chicken peas recipe
The Best chicken peas recipe
Chicken peas is one of those recipes that just feels like a hug for my whole family. There’s something about the way the tender chicken falls apart in the coconut milk and spices, mixed with those bright, slightly sweet peas, that makes it feel like a warm, comforting meal every time. I started making this years ago when my kids were little, and honestly, it became a staple—not just because it’s delicious, but because it’s so easy to customize. You can adjust the spices to taste, swap in whatever protein you have on hand, or even skip the chicken if you’re feeding a crowd or just want a vegetarian option. My kids love it because it’s flavorful but not too heavy, and it’s always a hit at dinner. Plus, it’s something we can make ahead and reheat, so it’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
This recipe is also one of those things that feels special without being overly fancy. It’s perfect for a casual family dinner, a potluck, or even a quick weeknight meal when you want something hearty but not too much work. The health benefits are pretty nice too—it’s packed with protein from the chicken, fiber from the peas, and healthy fats from the coconut milk. I always tell my family that it’s like a little powerhouse in every bite, and honestly, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies if anyone’s not a big fan of them raw. My kids have grown up eating it regularly, and honestly, they don’t even realize how good it is for them. Plus, the spices give it that little kick that makes it feel like a little celebration, even on a regular day. It’s that kind of recipe that makes me feel good about feeding my family, and I’m always happy when they take a second bite and say, “This is so good, Mom.”
Creamy Chicken and Peas with Rice
A comforting one-pan dish featuring tender chicken, sweet peas, and a creamy tomato-based sauce served over fluffy rice. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter option)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup white rice (or basmati)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt
👨🍳Directions
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1 Cook rice: Rinse rice under cold water. In a pot, bring chicken broth and salt to a boil. Add rice and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
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2 Prepare chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temp). Remove and set aside.
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3 Cook peas and sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in tomato sauce and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until heated through.
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4 Combine: Slice chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Add chicken to the skillet with peas and sauce. Stir gently to coat. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
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5 Serve: Divide cooked rice into bowls. Top each with chicken and peas, and drizzle any remaining sauce over the top.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot with lid
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Creamy Chicken and Peas with Rice Works
This chicken peas recipe is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple yet packed with bold flavors that make it feel special without needing fancy ingredients. It’s perfect for family gatherings because it’s hearty enough to hold its own at the table while still being light enough to balance out heavier dishes. Plus, it’s quick to prep and cook, so you can focus on hosting instead of stressing over last-minute details.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken and Peas with Rice
What is the best way to prepare chicken peas for a healthy meal?
The best way to prepare chicken peas is by sautéing them in a bit of olive oil or coconut oil with onions, garlic, ginger, and spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Cook the chicken pieces until they are fully done, then add the peas, followed by a splash of water or broth. Simmer until the peas are tender and the flavors meld together. For extra flavor, you can add lemon juice, yogurt, or a dash of red pepper flakes.
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How long does it take to cook chicken peas and what are the steps involved?
Cooking chicken peas typically takes around 20-30 minutes depending on the cut of chicken and the cooking method. Here’s a basic step-by-step: 1. Marinate the chicken (optional but recommended): Mix chicken pieces with yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes. 2. Cook the chicken: Sauté in oil until golden and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes for chicken thighs or 8-10 minutes for breasts). 3. Prepare the peas: Blanch peas in boiling water for 2-3 minutes (or steam for 3-4 minutes) until tender-crisp. 4. Combine: Add cooked chicken and peas to a pan with onions, garlic, and spices. Stir well, add water or broth, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes until flavors blend.
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Can I use frozen peas in this recipe, and if so, how do they differ from fresh peas?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen peas—they work perfectly well! The main difference is that frozen peas are usually pre-cooked to a certain point, so they’ll take slightly less time to re-heat or re-cook than fresh peas. They also retain their color and texture better. For best results: – Thaw frozen peas under cold water (if needed) or cook them straight from frozen in the broth. – Add them last (about 1-2 minutes before serving) to avoid overcooking. – Frozen peas may have a slightly softer texture, so adjust cooking time by 1-2 minutes if needed.
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What spices and ingredients are essential for authentic chicken peas flavor?
For an authentic and flavorful chicken peas dish, these ingredients and spices are key: – Base spices: Turmeric (for color and mild earthiness), cumin, coriander, and garam masala (or a mix of cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves). – Fresh aromatics: Onions, garlic, ginger, and green chilies (adjust to taste). – Acidity: A squeeze of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten flavors. – Fats: Olive oil, coconut oil, or ghee for richness. – Liquids: Water, coconut milk, or yogurt to balance the dish. – Protein: Chicken thighs or breast (bone-in for more flavor). – Vegetables: Peas, carrots, or cauliflower (optional). – Herbs: Fresh cilantro or mint for garnish.
Avoid skipping turmeric and coriander—they’re the soul of the dish!
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Can I make this chicken peas recipe in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Cooking chicken peas in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot is a great time-saving method. Here’s how to adapt it: ### Pressure Cooker Method: 1. Sauté: Cook chicken in oil until browned (~5-7 mins). 2. Add liquids: Pour in water, coconut milk (or broth), and spices. Stir well. 3. Pressure cook: Close lid, cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes (whistle should sound). 4. Release pressure: Quick-release, then add peas and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender. 5. Finish: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.
### Instant Pot Method: 1. Sauté: Cook chicken and onions in oil until crispy (~5 mins). 2. Add liquids: Pour in water, coconut milk, and spices. Stir. 3. Pressure cook: Secure lid, cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. 4. Quick-release pressure, then add peas and cook for 2-3 minutes. 5. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve.
Both methods reduce cooking time significantly while keeping flavors rich.
