Chicken with Peppers and Onions Rice Recipe
Chicken with peppers and onions rice is a dish full of rich taste and comforting textures. The chicken stays juicy while the peppers add sweetness and the onions bring depth. Rice absorbs all the goodness making it a filling meal that pleases everyone.
It is a dish that works well for busy weeknights as well as family gatherings. The mix of colorful vegetables makes it look attractive on the table. Each bite offers a balance of protein, vegetables, and grains that feels wholesome.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast boneless | 2 pieces | 440 |
| Rice uncooked | 1 cup | 200 |
| Bell peppers sliced | 2 medium | 50 |
| Onion sliced | 1 large | 45 |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons | 360 |
| Garlic cloves minced | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | 20 |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | 6 |
| Salt | to taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | to taste | 0 |
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Prepare the rice
Wash the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice in chicken broth until soft and fluffy. Keep it aside while you prepare the chicken and vegetables.
Cook the chicken
Season the chicken with paprika, salt, and black pepper before cooking. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and cook the chicken until golden. Remove the pieces from the pan and set them aside.
Sauté the vegetables
Add onions, peppers, and garlic to the same skillet. Cook until the vegetables become soft and slightly browned. The aroma of garlic and onion will fill the kitchen.
Combine everything
Slice the chicken into thin strips and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked rice and mix everything together well. Let the mixture heat through so all the ingredients blend.
Final touch
Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Allow the dish to cook for a couple of minutes more to enhance the taste. Serve hot for the best experience.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
For more variety try using red, yellow, and green peppers together. They make the dish more colorful and add different natural sweetness. You can also switch white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier choice.
If you prefer more spice add chili flakes, jalapenos, or a pinch of cayenne. Fresh parsley or cilantro sprinkled before serving makes the dish brighter. A little squeeze of lemon juice at the end gives a refreshing twist.
Nutritional Information
Chicken with peppers and onions rice is a balanced meal offering protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The vegetables bring fiber, vitamins, and minerals while olive oil adds heart friendly nutrients. Together these ingredients create a wholesome and energizing dish.
A single serving contains around 450 to 500 calories depending on portion size. Peppers add vitamin C while onions provide natural antioxidants. The combination supports immunity, energy levels, and overall health.
Cooking with chicken broth instead of water adds extra taste and nutrients. Choosing whole grain rice can further improve the fiber content. With these small adjustments the dish becomes even more nourishing.
Serving Suggestion
Serve the chicken with peppers and onions rice in deep bowls for a cozy feel. A light green salad on the side keeps the meal fresh and balanced. Warm bread can also be served to make it more hearty.
For family gatherings place the skillet in the center of the table. Garnish with lemon wedges or fresh parsley for brightness. The colorful mix of chicken, rice, and vegetables always looks inviting.
How to Store and Keep Fresh
Allow the dish to cool before transferring it into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating add a little broth or water to keep the rice soft.
For longer storage divide into portions and freeze in safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Make sure to heat thoroughly before serving to enjoy the best taste.
Conclusion
Chicken with peppers and onions rice is a satisfying recipe that balances taste and nutrition. It is simple to prepare and perfect for both quick meals and family dinners. The combination of chicken, peppers, onions, and rice always works well together.
With its versatility the dish can be easily customized for different preferences. It offers comfort, color, and nutrition in one pan. Once tried it is sure to become a favorite in many kitchens.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Yes you can use leftover rice which makes the recipe even quicker. Just add it to the skillet and warm it with chicken and vegetables. It is a great way to save time.
Q2. Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes you can add chili flakes, jalapenos, or cayenne pepper for more heat. Adjust the spice according to your liking. This gives the dish a lively kick.
Q3. What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?
You can include mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition. These vegetables cook quickly and mix well with rice. The dish remains versatile and colorful.
