Chicken and Rice Recipe
Chicken and rice is a very easy and tasty food that many people like. It is simple to cook and you do not need too many things to make it. This recipe is perfect when you want to eat something warm, filling, and homemade. You can make it for lunch or dinner, and even kids love it. You just need chicken, rice, and some simple spices that are already in your kitchen. This food is also healthy because it has protein from chicken and energy from rice. Let’s learn how to make this step-by-step in a very easy way.
What You Need to Make Chicken and Rice
Before we start cooking, let’s see what things you need. All the ingredients are very basic and cheap. You can find them in every kitchen or a nearby shop.
Ingredients
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1 cup rice (any type, like basmati or long grain)
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2 chicken thighs or breast pieces (cut into small pieces)
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1 chopped onion
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1 chopped tomato
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2 garlic cloves (chopped)
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1 teaspoon salt (as per taste)
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1 teaspoon turmeric powder
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1 teaspoon red chili powder (or less if you don’t like spicy)
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1 teaspoon cumin seeds
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2 tablespoons oil
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2 cups water
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Few coriander leaves (optional for garnish)
How to Cook Chicken and Rice?
Now let’s talk about how to cook this recipe. We will use just one pot to make it easy and fast. You don’t need to wash many dishes later. Just follow these simple steps.
Step 1: Wash and Prepare Rice
First, take one cup of rice and wash it well in water two or three times. Soak the rice in water and keep it aside for 10 minutes. This helps rice to become soft and cook well.
Step 2: Cut the Chicken and Vegetables
Now take the chicken and cut it into small bite-sized pieces. Also, chop the onion, tomato, and garlic. Keep everything ready before you start cooking.
Step 3: Start Cooking
Take one big pot or deep pan. Put it on medium flame. Add two tablespoons of oil and let it heat for a few seconds. Now add cumin seeds and let them crackle. After that, add chopped garlic and fry it until light brown. Now add chopped onions and cook until they become soft and golden.
Step 4: Add Tomato and Spices
Once onions are cooked, add the chopped tomato. Cook it for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft. Then add salt, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Mix everything nicely and let it cook for 2 more minutes so the spices mix well.
Step 5: Add Chicken
Now add the chicken pieces to the pot. Mix well with the onion-tomato-spice mixture. Let the chicken cook for 5–7 minutes until it changes color and looks white. Keep stirring sometimes so it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Step 6: Add Rice and Water
After the chicken is half-cooked, drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Mix gently so the rice does not break. Add two cups of water. Stir once and check the salt. If needed, add a little more salt now.
Step 7: Cook the Rice
Now cover the pot with a lid. Let the chicken and rice cook together on medium flame for 10–12 minutes. Do not open the lid too many times. After that, lower the flame and cook for 5 more minutes. Once the water is gone and the rice looks soft, your food is ready.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Turn off the gas and let the pot stay covered for 5 minutes. This helps the rice to set and not break when you serve. Open the lid slowly and mix gently. You can sprinkle some fresh coriander leaves if you like.
Also Read: Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe | Easy Homemade Delight
Why This Recipe is Good for Everyone
Chicken and rice is a dish that everyone can eat. It is not too spicy, so even kids or old people can enjoy it. It is made in one pot, so it saves time and cleaning. You can eat it with plain curd, pickle, or even just like that. You can make it at home even if you don’t know much about cooking. It is also budget-friendly and doesn’t take too much time. If you are tired or busy, this is a perfect recipe for you.
Extra Tips for the Best Taste
If you want more flavor, you can add a small spoonful of garam masala or lemon juice at the end. You can also add peas or small chopped carrots if you want to add vegetables. But even the simple version is tasty and comforting. You can keep leftovers in the fridge and eat them the next day, too. Just heat it in the microwave or on the gas with a little water.