Looking for a simple, nutritious, and delicious meal that combines protein, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables in one dish? This chicken rice veggies recipe is your answer! Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want a satisfying homemade dinner without the fuss. This one-pot wonder combines tender chicken pieces, fluffy rice, and colorful vegetables in a savory broth that infuses every bite with flavor. The beauty of this dish is not just its simplicity, but its versatility—you can customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge. Let’s dive into this wholesome, balanced meal that will become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Chicken Rice and Vegetables: A Complete Meal
This chicken rice veggies recipe is the ultimate one-pot solution for busy days. With minimal prep work and straightforward cooking, you’ll have a balanced meal that satisfies the whole family. The combination of protein-packed chicken, fiber-rich vegetables, and filling rice creates a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large skillet or Dutch oven with lid
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon for stirring
Instructions
Step 1
Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them.
Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes until the exterior develops a beautiful golden-brown crust. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage – we’re simply building flavor through the browning process. Once properly seared, remove the chicken pieces and transfer them to a clean plate. Set aside for now, as they’ll return to the pan later to finish cooking with the rice and vegetables.
Step 2
In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 2 minutes until translucent. The residual heat and flavors from the chicken will enhance the onion’s natural sweetness.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as this can create a bitter taste.
Next, add the diced bell pepper and carrots to the pot. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. The vegetables should retain some of their crunch at this stage, as they’ll continue cooking with the rice.
Pro tip: Cut your vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
Step 3
Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir gently to coat each grain with the aromatic oil and vegetables. This initial coating helps prevent the rice from sticking together during cooking. Continue stirring frequently for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice grains.
Toasting the rice serves two important purposes:
- Enhanced flavor: The brief toasting develops a subtle nutty taste that elevates the overall dish
- Better texture: Toasted grains maintain their shape better and result in fluffier, less sticky rice
Watch for a light golden color and listen for gentle sizzling sounds – these indicate the rice is properly toasted and ready for the next step.
Step 4
Return the seared chicken pieces back to the pot, nestling them among the rice and vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring it covers the rice mixture by about half an inch. Sprinkle the dried oregano, thyme, and paprika evenly over the surface, then give everything a gentle stir to distribute the seasonings throughout.
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb most of the flavorful broth and become tender. Resist the urge to lift the lid frequently, as this releases steam needed for proper cooking.
Step 5
Add the frozen peas on top of the rice mixture without stirring them in. The peas should rest on the surface to steam gently with the residual heat and moisture. Cover the pot immediately and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
During this final cooking phase, the rice will absorb any remaining liquid and reach the perfect tender texture. The frozen peas will thaw and heat through completely while maintaining their bright color and slight crunch. Resist the urge to lift the lid during this time, as the trapped steam is essential for completing the cooking process.
The dish is ready when the rice grains are tender, all liquid has been absorbed, and the peas are heated through but still vibrant green.
Step 6
Remove from heat and let the dish rest. Turn off the burner and keep the pot covered. Allow the one-pot meal to stand for 5 minutes – this resting period lets the rice finish absorbing any remaining liquid and ensures perfectly tender grains.
After the resting time, remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. As you fluff, carefully fold in the peas and distribute all ingredients evenly throughout the dish. The peas should be bright green and tender-crisp.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a pinch more salt, black pepper, or any herbs you prefer. Give everything one final gentle stir to combine all flavors before serving.
Step 7
Garnish and serve your one-pot masterpiece by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and herbaceous flavor. Place lemon wedges alongside each serving – the bright citrus juice will enhance both the chicken and rice when squeezed over the dish. Serve immediately while hot, ensuring each portion contains a generous mix of tender chicken, flavorful rice, and colorful vegetables. Enjoy your complete, satisfying meal that required just one pot and minimal cleanup!
Why This Chicken Rice and Vegetables Recipe Works
The secret to this dish’s success is how the ingredients work together. The chicken provides protein while releasing its flavors into the broth. The rice absorbs this flavorful liquid as it cooks, and the vegetables add texture, color, and nutrition. The one-pot approach means that all these elements infuse each other with their flavors, creating a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
Plus, this chicken rice veggies recipe is infinitely customizable. Don’t have bell peppers? Try zucchini instead. Prefer brown rice? Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. This recipe is more of a template that you can make your own based on your preferences and what you have available.
