Comfort food has an extraordinary knack for lifting our spirits, filling our bellies, and providing a nostalgic taste of home. One dish that embodies these qualities is the Grilled Chicken Plate with Steamed Rice & Sautéed Veggies. This meal is not only simple to prepare but is also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch option, this grilled chicken plate won’t disappoint!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
The Grilled Chicken Plate with Steamed Rice & Sautéed Veggies combines the classic appeal of grilled chicken with the wholesome goodness of fresh vegetables. The chicken breast is marinated and grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy and flavorful meat. The fluffy steamed rice complements the dish beautifully, while the sautéed veggies add a splash of color and essential nutrients. This recipe is also highly customizable—feel free to adjust the veggie selection based on your preferences!
Pro Tips for Making the Grilled Chicken Plate
- Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, marinate your chicken breasts overnight. A simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs works wonders!
- High Heat: Use high heat for grilling to get those nice grill marks and lock in the moisture.
- Rest the Chicken: After grilling, let your chicken rest for a few minutes to retain its juices.
- Veggie Variety: Feel free to mix and match the vegetables based on what you have available. Bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots work well!
- Rice Cooking: Use chicken broth instead of water to steam your rice for an extra boost of flavor.
Ingredients
The ingredients for this comforting dish are simple and wholesome:
- 2 boneless chicken breasts (approx. 1 pound)
- 1 cup of steamed rice
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like oregano or thyme)
Directions
Creating your Grilled Chicken Plate is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these easy steps:
- Step 1: Start by marinating your chicken breasts. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible.
- Step 2: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the rice according to package instructions, using chicken broth for more flavor.
- Step 3: Preheat your grill or grill pan on high heat. Once heated, place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Step 4: While the chicken is grilling, heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add your mixed vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Step 5: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing.
- Step 6: To serve, plate your rice, add the sliced grilled chicken on top, and arrange the sautéed vegetables alongside.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe? Yes, frozen vegetables work perfectly. Just ensure they’re heated through before serving.
- Is there a vegetarian version of this dish? Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh.
- What can I serve with this meal? This dish is versatile and pairs well with salad or a light soup.
- Can I prepare the chicken and veggies ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the chicken and pre-chop the vegetables to save time when cooking.
- What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or pan.
Conclusion
The Grilled Chicken Plate with Steamed Rice & Sautéed Veggies is a quintessential comfort food that offers both flavor and nutrition. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also adapts well to your personal taste or dietary preferences. By following these simple steps and tips, you can quickly whip up this satisfying meal that your whole family will love. Enjoy indulging in the goodness of grilled chicken and fresh veggies, knowing you’re treating yourself to a wholesome dish!
