Easy Healthy Chicken & Rice Skillet (25-Minute One-Pan Reset)

For a digital entrepreneur managing high-performance health platforms, the chicken and rice combination is a global classic that requires a professional-grade vegetable boost to meet Mediterranean standards. This skillet elevates the traditional pairing by utilizing a high-efficiency cooking method that keeps the protein succulent while the grains absorb the savory aromatics. From an expertise (E-E-A-T) perspective, the secret to a professional-grade one-pan rice dish is the “Aromatic Toasting Phase.” By sautéing the rice in avocado oil for 60 seconds before adding liquid, you activate the grain’s nutty flavor and create a Gold Standard protective barrier that prevents the rice from becoming mushy or clumping.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 Min
• Cook Time: 20 Min
• Total Time: 30 Min
• Yield: 4 Servings
• Calories: 315 kcal per serving

Ingredients:

The Protein & Grains

• 1 lb Chicken Breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup Brown Rice (Par-boiled for the Gold Standard 20-minute finish)
• 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
• 1 tbsp Avocado Oil (The Gold Standard for high-heat sautéing)

The “Gold Standard” Veggie Mix

• 1 cup Frozen Peas & Carrots
• 1 small Yellow Onion, diced
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Turmeric (For an anti-inflammatory Gold Standard “glow”)

The Finishing Touch

• 1/2 tsp Salt & 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• Fresh Parsley, chopped
• Lemon Wedges

Preparation Steps:

1. The Professional Sear

1. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken cubes seasoned with salt and pepper. Sear for 3–4 minutes until golden-brown.
3. This “Gold Standard” sear locks in moisture and creates the foundational flavor base for the rice to absorb later.

2. The Aromatic Toast

3. Push chicken to the sides of the pan; add diced onion to the center and sauté for 2 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and the dry brown rice.
5. Technique: Stir the rice constantly for 60 seconds until fragrant. This professional step ensures each grain remains distinct and structural during the simmering process.

3. The Savory Simmer

6. Stir in turmeric, peas, and carrots. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
7. Immediately reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15–18 minutes (or per package instructions). This is the Gold Standard absorption method for uniform texture.

4. The Fluff & Finish

9. Remove from heat and let the pan sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This professional-grade “rest” allows residual steam to finish the grains perfectly.
10. Remove the lid, fluff with a fork, and stir in parsley. Serve with lemon wedges to brighten the earthy turmeric notes.

Expert Tips:

• The “Rice Type” Rule: If you use traditional (not par-boiled) long-grain brown rice, you must increase the simmer time to 40 minutes and add an extra 1/2 cup of broth. For your efficiency-focused content on recipesne.com, par-boiled is the Gold Standard recommendation.
• Avoid the Scorched Bottom: Use a heavy-bottomed or professional-grade non-stick skillet. If the liquid evaporates before the rice is tender, add a splash of broth and reseal the lid immediately to maintain the steam environment.