipe is – you can add vegetables, meat, or even leftovers to make it more interesting.

One-Pot Chicken and Brown Rice

One-Pot Chicken and Brown Rice

4.7 from 882 votes

A hearty and wholesome one-pot meal featuring tender chicken and nutty brown rice cooked in a savory broth with vegetables. This dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that requires minimal cleanup.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup brown rice, rinsed
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup frozen peas
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2Add chicken pieces in a single layer and cook without stirring for 4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes until browned on all sides.
3Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
4Reduce heat to medium and add diced onion to the pot, stirring frequently for 3 minutes until translucent.
5Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir in rinsed brown rice, coating it with the oil and onion mixture.
6Pour chicken broth into the pot and bring to a boil over high heat.
7Add the browned chicken back to the pot along with diced carrots, dried thyme, salt, and pepper, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
8Remove the pot from heat and stir in frozen peas, letting them warm through for 2 minutes.
9Fluff the rice with a fork and let it rest uncovered for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 550mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a bay leaf during simmering and remove it before serving. If you prefer a drier rice, reduce broth by 1/4 cup and check doneness at 30 minutes.

Watch Video Of How One-Pot Chicken and Brown Rice Works

This chicken brown rice recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or a quick weeknight meal.

It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and meats, making it a great option for picky eaters.

Plus, with its high fiber content from the brown rice and lean protein from the chicken, this dish is a great choice for those looking to eat healthier.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About One-Pot Chicken and Brown Rice

Q: What is the origin of chicken brown rice?

This dish has its roots in Southeast Asian cuisine, specifically in Indonesian and Malaysian cooking.

Q: Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can use white rice if you prefer a lighter texture and less nutty flavor.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

To keep the chicken moist, make sure to cook it on low heat and don’t overcook it.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and rice mixture ahead of time, but it’s best served fresh.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains chicken, so it’s not suitable for vegetarians. However, you can easily substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

Similar Posts