Spiced Chicken with Vegetable Stir-Fry and Rice

Spiced Chicken with Vegetable Stir-Fry and Rice

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For a healthy, satisfying meal with a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs, try this Spiced Chicken with Vegetable Stir-Fry and Rice recipe. With tender, spiced chicken, vibrant veggies, and fluffy rice, this dish is not only nutritious but also packed with flavor. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, providing a wholesome meal in one plate that’s both easy to prepare and delicious.

Spiced Chicken with Vegetable Stir-Fry and Rice Ingredients:

For the Spiced Chicken:

  • Chicken breasts – 2, cut into thin strips
  • Olive oil – 2 tbsp (for marinating and cooking)
  • Garlic powder – 1 tsp
  • Paprika – 1 tsp
  • Cumin – 1/2 tsp
  • Salt and pepper – To taste

For the Vegetable Stir-Fry:

  • Broccoli florets – 1 cup
  • Bell peppers – 1 red, 1 yellow, sliced
  • Carrot – 1 large, julienned
  • Snap peas – 1/2 cup
  • Onion – 1 small, sliced
  • Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
  • Soy sauce – 2 tbsp (low-sodium preferred)
  • Ginger – 1/2 tsp, freshly grated
  • Sesame oil – 1 tsp (optional, for a nutty flavor)

For the Rice:

  • White or brown rice – 1 cup (uncooked)
  • Water or broth – For cooking the rice, according to package instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, stirring to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for 10-15 minutes to absorb the spices and enhance its flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
  2. In a pot, add the rice and water (or broth for extra flavor) according to package instructions. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until fully cooked and fluffy, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

  1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the marinated chicken strips and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
  2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Pour in the soy sauce and add the grated ginger. Stir well, coating the vegetables evenly. If desired, add a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Vegetables

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
  2. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 6: Serve with Rice

  1. Serve the spiced chicken and vegetable stir-fry over a bed of fluffy rice.
  2. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired for added flavor and texture.

Tips for Perfect Spiced Chicken Stir-Fry:

  • Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances its flavor and tenderness.
  • Cook vegetables quickly: Stir-frying on high heat keeps the vegetables crisp and colorful. Avoid overcooking to retain their texture and nutrients.
  • Use low-sodium soy sauce: This helps control the saltiness of the dish and keeps it healthier.

Nutritional Benefits:

This Spiced Chicken with Vegetable Stir-Fry and Rice is packed with lean protein from the chicken, fiber, and vitamins from the fresh vegetables. Using a variety of vegetables adds essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, while rice provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

Spiced Chicken with Vegetable Stir-Fry and Rice Variations:

  • Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth to cook the rice.
  • Add more spices: For a bolder flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes or curry powder to the chicken marinade.
  • Switch up the veggies: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or baby corn.

Conclusion:

This Spiced Chicken with Vegetable Stir-Fry and Rice is a wholesome, balanced meal that’s easy to customize and prepare. It’s a great option for busy weeknights when you want a healthy, filling dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen. With its rich blend of spices, colorful vegetables, and tender chicken, this dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious, nutritious meal. Give it a try and enjoy a satisfying and flavorful dinner that’s sure to become a household favorite!

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