This delicious chicken hoisin rice bowl recipe is packed with flavor and easy to make. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, and it’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken. The hoisin sauce gives the chicken a sweet and savory flavor, and the mushrooms and zucchini add a healthy dose of vegetables.
**Chicken Hoisin Rice Bowl with Mushrooms and Zucchini**
**Introduction**
Immerse yourself in the tantalizing flavors of Asian cuisine with this delectable Chicken Hoisin Rice Bowl. This nourishing dish combines tender chicken, savory hoisin sauce, flavorful mushrooms, and crisp zucchini atop a bed of fluffy rice, creating a harmonious symphony of textures and tastes.
**Ingredients**
For the chicken:
– 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
For the vegetables:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 cup sliced zucchini
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
For the rice:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water
**Instructions**
**Marinade the Chicken:**
1. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken breast and toss to coat evenly.
3. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
**Cook the Rice:**
1. Rinse the brown rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until all the water has been absorbed, about 18-20 minutes.
**Sauté the Vegetables:**
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms, zucchini, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
3. Stir in the hoisin sauce, water, and soy sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
**Cook the Chicken:**
1. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess.
3. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly browned.
**Assemble the Rice Bowls:**
1. Divide the cooked rice evenly among four bowls.
2. Top each bowl with the sautéed vegetables.
3. Slice the chicken and arrange it on top of the vegetables.
4. Drizzle with any remaining hoisin sauce.
**Tips**
* For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use extra tofu or tempeh.
* Add other vegetables to your liking, such as shredded carrots, chopped bell peppers, or baby spinach.
* Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
* Serve with a side of kimchi or pickles for a tangy and refreshing accompaniment.
**Nutritional Value**
This Chicken Hoisin Rice Bowl is packed with essential nutrients:
* **Protein:** The chicken provides a substantial amount of high-quality protein.
* **Carbohydrates:** The brown rice offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
* **Vegetables:** The mushrooms, zucchini, and onion contribute fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
* **Heart-healthy fats:** The olive oil is a source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
**Conclusion**
Treat yourself to the exquisite flavors of the Chicken Hoisin Rice Bowl. This satisfying dish balances savory, umami, and freshness, leaving you feeling both nourished and delighted. Whether as a quick and easy weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party dish, this recipe will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
