Cooking on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction! I absolutely love making a delicious dinner under 20 dollars, and this recipe is one of my go-tos. It’s all about combining fresh ingredients, simple techniques, and a little bit of love to create a meal that feels indulgent without breaking the bank. Imagine the aroma of sautéed chicken mingling with vibrant bell peppers and garlic while the rice cooks perfectly in the background. Trust me, this dish is not just quick and easy; it’s also a delightful way to bring your family together around the dinner table. Let’s dive in and whip up something amazing!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups of rice, uncooked
- 1 pound of chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer for a pop of color!)
- 1 onion, chopped finely for a sweet flavor
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced to release that amazing aroma
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, adjusting for saltiness as needed
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil, for sautéing
- Salt and pepper to taste, always a must for seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped for a bright garnish
How to Prepare Instructions
- Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, so you can multitask while it cooks!
- Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure it’s hot enough to get a nice sear on the chicken.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. If you want extra flavor, don’t be afraid to let it get a little crispy on the edges!
- Next, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté these colorful veggies for about 3-4 minutes, or until they soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Wow, your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Now, stir in the soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Let everything cook together for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Once your rice is ready, fluff it with a fork and serve the chicken mixture over the top. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for that lovely finishing touch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly budget-friendly—dinner under 20 dollars!
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-packed with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables.
- Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
- A satisfying meal that brings everyone together at the table.
Tips for Success
To ensure your dish turns out perfectly, here are a few tips from my kitchen to yours! First, make sure the olive oil is hot before adding the chicken; this helps achieve that lovely golden-brown color. Don’t overcrowd the skillet—if your chicken pieces are too close together, they’ll steam instead of sear. When cooking the veggies, keep an eye on them, as you want them tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp. Lastly, taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with soy sauce, salt, or pepper to suit your palate. Trust me, a little tweak can elevate the flavor!
Variations
There are so many fun ways to make this dish your own! If you want a vegetarian option, simply swap out the chicken for tofu—just make sure to press it well to remove excess moisture before dicing. You can also get creative with your veggies; try adding broccoli, snap peas, or shredded carrots for extra crunch and nutrition! Another great idea is to experiment with different sauces—teriyaki or hoisin can add a delightful twist. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to try your own twist!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for this delicious dinner under 20 dollars, keeping you informed while you enjoy your meal! Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, with 10g of fat (2g saturated), 30g of protein, and 60g of carbohydrates. You’ll also find about 3g of sugar and 600mg of sodium. Remember, these figures are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. Enjoy this satisfying dish guilt-free!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers from this delicious dinner under 20 dollars can be stored easily! Make sure to let the chicken and rice cool down to room temperature before transferring them into an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If you prefer, you can also reheat them on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist and flavorful. Enjoy the convenience without losing any taste!
FAQ Section
Can I use brown rice instead of regular rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great option, but remember it takes longer to cook, so adjust your cooking time accordingly—about 40-45 minutes. Just be patient, and you’ll get a delicious, nutty flavor!
What can I substitute for chicken?
If you’re looking for alternatives, tofu is perfect for a vegetarian version, or you can use shrimp or beef for a different protein twist. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and veggies in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them on the stove or microwave when you’re ready to serve.
What are some good side dishes to serve with this?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but you could pair it with a simple salad or steamed broccoli for a refreshing crunch!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative like tamari. Enjoy a flavorful dinner under 20 dollars that fits your dietary needs!
Dinner Under 20 Dollars: 5 Steps to a Delightful Meal
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A satisfying dinner option that can be prepared for under 20 dollars. This recipe combines fresh ingredients with simple techniques to create a flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of rice
- 1 pound of chicken breast, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Serve the chicken mixture over rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with tofu.
- You can add vegetables like broccoli or carrots for added nutrition.
- Adjust the soy sauce to taste for a saltier dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: dinner under 20 dollars, budget meal, quick dinner
