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Hearty Chicken and Rice Stew
Looking for a comforting and easy-to-make dinner? This Hearty Chicken and Rice Stew is the perfect solution! Packed with tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and fluffy rice, this one-pot meal is both nutritious and satisfying. The addition of mushrooms and Chinese cabbage adds depth and texture, while the tomato paste and spices bring a rich, savory flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, this stew is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Serve it hot and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Ingredients
- 12.3 oz (350g) chicken drumstick meat, cut into small pieces
- 1 Chinese cabbage, sliced into strips
- 5.3 oz (150g) organic long-grain rice
- 6 tbsp natural tomato paste
- 1 leek, sliced
- 3.5 oz (100g) mushrooms, sliced
- 6.8 fl oz (200ml) water
- 1/2 tsp ground chili peppers (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried basil (or fresh basil, chopped)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Cut the chicken into small pieces. Slice the leek, mushrooms, and Chinese cabbage into thin strips.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned. Add the leek, mushrooms, and Chinese cabbage. Stir in the tomato paste, ground chili peppers, basil, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add Rice and Simmer
Add the rice to the pot and pour in the water. Stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Serve
Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
- Chicken Drumstick Meat: Substitute with chicken breast or thighs for a leaner option.
- Chinese Cabbage: Use regular cabbage or bok choy if unavailable.
- Tomato Paste: Replace with crushed tomatoes for a lighter sauce.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the stew.
Pro Tips
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving, adding more salt, pepper, or chili as needed.
Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting
- Overcooking the Rice: Keep an eye on the rice to avoid overcooking, which can make it mushy.
- Too Thick Stew: Add a little more water if the stew becomes too thick during cooking.
Variations & Dietary Adaptations
- Spicy Version: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based alternative.
- Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb version.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: 420
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
