Name: Herb Chicken with Steamed Rice & Zucchini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt & pepper to taste; 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice; 1 1/2 cups water; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 tsp olive oil or butter; Optional: lemon juice for garnish

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Herb Chicken with Steamed Rice & Zucchini is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp zucchini. It is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for family and friends, this recipe is sure to please everyone.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy. The chicken is packed with protein, while the zucchini adds vitamins and fiber to your meal. Cooking the rice perfectly fluffy complements the dish nicely. Additionally, it’s an easy recipe, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, you can have it ready in about 30 minutes!

How to Make Herb Chicken with Steamed Rice & Zucchini

Ingredients:

1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
1 1/2 cups water
1 zucchini, sliced
1 tsp olive oil or butter
Optional: lemon juice for garnish

Directions:

In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add rice, cover, and simmer until fluffy (12–15 minutes).
Slice chicken into strips. Toss with olive oil, herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sear in a hot skillet for 4–5 minutes per side.
Heat oil in the same pan and cook zucchini slices until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
Layer fluffy rice, seared chicken, and zucchini on a plate.
Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon over everything for a zesty lift.

How to Serve Herb Chicken with Steamed Rice & Zucchini

Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet. You can plate it neatly with the rice at the bottom, followed by the chicken strips and zucchini on top. For an extra touch, drizzle with a little lemon juice. This adds a nice burst of flavor that everyone will love.

How to Store Herb Chicken with Steamed Rice & Zucchini

To store leftovers, place the chicken, rice, and zucchini in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Tips to Make Herb Chicken with Steamed Rice & Zucchini

Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the meat and keeps it juicy.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the zucchini. This allows them to brown nicely.
If you like your chicken with a bit of a kick, add some red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.

Variation

You can substitute chicken with fish or tofu for a different protein. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, depending on your preference.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine or basmati rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice. However, it will require a longer cooking time. Be sure to check the package for specific instructions.

2. Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time. Just follow the storing instructions for best results.

3. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add any vegetables you like! Great options include broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

This Herb Chicken with Steamed Rice & Zucchini recipe is a fantastic addition to your cooking repertoire. Enjoy making and sharing it with your loved ones!