The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—nothing fancy, just fresh and straightforward. I often choose organic chicken breasts when I can, and fresh herbs if available, to keep the flavors bright and wholesome. The rice is the canvas here, so using good-quality long-grain rice really makes a difference in the texture. Over the years, I’ve learned that keeping ingredients simple lets the natural flavors shine, which is exactly what I love about family meals.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional but adds color and nutrition)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

If you need substitutions, brown rice can work but will require longer cooking time, and you can swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer juicier meat.