Herb Chicken with Brown Rice & Carrots
Herb Chicken with Brown Rice & Carrots
Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare? Look no further than this Herb Chicken with Brown Rice & Carrots recipe. With its tender and flavorful herb-infused chicken, fluffy brown rice, and vibrant roasted carrots, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is a winner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons to love this Herb Chicken with Brown Rice & Carrots recipe. Firstly, it is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have a wholesome and delicious meal on the table in no time. Secondly, it is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of protein, whole grains, and vegetables. This makes it a great option for those who are conscious of their dietary intake. Lastly, the herb-infused chicken adds a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Herb Chicken with Brown Rice & Carrots:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare Herb Chicken with Brown Rice & Carrots:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped thyme, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and rub them with the herb mixture. Make sure to coat both sides evenly.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the brown rice according to the package instructions, using chicken broth instead of water for added flavor.
- In a separate baking dish, toss the carrot sticks with honey and a pinch of salt. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Once everything is ready, serve the herb-infused chicken over a bed of fluffy brown rice, accompanied by the roasted carrots. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some expert tips to ensure your Herb Chicken with Brown Rice & Carrots turns out perfectly:
- Make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry before rubbing them with the herb mixture. This will help the herbs adhere better and result in a more flavorful chicken.
- If you prefer a stronger herb flavor, you can marinate the chicken breasts in the herb mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
- For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice to the roasted carrots before serving.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can substitute with dried herbs. Just use half the amount called for in the recipe.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your preferences:
– You can substitute the brown rice with quinoa or couscous for a different grain option.
– If you’re vegetarian, you can replace the chicken breasts with tofu or tempeh.
– Add some extra vegetables to the mix, such as broccoli or bell peppers, for added color and nutrition.
– If you prefer a spicier kick, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the chicken before baking.
Serving Suggestions
To make the most of your Herb Chicken with Brown Rice & Carrots, consider the following serving suggestions:
– Serve with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
– Pair with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the flavors of the dish.
– For a complete meal, serve with a side of steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts.
FAQs
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Bone-in chicken will work just as well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Q: Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
A: While brown rice is recommended for its nutritional benefits and nutty flavor, you can substitute with white rice if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly shorter.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover herb-infused chicken, brown rice, or roasted carrots separately in airtight containers. Just make sure to thaw and reheat them properly before serving.
Final Thoughts
Herb Chicken with Brown Rice & Carrots is a versatile and wholesome dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress. With its flavorful herb-infused chicken, fluffy brown rice, and roasted carrots, it’s a complete meal that checks all the boxes. Give it a try and enjoy the deliciousness!
We hope you enjoyed this recipe. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience and any variations you tried. Bon appétit!
Herb Chicken with Brown Rice & Carrots
A delicious and nutritious meal featuring herb-infused chicken, fluffy brown rice, and vibrant roasted carrots. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, providing a well-balanced combination of protein, whole grains, and vegetables.
Ingredients
-
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
-
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
1 cup brown rice
-
2 cups chicken broth
-
4 large carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
-
1 tablespoon honey
-
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped thyme, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
-
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and rub them with the herb mixture. Make sure to coat both sides evenly.
-
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
-
Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
-
While the chicken is baking, prepare the brown rice according to the package instructions, using chicken broth instead of water for added flavor.
-
In a separate baking dish, toss the carrot sticks with honey and a pinch of salt. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
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Once everything is ready, serve the herb-infused chicken over a bed of fluffy brown rice, accompanied by the roasted carrots. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.