I’ve always believed that you don’t need a pantry full of exotic ingredients to create something memorable. This recipe uses everyday items you probably already have, with a few optional substitutions to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Substitutions: Feel free to use brown rice for a nuttier flavor, or swap in chicken thighs if you prefer a richer taste. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth.