Welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today, we are excited to share with you our recipe for Spicy Chicken Rice – a dish that’s full of flavor and easy to make. If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that will spice up your weeknights, then this recipe is perfect for you. With just a few simple ingredients and our trusty rice cooker, you’ll have a delicious and filling meal in no time. Let’s get started! We’ve made this spicy chicken rice recipe easy to follow 👨🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.2. Add the chicken and onion and sauté until the chicken is cooked through and the onion is translucent, about 10 minutes.3. Add the chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper and stir to combine.4. Add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine.5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the skillet.6. Simmer the rice for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.7. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes.8. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
How long does spicy chicken rice last in the fridge?
Spicy chicken rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three to four days after cooking. It is important to store it promptly after cooking, preferably within two hours, and allow it to cool down before refrigeration. When reheating the rice, make sure that it is heated to an internal temperature of at least 165ºF (74ºC) to kill any bacteria that may have grown in the stored food. If the rice has been left at room temperature for more than two hours, it is advised to discard it to prevent the risk of foodborne illness.
Low calorie spicy chicken rice recipe substitutions
To make this recipe lower calorie, some substitutions can be made. Firstly, replace the white rice with brown rice, which is high in fiber and nutrients and has fewer calories. Use low-sodium chicken broth or water instead of regular chicken broth to cut down on sodium. Instead of using boneless, skinless chicken breast, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which have a little more fat but are still leaner than other cuts of chicken and will add more flavor. You can cut down on oil by using cooking spray instead of olive oil or by reducing the amount of oil used. Instead of using canned diced tomatoes, use fresh diced tomatoes which are low in calories and also provide fresh flavor. Lastly, to add some flavor and acidity, you can add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice instead of cilantro. Making these substitutions will make the recipe lower in calories, healthier, and still delicious!
What to serve with a spicy chicken rice?
Spicy chicken rice can be complemented well with a side salad of mixed greens, shredded carrots, cucumbers, and tomatoes drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. You can also serve it with lightly grilled or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers for a healthy and colorful meal. For a heartier option, consider adding some black beans or corn to the rice for extra protein and flavor. A glass of ice-cold lemonade or iced tea would be a refreshing beverage choice to balance out the spicy flavors of the dish.
Whats the best sauce for a spicy chicken rice?
The best sauce for spicy chicken rice would be a creamy garlic sauce. This sauce complements the spiciness of the chicken and adds a rich, smooth flavor to the dish. To make a creamy garlic sauce, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, fresh lemon juice, and salt until well mixed. This sauce can be served on the side or drizzled over the spicy chicken rice for a delectable dinner. Its tangy and garlic flavor profile pairs perfectly with the savory aroma of this dish.
Spicy chicken rice health benefits
Spicy chicken rice can have a few health benefits depending on how it is prepared. For example, the chicken provides lean protein while the rice can be a source of carbohydrates. Spices like chili pepper can also have some health benefits including reducing inflammation and boosting metabolism. However, if the recipe uses a lot of oil or processed ingredients, it can quickly become a calorie-dense and unhealthy option. As an alternative, a healthier recipe could be grilled chicken breast with a side of brown rice and steamed vegetables seasoned with herbs and spices. This option provides lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Plus, it is lower in saturated fat and calories compared to an oily and heavily spiced chicken rice dish.