Chicken Ginger Rice
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A delightful blend of tender chicken and fragrant ginger served over fluffy rice.
This Chicken Ginger Rice recipe is a favorite in our household. The combination of juicy chicken pieces and zesty ginger creates a comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Aromatic ginger adds a unique flavor twist
- Tender chicken cooked to perfection
- Easy to prepare for a weeknight dinner
Aromatic Ingredients
One of the standout features of Chicken Ginger Rice is the aromatic combination of ginger and garlic. Ginger, known for its warm and peppery flavor, not only enhances the dish but also offers numerous health benefits. It aids digestion, reduces nausea, and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a fantastic addition to your meal. Paired with garlic, which adds a savory depth, these ingredients create a harmonious balance that elevates the overall taste.
The choice of jasmine rice is also pivotal in this recipe. Known for its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture, jasmine rice complements the tender chicken beautifully. When cooked properly, it absorbs the flavors of the chicken and broth, creating a cohesive dish that feels comforting and satisfying. This type of rice is popular in many Asian cuisines and is perfect for soaking up sauces, making it an ideal base for this recipe.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Chicken Ginger Rice is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish fits the bill. Its simplicity allows you to focus on the quality of the ingredients, ensuring that each bite is flavorful without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Additionally, the recipe is easily adaptable. You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Adding seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas can also enhance the nutritional profile and provide extra color to your plate. This adaptability makes Chicken Ginger Rice a go-to recipe for any cook, regardless of skill level.
Meal Prep and Storage
One of the great advantages of Chicken Ginger Rice is its suitability for meal prep. You can make a large batch and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. Simply store the chicken and rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
If you want to extend the life of your meal, you can freeze the cooked chicken and rice. Just make sure to cool them completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. They can be stored for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes Chicken Ginger Rice a convenient option for busy individuals or families looking to save time without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Rice
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to use fresh ginger for the best flavor!
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Rice
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chicken thighs, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine and Serve
Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for another 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Serve the chicken over the jasmine rice, garnished with chopped green onions.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Ginger Rice!
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken Ginger Rice is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. They also contain important vitamins and minerals like B vitamins and zinc, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system.
Ginger, as mentioned earlier, is a powerhouse ingredient. It helps to combat inflammation and supports digestion. Combined with the antioxidants found in garlic and the complex carbohydrates from jasmine rice, this dish offers a balanced meal that can energize you throughout the day.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Chicken Ginger Rice experience, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables. Broccoli, carrots, or bok choy are excellent choices that add color and nutrients to your plate. A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar can also provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory flavors of the dish.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. Pairing this meal with a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea can round out the dining experience beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Chicken Ginger Rice
A delightful blend of tender chicken and fragrant ginger served over fluffy rice.
Created by: Chloe Baker
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken and Rice
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chicken thighs, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for another 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Serve the chicken over the jasmine rice, garnished with chopped green onions.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 54g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 25g