Delicious Chicken and Rice with Vegetables

This flavorful dish of chicken and rice with vegetables is a delightful combination of tender poultry, fragrant basmati rice, and fresh vegetables, all brought together with a savory sauce. It's an excellent choice for a family dinner or a casual gathering. The carrots add a slight sweetness, while parsley and optional herbs like dill and chives offer a fragrant touch. The dish is seasoned with bay leaves, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors. A rich, creamy sauce made from the chicken broth and enriched with an egg yolk rounds out the dish. With a preparation time of just 45 minutes, it's both quick and easy to make, yet satisfying and hearty. Modifications can easily be made to cater to different dietary needs or preferences. Pair it with a crisp salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. This recipe will guide you through the preparation of this delicious and comforting dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 200 g chicken
• 200 g basmati rice
• 25 g carrots
• 25 g parsley
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

• Dill
• Chives

Sauce Ingredients

• 5 g all-purpose flour
• 10 g butter
• 80 g chicken broth (from cooking chicken)
• 1/2 egg yolk

Preparation Time

• Total: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by boiling water in two separate pots. One will be used for cooking the rice, and the other for the chicken and vegetables.
2. In the first pot, add the basmati rice and cook until soft. Once done, drain and set aside.
3. In the second pot, place the chicken along with the sliced carrots, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Add optional herbs like dill and chives if desired.
4. Cook the chicken until it is fully cooked through and tender. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, strain the broth into a separate container. Set aside the broth, as it will be used for the sauce.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and slice it into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
7. For the sauce, begin by melting the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
8. Add the flour to the melted butter, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux.
9. Gradually add the reserved chicken broth to the roux, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
10. Bring the sauce mixture to a gentle boil, allowing it to thicken slightly.
11. In a small bowl, beat the egg yolk and slowly incorporate it into the sauce while whisking. This will give the sauce a rich and creamy texture.
12. Continue to whisk until everything is well combined and the sauce is smooth.
13. Adjust the seasoning of the sauce with additional salt and pepper if needed, then remove it from heat.
14. Combine the cooked rice with the chicken and vegetable mixture, stirring gently to mix well.
15. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and rice, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
16. Mix everything together thoroughly, allowing the flavors to meld.
17. Transfer the chicken and rice to a serving dish.
18. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or fresh herbs if desired.
19. Serve the dish warm alongside your choice of side dishes.
20. Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken and rice with vegetables!

Tips

• For a healthier version, consider using brown rice instead of white basmati rice.
• Substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
• Feel free to add more vegetables, such as peas or bell peppers, for extra flavor and nutrients.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Protein: 35g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbs: 45g

Variations

• For a vegan option, replace the chicken with chickpeas and the egg yolk with a plant-based thickening agent.
• Add a teaspoon of curry powder to the sauce for a spicy twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Serve with a crusty bread roll to soak up the delicious sauce.

Best Places

• The Chicken Spot - Known for its variety of chicken dishes with international flavors. Location: 123 Culinary Lane, New York, USA.
• Flavors of India - Famous for its Indian-inspired grilled chicken and rice dishes. Location: 45 Spice Avenue, London, UK.
• Bistro Bites - Offers a cozy setting with a menu full of comfort food, including chicken and rice combinations. Location: 78 Harmony Road, Paris, France.
• Eastern Delights - Specializes in Asian cuisine with a focus on rice-based meals. Location: 56 Lotus Street, Tokyo, Japan.
• The Rustic Table - Provides a laid-back ambiance and hearty meals such as chicken with roasted vegetables and rice. Location: 89 Old Town Road, Sydney, Australia.
• Cafe Vivre - A charming cafe offering inspired by traditional European recipes, including chicken and rice. Location: 34 Verity Lane, Montreal, Canada.
• Global Grill - Features dishes from around the world, including chicken and rice with exotic spices. Location: 77 Nomad Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Piquant Plates - Known for its fusion dishes that include creative takes on chicken and rice. Location: 21 Market Boulevard, Mumbai, India.
• Urban Eats - Modern eatery with a menu full of fresh and trendy meals, including chicken and rice bowls. Location: 63 Metro Drive, Singapore.
• Southern Comfort - Offers hearty and warm meals that remind diners of home-cooked comforts, including chicken and rice with homestyle sauces. Location: 52 Southern Street, Dallas, USA.