Irresistible Chicken Over Rice: A Flavorful Delight

Name: Chicken Over Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1 cup peas and carrots (fresh or frozen)

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

December 28, 2025

Updated:

December 28, 2025

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There’s something utterly delightful about the aroma of chicken over rice wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? Picture this: succulent pieces of chicken, marinated just right, sizzling away in the pan while fluffy rice awaits its flavorful companion. The moment that steam hits your face, you know dinner is going to be epic.

Now, let me take you back to the last family gathering where I served this dish. Imagine my aunt’s eyes widening in disbelief as she took her first bite, followed by an enthusiastic “This is the best thing since sliced bread!” And let me tell you, if that doesn’t build anticipation for this flavor explosion, I don’t know what will!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken over rice recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights

Its savory flavors meld beautifully, creating a meal that satisfies everyone
The colorful presentation is sure to impress at any dinner table

Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with whatever veggies are in your fridge!

I once served this dish during a family reunion, and my cousin proclaimed it “the ultimate comfort food.” His satisfied smile made all the effort worth it.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust according to how many guests you’re feeding.

Long-Grain Rice: Use long-grain or basmati rice for a fluffy texture that pairs well with the chicken.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth adds depth without overwhelming saltiness; it’s key for cooking the rice.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; garlic is the heart of this dish.

Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and richness; sauté until translucent for optimal results.
Olive Oil: This helps brown the chicken perfectly; feel free to substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce for balanced flavor without excessive salt.

Spices (Cumin & Paprika): These spices provide warmth and complexity; don’t skip them!
Vegetables (Peas & Carrots): Add these for color and nutrition; fresh or frozen work well.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your onion and garlic finely while ensuring your chicken breasts are thawed and patted dry. This sets you up for success.

Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet on medium heat, add olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once shimmering, place your chicken breasts in the pan and cook until golden brown on both sides—about 5-6 minutes per side.

Add Aromatics: Remove the chicken temporarily from the skillet. In the same pan, toss in your chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent—this should take around 3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce along with spices like cumin and paprika. Stir everything together so every bit of goodness sticks to that glorious chicken.

Add Rice & Broth: Sprinkle in your rinsed rice evenly across the pan. Pour in chicken broth—just enough to cover everything—and bring it to a boil.

Simmer Away: Lower the heat and cover with a lid. Let everything simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes until rice absorbs all that delicious broth. Check occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom!

Enjoying home-cooked meals like chicken over rice can transform an ordinary day into something special. With every bite filled with juicy flavors mingling with tender rice, you’ll find yourself smiling at how simple yet satisfying this dish truly is!

You Must Know

This chicken over rice recipe is a delightful blend of savory spices and tender chicken
The aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone curious about dinner
It’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sauces and sides, ensuring a satisfying meal every time

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes; this enhances flavor. Sear it in a hot pan until golden brown, then simmer on low while preparing the fluffy rice for an optimal dinner experience.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp if you’re feeling adventurous. Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra color and nutrition, or top with fresh herbs to brighten the dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave until hot or warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of water for moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always let the chicken rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy and flavorful
Use high-quality rice to enhance texture and taste
Don’t skip the marination; it’s key for a mouthwatering result!

Cooking this chicken over rice reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would gather around the table, plates piled high, laughter echoing through the room as we dug into seconds—good times indeed!

FAQs

FAQ

What type of rice works best for chicken over rice?

Basmati or jasmine rice adds great flavor and aroma to this dish.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking.

How can I spice it up more?

Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes during cooking for an extra kick!

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