Why This Chicken and Rice Recipe Is a Winner
Let’s start with the basics: Chicken and Rice is a match made in heaven. There’s something so comforting about a plate of tender chicken paired with perfectly seasoned rice. This recipe steps up the game with the use of fragrant garlic, ginger, and the umami-packed combo of soy sauce and ketchup manis (sweet soy sauce). The rice absorbs all the delicious flavours from the chicken and the sauce, making each bite absolutely irresistible. Plus, the addition of crunchy chilli oil gives the whole dish a zesty kick that takes it to the next level! 🌶️✨
The Star of the Show: Chicken Thighs 🍗
I always use chicken thighs for this Chicken and Rice recipe because they’re juicier and more flavourful than chicken breasts. Chicken thighs stay tender and moist throughout the cooking process, especially when cooked right on top of the rice. The chicken juices seep into the rice as it simmers, adding so much extra flavour. You can use bone-in or boneless thighs—whatever you prefer—but I recommend bone-in for maximum flavour!
If you prefer chicken breast, go ahead and make the swap! Just be sure to keep an eye on the cook time, as breasts can dry out a bit quicker than thighs. 🐓
Rice to the Rescue 🍚
For this Chicken and Rice recipe, I like to use basmati rice because of its light, fluffy texture and slightly nutty flavour. However, jasmine rice or even a long-grain rice would also work beautifully here. The trick is to toast the rice with garlic and ginger before adding the liquid. This really brings out its flavour and ensures the rice doesn’t turn mushy (nobody wants mushy rice!). Cooking the rice directly under the chicken makes it absorb all the delicious juices and stock, creating a beautifully seasoned, tender rice dish with a punch of flavour in every bite. 💥
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Rice:
- Use a heavy-based pan – This will help distribute heat evenly, ensuring that the rice cooks properly and doesn’t stick to the bottom.
- Toast the rice lightly – Don’t skip this step! It adds a lovely nutty flavour and ensures that the rice doesn’t become overly soft.
- Let the chicken sit on top – Placing the chicken on top of the rice lets the juices from the chicken drip into the rice, flavouring it even more!
- Don’t lift the lid too soon – Keep the lid on until the rice has finished cooking to trap all the steam and moisture in the pan. This guarantees perfectly fluffy rice every time.
Ingredients You Can’t Skip
- Ketchup Manis: This sweet soy sauce adds depth and a hint of caramel-like sweetness that’s key to balancing out the savoury flavours. If you can’t find it, use a mix of regular soy sauce and brown sugar.
- Crunchy Chilli Oil: This is optional, but trust me, it’s SO good. It gives the dish a little heat and a lovely crunch that makes every bite pop. You can find it at most Asian grocery stores or even online.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions 🥢
Similar Recipes You’ll Love ❤️
If you love this Chicken and Rice recipe, here are a few others to try:
Share Your Creations
Take a picture of your Chicken and Rice creation and tag me on Instagram at @steph_cooks_stuff. I’d love to see how you make this recipe your own! 📸
So, there you have it! A no-fuss, flavour-packed Chicken and Rice dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or just looking for a comforting meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Sometimes, you just want a meal that’s comforting and EASY, right? That’s where my Lazy Girl Chicken and Rice comes in. Super simple and loaded with flavour, it’s a one-pan wonder that’ll leave everyone smiling. Bonus? Minimal cleanup! 🙌
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grab a heavy-based pan and heat a little oil over medium heat.
- Toss in the garlic, ginger, and rice, and cook for a minute to get those delicious aromas going.
- Stir in your ketchup manis and light soy. Pour in the chicken stock, give it all a good stir, and add in your peas.
- Next, place your chicken thighs right on top of the rice. Season with pepper, pop on the lid, and bring the liquid to a boil.
- Once it’s bubbling, lower the heat and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is perfectly cooked. Check to make sure everything is just right.
- Finish by sprinkling over the sliced green onions, squeezing over some lime juice, and drizzling a little crunchy chilli oil for that extra kick! 🌶️👌 You’re done!
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Recipes
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Australian
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time.
Yes! You can layer everything in a slow cooker or rice cooker, but I recommend browning the chicken first to get the best flavour.
Totally! You can throw in any quick-cooking vegetables like peas, carrots, or even some chopped spinach. Just toss them in when you add the rice to keep everything simple.