Delicious homemade Budget Chicken Rice - easy recipe with step-by-step instructions

Budget Chicken Rice

This Budget Chicken Rice recipe is a delicious and cost-effective meal perfect for families. Combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and simple seasonings, it creates a satisfying dish that doesn't break the bank. Ideal for busy weeknights, it's easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

⏱️
10
min prep time
🔥
35
min cook time
🍽️
4
servings
📊
easy
difficulty

🛒Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 green onions, chopped (optional)

🔧Kitchen Tools Needed

  • large skillet
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • spatula

📝Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. 2

    Add the diced chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. 3

    Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

  4. 4

    In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  5. 5

    Add the rice to the skillet, stirring frequently, and cook for 2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.

  6. 6

    Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the frozen peas and carrots, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme.

  7. 7

    Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mix well, and bring the mixture to a boil.

  8. 8

    Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

  9. 9

    Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.

  10. 10

    Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve hot.

🥗Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 380

🏷️Recipe Tags

budget-friendlyeasyone-pot mealfamily-friendlyquick

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as chicken breasts cook faster.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.

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