Savory Herb Grilled Chicken Breast with Rice

Looking for a satisfying meal that won’t derail your healthy eating habits? This savory herb grilled chicken breast with rice ticks all the boxes. It’s straightforward to prepare, making it one of those easy chicken breast recipes healthy enough for any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth or water to a boil. Add the rice, stir, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and divide it among plates. Top with grilled chicken and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinate Time: 30 minutes (optional)
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour (including marination)

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

With boneless chicken breast recipes easy to find, this one stands out thanks to its simple yet flavorful marinade. You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.

This chicken dish is not just about convenience; it’s also packed with nutrients. The juicy chicken breast pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, creating a well-rounded meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

An Easy and Healthy Chicken Recipe

This herb grilled chicken breast recipe features tender, juicy chicken marinated with fresh herbs and spices. Served over a bed of fluffy rice, it’s a wholesome dish that brings together simple ingredients for a delightful meal.

The taste is vibrant, with aromatic herbs enhancing the chicken’s natural flavor. On the other hand, the rice adds a comforting texture that makes every bite enjoyable.

Preparation and Marination

The essence of this dish begins with the marination process. A combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a blend of dried herbs creates a flavorful soak for the chicken.

Allow the chicken breasts to marinate for at least 30 minutes, although longer is recommended for deeper flavor. This step is crucial, as it infuses the meat with the fragrant notes of thyme and oregano.

Cooking the Rice

While the chicken is marinating, attention can shift to preparing the rice. Using low-sodium chicken broth amplifies the flavor while keeping the dish balanced.

Cooking the long-grain white rice until fluffy is essential for achieving the ideal base for the grilled chicken. A covered saucepan over low heat ensures that the grains remain tender without becoming mushy.

Grilling the Chicken

Once marinated, the chicken is ready for the grill. Preheating the grill or grill pan ensures those beautiful char marks while sealing in the juices.

Grilling for approximately 6-7 minutes per side allows the chicken to cook through thoroughly while reaching the desired internal temperature. The result is succulent chicken that pairs perfectly with the rice.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation

When serving, fluff the rice and create a bed on the plate for the grilled chicken. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a hint of freshness to the dish.

For an extra touch of flavor, a lemon wedge serves as a delightful garnish. The bright acidity of the lemon enhances the overall taste experience, making every bite more enjoyable.

Enjoying a Wholesome Meal

This dish is an excellent option for those looking for easy chicken breast recipes healthy enough for any day of the week. The combination of protein-rich chicken and carbohydrates from the rice creates a filling meal.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend, this recipe provides a satisfying culinary experience without complicated steps. Serve it to family or friends for a wholesome gathering that everyone will appreciate.

An Easy and Healthy Chicken Recipe

This herb grilled chicken breast recipe features tender, juicy chicken marinated with fresh herbs and spices. Served over a bed of fluffy rice, it’s a wholesome dish that brings together simple ingredients for a delightful meal.

The taste is vibrant, with aromatic herbs enhancing the chicken’s natural flavor, while the rice adds a comforting texture that makes every bite enjoyable.

FAQ

• Q: What’s the best way to cook chicken breast and rice together so the rice isn’t mushy?A: One-pot methods are great, but timing is key! You can cook the rice separately and add the cooked chicken at the end, or use a method where you add the rice partway through cooking the chicken. This, or cooking the ingredients separately, will both help to not overcook the rice.
• Q: How can I make boneless chicken breast and rice recipes more flavorful?A: Don’t be shy with seasonings! Use flavorful broths, herbs, spices, and marinades to amp up the taste. Consider adding vegetables like onions, garlic, peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Q: Are there any healthy chicken breast and rice recipes that are also quick to make?
  A: Yes! The instapot is great for making quick meals with this combination. Look for recipes using pre-cooked or leftover rotisserie chicken, or quick-cooking rice varieties like instant rice or pre-cooked rice pouches. One-pan or sheet-pan meals are also great for minimal cleanup and faster prep.