It is 6pm and your family is hungry. You want something healthy but do not want a messy kitchen. This high protein garlic chicken rice is your new secret weapon.
It is warm, savory, and incredibly satisfying for everyone. You can feed your whole family with just one pan. It delivers a fresh, aromatic dinner in under an hour.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
You will love how this recipe saves your busy evening. It is perfect for a healthy reset after a long weekend. This dish is also a dream for your weekly meal prep.
You get lean protein and fluffy rice in every single bite. It feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The garlic and ginger make your kitchen smell amazing. Even picky eaters will ask for seconds of this meal.
Simple Method
Making this is so simple for any beginner cook. You just sear the chicken and toast the rice. Everything simmers together in one single deep skillet. This means minimal cleanup for you once dinner is over.
You will feel like a pro in your kitchen. The steps are easy to follow and very fast. It is practically foolproof for a busy Tuesday night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely in your pantry right now.
- 600g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 1.5 cups jasmine rice, rinsed until water runs clear
- 2.25 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
Step-by-Step
- Heat olive oil in a large deep-sided skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
- Sear chicken for 5-6 minutes until golden brown on all sides, then remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed jasmine rice to the pan and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat the grains in the residual fats.
- Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any fond.
- Return the chicken to the pan and bring the liquid to a rolling boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the steam to finish the texture.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, stir in the sesame oil and sliced green onions, then serve.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this high protein garlic chicken rice in big bowls. Add a side of steamed broccoli or crisp snap peas. It is great for a relaxed weeknight dinner at the table.
You can also pack it into glass containers for work. It stays fresh and delicious for days. Pair it with a drizzle of sriracha for a little extra kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store your leftovers in airtight containers for four days. This dish stays moist and flavorful when you reheat it. Use a microwave with a splash of water to keep rice fluffy. You can also freeze portions for a quick future meal. It is the ultimate meal prep staple for your busy life.
Tips for Best Results
- Rinse your rice thoroughly until the water runs clear.
- Don’t skip toasting the rice for a deeper nutty flavor.
- Use freshly minced garlic rather than the jarred kind.
- Let the rice rest covered to ensure a perfect texture.
- Cut your chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Double the recipe if you are cooking for a crowd.
- Add a handful of fresh summer peas for a pop of color.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap soy sauce for tamari to make it gluten-free.
- Use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier dark meat.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy garlic version.
- Stir in baby spinach at the end for extra greens.
Common Questions
Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, but you will need more liquid and time. Check your rice package for specific ratios. Brown rice adds a nice chewy texture to the dish.
Will my kids enjoy this?
Most kids love the mild, savory flavor of garlic and rice. Cut the chicken into smaller bite-sized pieces for them. It is a very family-friendly meal.
I hope this simple, high protein garlic chicken rice makes your weeknights easier. It is a cozy meal that feels good to serve. Enjoy every savory bite with your family!
— Lidia
High Protein Garlic Chicken Rice
Ingredients
- 600 g boneless , skinless chicken breast, cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 1.5 cups jasmine rice, rinsed until water runs clear
- 2.25 cups low -sodium chicken broth
- 6 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 4 green onions , thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large deep-sided skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
- Sear chicken for 5-6 minutes until golden brown on all sides, then remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed jasmine rice to the pan and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat the grains in the residual fats.
- Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any fond.
- Return the chicken to the pan and bring the liquid to a rolling boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the steam to finish the texture.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, stir in the sesame oil and sliced green onions, then serve.
