Ingredients
Rice: 1 cup uncooked rice of your choice (white, brown, jasmine, basmati)
Chicken: 1-1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Bacon: 4-6 slices thick-cut bacon
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Optional: 1 cup other vegetables like broccoli florets, bell peppers, mushrooms
Seasonings
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Broth: 1 ½ – 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (amount depends on the type of rice)
Oil: 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro)
- Sliced avocado
- Sour cream
- Hot sauce
Utensils and Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Medium saucepan
Instructions
1. Cook the rice: Follow the package directions for your chosen type of rice.
2. Prep the ingredients
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Dice the bacon.
- Chop the onion and any other vegetables you’re using.
3. Cook the bacon
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy.
- Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving some of the bacon grease in the pan.
4. Cook the chicken
- Add the olive oil to the pan (if needed) and increase the heat to medium-high.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
5. Sauté the vegetables
- Add the onion and any other vegetables to the pan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
6. Combine and simmer
- Return the chicken and bacon to the pan.
- Add the uncooked rice and chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer according to your rice package directions (usually 15-20 minutes for white rice and longer for brown rice).
7. Finish and serve
- When the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, fluff with a fork.
- Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Serve in bowls and top with your desired toppings like cheese, fresh herbs, avocado, sour cream, or hot sauce.
Tips and Variations
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Change the flavor profile: Use a different seasoning blend instead of Italian seasoning, like Mexican, Cajun, or Asian-inspired spices.
Boost the veggies: Add even more vegetables for a healthier and more filling meal.
Use leftover rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked, shredded chicken.
For added creaminess: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt at the end.
