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Chicken fillets with vegetables and basmati rice

⏱ 30 min🍳 23 min👤 4 pp★★★☆☆

I went to see my editor, and in her store cupboard were lots of spices from Jordan. We were hungry and I was inspired by all those colours! A chicken breast, two vegetables from the market and spices which simply jumped off a plate! But let's take a step back for a moment: why do dishes with oriental flavours often contain basmati rice? In Hindi the word basmati means "queen of fragrance", and it is a long-grain variety of rice, cultivated particularly in India and Pakistan. After cooking this rice becomes even longer but does not become too sticky or dry; its flavour is intense and pleasant, ideal for making exotic spicy dishes. As for the cooking, I will teach you in this recipe: one does not usually cook rice in boiling water as you do with pasta, but just in order to absorb the water .... And please: never use it to make risotto alla Milanese. .. it will be a disaster!

Ingredients

Nutritional values 380 kcal / serving
Protein
32g
Carbohydrates
52g
Fat
6g
Fiber
3g

* approximate values per serving

Information
30 minutes Total time
23 minutes Active time
Serves 4 persons
★★★☆☆ Challenging

Preparation

Cook the basmati rice as you would for sushi, with just a pinch of salt in the water. So: cover the rice with one inch of water, and cook for 13 minutes over low heat with the lid on, and then leave for another 10 minutes with the heat off, again without taking the lid off. Cut the vegetables and chicken into large cubes of the same size. Put the chicken in to marinate with the finely chopped garlic and spices. Sauté the vegetables in hot oil, seasoning with the spices and salt and then remove from heat. Sauté the chicken in the same pan, then add the vegetables. Serve the pieces of chicken with vegetables and basmati rice.

Tips
Be very careful with the timing and method of cooking your basmati rice, since it is much more tender and delicate than common rice: after cooking in water, allowing it to absorb the latter, you must then steam it.
Trivia
The term ‘basmati’ rice comes from the Hindi language with the original meaning "queen of fragrance", a particularly apposite name.

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
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Additional information

Chicken Pieces with Vegetables and Basmati Rice Curry

A delicious variant of chicken pieces with vegetables and basmati rice is the addition of curry, which makes the dish even more aromatic and flavorful. To prepare this version, simply combine a generous amount of curry powder during the marination of the chicken, along with minced garlic. Vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, and yellow bell peppers can be sautéed in a pan with a drizzle of oil and a sprinkle of curry, to create a harmony of flavors that pairs perfectly with basmati rice. This dish will not only be a burst of colors but also a feast for the palate, ideal for a family dinner or with friends.

Chicken Pieces with Indian-Style Vegetables

If you desire a culinary experience that evokes the flavors of India, you can prepare chicken pieces with vegetables in Indian style. In this variant, the chicken and vegetables are cooked together with typical spices, such as cinnamon and curry. The marination of the chicken, enriched with garlic, helps to enhance the oriental aromas. The vegetables, cooked in a hot pan, absorb the flavors of the spices, creating a rich and enveloping dish. Serve this dish hot, accompanied by basmati rice, for a meal that will transport you directly to India.

Light Chicken Pieces with Vegetables and Basmati Rice

For those who are mindful of their figure, chicken pieces with vegetables and basmati rice can be prepared in a light version, reducing the amount of oil and favoring lighter cooking methods. Use chicken breast, which is lean and rich in protein, and steam it along with vegetables like zucchini and carrots. You can also opt for basmati rice cooked without the addition of butter or oil. This preparation not only maintains the flavor of the original dish but is also an excellent choice for those who wish to maintain a balanced and healthy diet without sacrificing taste.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Pieces with Vegetables and Basmati Rice

Chicken pieces with vegetables and basmati rice offer numerous nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. Vegetables, such as zucchini and carrots, provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to overall well-being. Finally, basmati rice is a complex carbohydrate that provides long-term energy. On average, a serving of chicken pieces with vegetables and basmati rice provides about 400-500 calories, making it a complete and balanced meal. This dish is perfect for those seeking a healthy and tasty diet.

Can Chicken Pieces with Vegetables and Basmati Rice be Frozen?

Yes, chicken pieces with vegetables and basmati rice can be frozen. It is advisable to do so after the dish has completely cooled, to avoid the formation of ice crystals. For best results, divide the portions into airtight containers or food bags, ensuring to remove excess air. When you wish to consume them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours or in the microwave, and then reheat them in a pan or oven. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal even on the busiest days, without compromising on quality and flavor.