Best 2 Healthy Chicken And Rice Recipes

In today's health-conscious world, creating a balanced and wholesome meal has become a priority for many. Among the numerous healthy food options, "healthy chicken and rice" stands out as a classic combination that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this article aims to guide you through the process of crafting the perfect healthy chicken and rice dish. With a focus on using wholesome ingredients, simple cooking techniques, and tips for customization, we'll help you create a delicious and nutritious meal that's sure to satisfy your taste buds and contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

HEALTHY MEALS MONDAY: CAFE RIO SLOW COOKER CHICKEN AND CILANTRO RICE

Healthy Meals Monday: Cafe Rio Slow Cooker Chicken and Cilantro Rice image

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

Chicken
8 oz (light or fat free) Italian dressing - about half a bottle
1 Tablespoon cumin
1 Tablespoon chili powder
3lbs frozen chicken breasts
Rice
2 cups uncooked brown rice
2 cups chopped cilantro
1 cup salsa verde (green salsa)
1 bunch green onions
4 cups of water
A pinch of salt

Steps:

Mix cumin, chili powder & dressing in bowl
Place frozen chicken breasts in crock pot
Pour mixture over chicken & cover
Cook on high for 5 hrs or on low for 7 to 8. Shred chicken in the crockpot and mix it well.
Wash and chop the cilantro. Mix the cilantro with 2 cups of water and pour in the pan for cooking the rice. Add two more cups of water, the salt, Salsa Verde, and onion. Bring to a boil. Stir in the rice in the boiling water. Cover and turn down heat to very low; steam for 30 minutes. Makes about 10 servings.
Put it all together with Toppings:
Cook whole wheat burrito tortillas on non-greased skillet 10-15 seconds on each side
Put Chicken, Cilantro Rice, black beans, avocado, lowfat cheese, cilantro, tomatoes, (I also added red pepper, green onions and spinach) inside of tortilla.
Add anything else you like (fat free sour cream, salsa, etc.)
Roll up your tortilla and eat your delicious and healthy Cafe Rio Burrito!

Nutrition Facts : Servingsize 1 serving, Calories 3045 kcal, Fat 132 g, SaturatedFat 37 g, Cholesterol 871 mg, Sodium 4881 mg, Carbohydrate 149 g, Sugar 25 g, Protein 298 mg

HEALTHY GRILLED CHICKEN-AND-RICE FOIL PACKS

Healthy Grilled Chicken-and-Rice Foil Packs image

If you're looking to grill something besides burgers and dogs on your next campout, this low-fat chicken dinner will do the trick. Be sure to use converted rice instead of regular for this recipe (each grain contains tiny pinholes so it cooks faster than conventional rice). If you're in the wilderness, wash out your pie dish after dinner and use it to pan for gold.

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Categories main-dish

Time 30m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
One 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup converted rice
1 cup salsa
2 tablespoons pickled jalapeno slices, finely chopped
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
Kosher salt
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 scallions, thinly sliced

Steps:

Prepare a grill for medium heat.
Put the chicken, beans, rice, salsa, pickled jalapenos, tomato paste, chili powder, turmeric and 3/4 teaspoon salt in a large bowl and toss to combine. Divide the chicken-rice mixture evenly among the pie pans, spreading it out in an even layer. Pour 1/2 cup of chicken broth into each pie pan.
Cover each pan tightly with foil. Put the pans on the grill, close the grill lid and cook for 20 minutes. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.
Carefully remove the foil from each pan (hot steam will escape). The liquid should be absorbed, the rice tender and the chicken cooked through. Sprinkle each with some scallions.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 370 calorie, Fat 3.5 grams, SaturatedFat 1 grams, Cholesterol 55 milligrams, Sodium 970 milligrams, Carbohydrate 58 grams, Fiber 4 grams, Protein 25 grams, Sugar 11 grams

Tips:

Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, organic chicken and vegetables will make a big difference in the flavor of your dish.
Don't overcrowd the pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure to give it enough space so that it can brown evenly. If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken will steam instead of brown.
Season the chicken well: Before cooking, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and other spices to taste. This will help to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
Cook the chicken thoroughly: Make sure to cook the chicken until it is cooked through. This will help to prevent foodborne illness.
Use a variety of vegetables: Don't be afraid to experiment with different vegetables in your chicken and rice dish. Some good options include carrots, celery, onions, bell peppers, and broccoli.
Add some flavor enhancers: To add some extra flavor to your dish, try adding some herbs, spices, or citrus zest. Some good options include garlic, ginger, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, and orange zest.

Conclusion:

Chicken and rice is a classic dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a healthy and affordable meal that can be easily customized to your own taste preferences. With a little planning and effort, you can make a delicious chicken and rice dish that your whole family will love.