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One-pot chicken and rice with vegetables served in a large ceramic bowl on a family-style dinner table.
Inga

One-Pot Zucchini Chicken and Rice

This easy One-Pot Zucchini Chicken and Rice is a flavorful family dinner made with tender chicken, rice, zucchini, peppers, and tomato, all cooked together in one pot. It is simple, comforting, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 10,5 oz chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes (300 g)
  • 1 cup uncooked rice (200 g)
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 2 small sweet peppers, chopped
  • 2-3 tbsp cooking oil
  • 2 cups water (500 ml)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Paprika, to taste
  • Garlic powder, to taste
  • Turmeric, to taste
  • Saffron, optional, to taste
  • Vegetable seasoning, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for serving, optional

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot or deep skillet with lid
  • 1 Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Wash and prepare the vegetables. Finely chop the onion, dice the tomato and zucchini, chop the peppers, and cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Sauté the onion: Heat the oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
  3. Cook the chicken and vegetables: Add the peppers, tomato, and chicken. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the chicken is lightly cooked.
  4. Add the rice and zucchini: Add the uncooked rice, zucchini, and seasonings. Stir well until everything is evenly combined and coated with the spices.
  5. Add the water: Pour in the water and stir. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low.
  6. Simmer: Cook gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  7. Serve: Remove from the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm with yogurt or sour cream, a fresh salad, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Notes

  • Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of rice you use.
  • Keep the heat low once the water is added so the rice cooks evenly without sticking to the bottom.
  • If the rice absorbs the liquid before it is completely tender, add a small splash of hot water and continue cooking.
  • Cut the chicken into similar-sized pieces so it cooks evenly.
  • Do not overcook the zucchini; it should become tender while still holding some texture.
  • Adjust the seasonings according to your taste.
  • Thick yogurt or sour cream and a squeeze of fresh lemon are excellent additions when serving.