Chicken Breast with Rice

Name: Chicken Breast with Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups long-grain white rice; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a satisfying and nutritious meal with this Chicken Breast with Rice recipe. Perfectly cooked chicken served over fluffy rice makes for a delightful dinner option.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:45:41.542Z

This Chicken Breast with Rice is a simple yet delicious dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken with fluffy rice. It's a family favorite and perfect for busy weeknights!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy chicken infused with flavorful spices
Comforting rice that absorbs all the delicious juices
Quick and easy to prepare for any night of the week

      

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

When you're looking for a quick yet hearty meal, this Chicken Breast with Rice recipe fits the bill perfectly. It's an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a flavorful dish ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal option for families or anyone who appreciates a satisfying meal without the fuss.

The combination of juicy chicken and fluffy rice not only provides a balanced nutrition profile but also offers a delightful taste experience. The spices used in the chicken enhance its natural flavors, while the rice serves as a comforting base that soaks up all the delicious juices. This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your dinner table.

Customizable for Your Taste

One of the best aspects of this Chicken Breast with Rice recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the seasonings or add your favorite vegetables to the rice for a personalized touch. For instance, consider adding bell peppers, peas, or broccoli to the rice while it cooks. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a pop of color and flavor that makes the dish even more appealing.

If you're someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, feel free to swap out the spices or add a sauce of your choice. A drizzle of teriyaki or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate this meal to new heights, allowing you to enjoy a different flavor profile with each preparation.

Health Benefits of Chicken and Rice

Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or build muscle. It is low in fat and high in nutrients, contributing to a balanced diet. Paired with rice, a staple carbohydrate, this meal provides a perfect energy boost, ensuring you feel satisfied and full without the heaviness that comes from richer dishes.

Moreover, using chicken broth instead of water to cook the rice not only enhances flavor but also adds additional nutrients. Chicken broth is rich in vitamins and minerals, which can contribute to improved digestion and overall health. So, not only is this recipe delicious, but it also supports your well-being.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

2 cups long-grain white rice
4 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon dried parsley

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest.

Cook the Rice

In a separate pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the rice and butter, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and add dried parsley.

Serve

Slice the chicken and serve it over the rice. Enjoy your meal!

Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor!

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

To ensure your chicken breasts come out juicy and tender, avoid overcooking them. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain its juices, making each bite more flavorful.

If you're short on time, consider marinating the chicken in the spices for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. This not only infuses the meat with flavor but also helps to tenderize it, making for an even juicier dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can last for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.

For a quick lunch, consider turning the leftovers into a wrap. Simply shred the chicken and mix it with the rice, then wrap it in a tortilla with some fresh veggies for a delicious, on-the-go meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Breast with Rice can be served with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette over a fresh green salad pairs beautifully with the flavors of the chicken and rice, adding a refreshing contrast to the dish.

For added richness, consider serving it with a sauce like a creamy garlic sauce or a tangy lemon herb dressing. These will complement the flavors beautifully and take your meal to the next level, making it even more enjoyable for family and guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into it to ensure there is no pink meat.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Vegetables like broccoli or peas can be added to the rice during the last few minutes of cooking.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated easily.