There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Herb Chicken Rice. This dish is all about simplicity and flavor, bringing together juicy chicken thighs and aromatic herbs, all cooked together in one pot! Yes, you heard that right—one pot! That means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal. I love how the jasmine rice absorbs all the savory goodness from the chicken broth and herbs, creating a dish that’s not only hearty but packed with flavor. Trust me, once you try this herb chicken rice, it’ll become a weeknight staple in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Herb Chicken Rice is a delightful dish that checks all the boxes for a weeknight dinner. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:
- Quick Prep: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can jump straight into cooking!
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of chicken, garlic, and herbs creates an irresistible aroma and taste.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
- Nutritious & Satisfying: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, it’s a hearty meal you can feel good about.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your delicious Herb Chicken Rice:
- 2 cups of jasmine rice
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor)
- 2 cups of chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (more if you love garlic!)
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (adds a lovely pop of color)
How to Prepare Herb Chicken Rice
Preparing Herb Chicken Rice is a breeze, and it all comes together in one pot! This is where the magic happens, and trust me, you’ll love how easy it is. Let’s get into it!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sauté but not smoking.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Ooh, that smell is heavenly!
- While the garlic is cooking, season your chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Don’t be shy; this is where the flavor comes from!
- Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the pot and brown it on both sides, roughly 5 minutes per side. You want a nice golden color here!
- Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
- Now, stir in the jasmine rice into the same pot, allowing it to absorb all those lovely flavors for about 2-3 minutes. It’s like giving the rice a flavor bath!
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. That’s when the real magic starts!
- Return the chicken to the pot, cover it with a lid, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and has soaked up all that delicious broth.
- Finally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. It adds a lovely freshness and beautiful color to the dish!
And there you have it—simple, savory, and oh-so-satisfying Herb Chicken Rice ready to be enjoyed! Don’t you just love a one-pot meal that delivers such incredible flavors?
Tips for Success
To ensure your Herb Chicken Rice turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips and tricks:
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you can, opt for fresh thyme and rosemary instead of dried. They elevate the flavor to a whole new level!
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time to brown the chicken thighs properly. This step adds depth and richness to the dish.
- Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a more robust flavor, feel free to substitute half of the chicken broth with white wine. It adds a lovely zing!
- Customize the Veggies: Add in some diced carrots or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your dish before serving! Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit covered for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Make It Ahead: This dish keeps well in the fridge, so consider making a double batch for easy lunches throughout the week!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and satisfying Herb Chicken Rice that your friends and family will rave about!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of your meals is important, and I want to give you a ballpark idea of what you’re getting with this Herb Chicken Rice. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sugar: 0g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods. But this gives you a good idea of the wholesome goodness packed into each delicious serving of Herb Chicken Rice!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making Herb Chicken Rice? Don’t worry, I’ve got your back! Here are some common inquiries I get, along with my trusty answers:
Can I use other types of rice?
Absolutely! While jasmine rice gives a lovely texture and flavor, you can use basmati or even brown rice. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially for brown rice, which usually takes longer to cook.
What if I don’t have chicken thighs?
No problem! You can substitute chicken breasts or even drumsticks if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember that cooking times might change slightly, so keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, indeed! Herb Chicken Rice is great for meal prep. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
What vegetables can I add?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! Carrots, peas, bell peppers, or even spinach work wonderfully. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, just cut into the thickest part of the chicken; it should be juicy and no longer pink inside!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover Herb Chicken Rice is super simple, and it’s a great way to enjoy this delicious dish again! Here’s how to do it:
- Cool Down: First, let the Herb Chicken Rice cool completely at room temperature. This helps prevent condensation in your storage container.
- Store: Transfer the cooled rice into an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it!
- Freezing: For freezing, portion out the rice into freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to label them with the date! You can freeze it for up to 2 months.
Now, when it comes to reheating, you have a couple of options:
- Microwave: Transfer a serving to a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Make sure it’s steaming hot before digging in!
- Stovetop: If you prefer using the stovetop, add the rice to a skillet with a little broth or water. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This method helps revive the texture beautifully!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Herb Chicken Rice with ease, making it a perfect option for meal prep or quick lunches. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving up your delicious Herb Chicken Rice, you want to create a balanced meal that complements the flavors of the dish. Here are some of my favorite ideas:
- Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a perfect pairing. The crunch and acidity help balance the richness of the chicken and rice.
- Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed veggies like broccoli, green beans, or carrots add a beautiful pop of color and nutrients. Just a sprinkle of salt and a squeeze of lemon can elevate them!
- Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender. It’s a classy side that complements the herbaceous flavors of the main dish.
- Garlic Bread: Who doesn’t love a warm slice of garlic bread? It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover broth from your Herb Chicken Rice!
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and a bit of creaminess. I love how it contrasts with the warm, savory rice and chicken.
These serving suggestions will not only round out your meal but also make it a delightful experience for everyone at the table. Enjoy your Herb Chicken Rice and happy feasting!
Print
Herb Chicken Rice: 7 Comforting Reasons to Make It Tonight
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and flavorful herb chicken rice dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of jasmine rice
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- Add chicken to the pot and brown on both sides.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add jasmine rice to the pot and stir for a few minutes.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Place chicken back in the pot, cover, and reduce heat to low.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for more flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Herb Chicken Rice, Chicken, Rice, One-pot meal