Chicken breast with rice and vegetable stew

Chicken breast with rice and vegetable stew

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

I propose a delicious and nutritious recipe for chicken breast with rice and vegetable stew, perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. This dish is not only tasty but also healthy, being an excellent source of protein and vitamins. Let's see how you can achieve a perfect result!

Ingredients:
- 500 g chicken breast, diced
- 200 g rice (preferably basmati or arborio)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 100 g peas (can be fresh or frozen)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 500 ml chicken broth or water
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon herbs de Provence (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparation:
1. Start by preparing the rice. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, which will help achieve a fluffy texture at the end. Allow it to drain.

2. Meanwhile, clean and wash the vegetables. You can choose to cut them into larger cubes for added texture or smaller ones, depending on your preferences.

3. In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the garlic and continue to sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

4. Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Sauté the chicken until it turns golden on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Once the chicken is browned, add the carrot, bell pepper, and peas. Continue cooking for 5 minutes to soften the vegetables, stirring occasionally.

6. Add the drained rice and chicken broth (or water). Mix well to combine the ingredients. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes tender.

7. After the rice is done, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. This step will help the rice fluff up even more.

8. Before serving, add the herbs de Provence and gently mix with a fork to fluff the rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of flavor and freshness.

Serving suggestions:
This chicken breast rice stew is served warm, perfect alongside a fresh green salad or a portion of yogurt sauce with mint for a refreshing contrast. You can also add a few slices of lemon for a tangy note that will highlight the flavors.

Variations:
To adapt the recipe to your preferences or available ingredients, you can substitute the chicken breast with turkey meat or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to give it a personal touch.

This simple and quick recipe for chicken breast with rice and vegetable stew will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite and savor family meals!