Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice

Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a cozy night in. With its rich creaminess and vibrant vegetables, it stands out as a flavorful and hearty meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of chicken, peas, and carrots creates a delightful medley of flavors that are sure to please your palate.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or pair it with naan bread for a fuller meal experience.
• Customizable Recipe: Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach for additional nutrition or adjust spices to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food Appeal: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make this dish a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice, having the right tools will make your cooking experience much smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Pot for rice

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for sautéing the chicken and vegetables evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Great for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient amounts for the best results.

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Ingredients

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 34
Calories per serving: About 490 kcal

For the Chicken

• 400g chicken breast, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper

Vegetables & Sauce

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 finely chopped onion
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups diced carrots
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• Salt & pepper

For the Rice

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 3 cups water
• Pinch of salt

Topping

• Chopped parsley

How to Make Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice

Step 1: Cook the Rice

• Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
• In a pot, combine the rinsed rice, water, and a pinch of salt.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• Season the cubed chicken breast with salt and pepper.
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned on all sides. Set aside in a bowl.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

• In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
• Stir in diced carrots and cook briefly until tender.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

• Add curry powder and paprika, stirring well to coat the vegetables.
• Pour in chicken stock and bring to a simmer.
• Stir in heavy cream and tomato paste; allow to simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

• Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with peas.
• Cook until peas are heated through and vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Serve

• Spoon the creamy chicken mixture over a bed of fluffy rice.
• Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice

Serving Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments to enhance its flavors and presentation.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light, mixed greens salad can balance the richness of the creamy sauce. Add a tangy vinaigrette for extra zest.

Accompany with Warm Naan Bread

• Soft naan bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy chicken and rice. It adds a delightful texture and complements the dish beautifully.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or cilantro not only adds color but also imparts a fresh taste that brightens the meal.

Serve with Sautéed Spinach

• Lightly sautéed spinach provides a nutritious boost and pairs well with the flavors of chicken and cream.

Offer a Side of Steamed Broccoli

• Steamed broccoli adds crunch and nutrition, making it a great side that complements this creamy dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice

To achieve the best results when making Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture. Whenever possible, opt for fresh peas and carrots for added sweetness.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving. Add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed to ensure full flavor.
• Cook rice properly: Ensure basmati rice is fluffy by rinsing before cooking. This removes excess starch that can make it sticky.
• Experiment with cream substitutes: For a lighter option, try using low-fat cream or coconut milk instead of heavy cream without sacrificing flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice

Complement your Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice with these delicious side dishes that create a well-rounded meal experience.

1. Garlic Bread
   A crispy garlic bread can add crunch and flavor contrast to the creamy dish. Simply spread butter and minced garlic on slices of bread before baking until golden brown.
2. Roasted Cauliflower
   Roasted cauliflower provides a nutty flavor that pairs nicely. Toss cauliflower florets in olive oil, season, and roast until tender and golden.
3. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad offers protein and fiber. Combine cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light lemon dressing for brightness.
4. Cucumber Raita
   This yogurt-based side helps cool down spices while adding refreshing flavors. Mix yogurt with diced cucumbers, mint, and spices for an easy accompaniment.
5. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds texture to your meal while balancing richness.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness to contrast the savory chicken dish. Bake them until tender for a wholesome side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping seasoning: Many forget to season the chicken properly. Always season your meat with salt and pepper before cooking for enhanced flavor.
• Overcooking the veggies: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Add peas last and cook just until tender to maintain their bright color and texture.
• Not measuring ingredients: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect the dish’s balance. Always measure your ingredients accurately for best results.
• Using the wrong rice: Not all rice cooks the same way. Basmati rice is ideal for this recipe; ensure you rinse it before cooking to achieve fluffy grains.
• Neglecting the sauce thickness: If the sauce is too thin, it may not cling well to the chicken or rice. Allow it to simmer and thicken before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best if used within 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot—about 2-3 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice that might help you as you prepare this dish.

How can I make Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy texture without dairy.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen peas and carrots work great in this recipe and save time on prep.

What type of chicken works best in this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal as it cooks quickly and remains tender.

How do I customize my Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken with Peas & Carrots over Rice is a comforting meal that brings together rich flavors and textures. With its versatility, you can easily customize this dish by adding different vegetables or spices according to your preference. Try it out today!