Intro
Are you looking for a tasty and healthy meal that you can make in just 10 minutes? Look no further! This delicious chicken and rice recipe with fresh salad is sure to hit the spot! It's packed full of flavor and nutrition and is so easy to make. This 10-minute meal is perfect for busy days when you don't have a lot of time to cook. Plus, it's a great way to get your daily servings of vegetables, protein, and grains. Read on to find out how to make this delicious meal!
The Ingredients You Will Need
To create this delicious rice chicken meal with a fresh salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of white or brown rice
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups of mixed salad greens
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of feta cheese crumbles
- 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather these ingredients and get ready to create a flavorful and healthy meal in just 10 minutes!
Preparing the Rice
To begin making this delicious chicken and rice meal, you will need to prepare the rice first. Start by rinsing one cup of rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Then, add the rinsed rice to a saucepan with two cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring the rice to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the water is fully absorbed and the rice is cooked through. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can also cook the chicken in the oven by placing it on a baking sheet and baking at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces for the rice and salad. The juicy and flavorful chicken will be the perfect addition to this delicious and healthy meal.
Putting Together the Salad
Once the rice is cooked and the chicken is ready, it's time to put together a refreshing salad to complete this delicious meal. Start by washing and chopping your choice of fresh greens, such as lettuce or spinach. Add in some crunchy vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. For added flavor, sprinkle some feta cheese or toasted nuts over the top. Drizzle with a homemade vinaigrette or your favorite dressing. Toss everything together gently to evenly distribute the flavors. The vibrant colors and crisp textures of the salad will perfectly complement the savory chicken and fluffy rice. Enjoy!
Assembling the Meal
Once the rice is cooked and the chicken is perfectly grilled, it's time to assemble your delicious meal. Start by placing a generous portion of rice on a plate. Next, place the grilled chicken on top of the rice, allowing the flavors to mingle. Lastly, add a side of the fresh salad to bring some brightness to the dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of tangy dressing. Now, your mouthwatering chicken and rice meal with a side of salad is ready to be enjoyed!
Final Touches and Serving Tips
Once your meal is assembled, it's time for the final touches and serving tips. First, drizzle some olive oil over the salad and season it with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for some extra flavor. For the chicken and rice, you can sprinkle some chopped parsley or cilantro on top. To elevate the presentation of the dish, you can add some colorful veggies or fruits like cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, or grilled pineapple on the side. Serve the meal hot and enjoy!
