Chicken Ginger Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A delightful combination of tender chicken and fragrant ginger, served over a bed of fluffy rice.
This Chicken Ginger Rice recipe brings together the warmth of ginger and the heartiness of chicken, creating a dish that is both comforting and delicious. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Aromatic ginger enhances the flavor of tender chicken
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Nutritious and filling, making it a wholesome meal option
Aromatic Ginger: The Star Ingredient
Ginger is not just a flavor enhancer; it brings a host of health benefits to the table. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can help boost the immune system and aid digestion. In this Chicken Ginger Rice recipe, the fresh, grated ginger infuses the chicken with a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the dish beautifully. It's a perfect way to elevate a simple meal into something special.
In addition to its health benefits, ginger adds a unique spice that can transform everyday dishes. The sharpness of ginger balances the richness of the chicken, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Its warmth makes this dish comforting, ideal for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner
We all lead busy lives, and finding time to cook can be a challenge. This Chicken Ginger Rice recipe is designed with convenience in mind. With a total cooking time of under 30 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for weeknight dinners. The straightforward steps ensure that even novice cooks can create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Using common ingredients that you likely already have on hand, this recipe minimizes grocery shopping stress. Plus, the one-pan cooking method means fewer dishes to wash afterward, making cleanup a breeze. Your family will love the flavors, and you'll appreciate how quickly it comes together.
A Wholesome Meal for Everyone
This Chicken Ginger Rice is not only tasty but also a nutritious option for the whole family. Chicken breast is a lean protein source, essential for building and repairing tissues, while jasmine rice provides carbohydrates for energy. The inclusion of fresh vegetables like onions and green onions adds vitamins and minerals that boost the overall healthiness of the dish.
Whether you're feeding a family or preparing a meal for yourself, this recipe caters to a variety of dietary needs. It’s easily adjustable for those who may prefer to substitute chicken with tofu or another protein. This adaptability makes it a versatile dish that can please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Chicken Ginger Rice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped for garnish
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking to streamline the process.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Chicken Ginger Rice.
Cook the Rice
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, combine the rice and chicken broth, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
Sauté Chicken and Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and grated ginger, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Combine and Serve
Stir in the soy sauce and cooked rice into the skillet with the chicken mixture. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Ginger Rice as a complete meal!
Tips for Perfect Rice
To achieve the fluffiest jasmine rice, rinsing is key. This step removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky. Additionally, allowing the rice to rest after cooking helps it steam evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked grains that will serve as a lovely base for your chicken and ginger.
If you're looking to add extra flavor to your rice, consider cooking it in a mixture of chicken broth and a splash of soy sauce. This simple tweak enhances the overall taste of the dish, making the rice just as delightful as the chicken.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store the Chicken Ginger Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple; just add a splash of water to the rice to help it regain moisture and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the chicken and rice. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. This makes for a quick meal on busy days—just defrost and reheat for a delicious dinner!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, but note that brown rice will take longer to cook, approximately 45 minutes.
→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and rice ahead of time and reheat before serving.
→ What can I serve with Chicken Ginger Rice?
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple salad.
Chicken Ginger Rice
A delightful combination of tender chicken and fragrant ginger, served over a bed of fluffy rice.
Created by: Erin Wallace
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped for garnish
How-To Steps
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, combine the rice and chicken broth, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and grated ginger, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the soy sauce and cooked rice into the skillet with the chicken mixture. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 58g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 25g