Name: Rice Bowl with Garlic Sauce (Zankou Chicken Copycat) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 cup garlic paste; 6 chicken thighs; ½ tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 2 lbs carrots; 2 tbsp canola oil; 1½ cups brown rice; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Looking for a flavorful, hearty and healthy dish? Look no further! This rice bowl with garlic sauce, inspired by Zankou Chicken's famous dish, is packed with nutrition and taste. Loaded with tender chicken thighs, brown rice, and roasted carrots, it's then topped with a deliciously creamy garlic sauce that really sets it apart. This dish is sure to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds.

Photos of Rice Bowl with Garlic Sauce (Zankou Chicken Copycat) Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe are staples readily available in a well-stocked kitchen. However, you may want to double-check for garlic paste. While minced garlic is a common household item, garlic paste might not be. Garlic paste gives a smooth and intense flavor that truly enriches the sauce. If it's not available at your local supermarket, you can make it at home by blending peeled garlic cloves with a little oil until it forms a smooth paste.

Ingredients for Rice Bowl with Garlic Sauce

Garlic paste: This gives a smooth and intense flavor that truly enriches the sauce. If it's not available, you can make it at home by blending peeled garlic cloves with a little oil.

Chicken thighs: They are juicy and flavorful, perfect for this rice bowl.

Kosher salt: Used to season the chicken and the rice. You can adjust the quantity based on your taste.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the chicken and the rice.

Lemon zest: Provides a bright, citrusy note that balances the rich flavors of the dish.

Carrots: They add a sweet, earthy flavor and a nice crunch to the dish.

Canola oil: Used for roasting the chicken and carrots.

Brown rice: A whole grain option that is high in fiber and makes the dish more filling.

Chicken broth: Used to cook the rice, it gives the rice extra flavor and makes it more delicious.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the rice.

One reader, Gayel Ashcraft says:

This rice bowl with garlic sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so rich and the garlic sauce is just divine. It's a perfect copycat of Zankou Chicken's dish. I love how easy it is to make, and it's become a go-to meal in my household. Highly recommended!

Gayel Ashcraft

Key Techniques for Mastering This Zankou Chicken Copycat Recipe

How to make garlic paste: Peel and finely mince garlic cloves. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and use the flat side of a chef's knife to press and smear the garlic against the cutting board until it forms a smooth paste.

How to roast chicken thighs: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

How to cook brown rice pilaf: In a baking dish, combine the brown rice, chicken broth, butter, salt, and pepper. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

How to roast carrots: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Toss the carrots with canola oil, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.

How to make garlic sauce: Combine garlic paste with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the seasoning to taste.

How To Make Rice Bowl with Garlic Sauce (Zankou Chicken Copycat)

Enjoy this delicious rice bowl from Zankou Chicken that comes with steamed brown rice, roasted chicken and carrots topped with garlic paste.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupgarlic paste,(Zankou Chicken’s copycat)
6chicken thighs
½tspkosher salt
¼tspblack pepper
1tbsplemon zest
2lbscarrots,peeled and sliced into 1-inch diagonal coins
2tbspcanola oil
1½cups brown rice
3cupschicken broth
1tbspunsalted butter,optional

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
In a baking dish, add chicken broth, rice, butter, salt, and pepper.
Bake rice in the oven for 60 minutes.
About 30 minutes into the rice cooking time, start the chicken and carrots.
In a large bowl, mix the chicken, carrots, salt, pepper, 2 tablespoons canola oil, and lemon zest.
Spread onto a pan and roast in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes alongside the rice. Everything should be done and ready to come out of the oven at the same time.
Serve the pilaf with chicken and carrots. Top with garlic sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 796.44kcal
Fat: 41.84g
Saturated Fat: 11.01g
Trans Fat: 0.26g
Monounsaturated Fat: 18.03g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.02g
Carbohydrates: 63.12g
Fiber: 6.46g
Sugar: 9.33g
Protein: 41.37g
Cholesterol: 197.83mg
Sodium: 595.14mg
Calcium: 126.25mg
Potassium: 1225.55mg
Iron: 3.28mg
Vitamin A: 1324.34µg
Vitamin C: 17.52mg

Expert Tip for Perfecting the Garlic Sauce in This Rice Bowl Recipe

When roasting the chicken and carrots, it's important to ensure they are spread out evenly on the pan. Overcrowding can cause the ingredients to steam rather than roast, preventing that delicious caramelization from occurring. Also, tossing them in canola oil and lemon zest before roasting will not only help them cook more evenly but also infuse them with more flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Making rice bowl with garlic sauce (zankou chicken copycat) recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

One-pot wonders: Look for recipes that allow you to cook everything in one pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.

Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of the garlic sauce and store it in the fridge for future use in other dishes.

Use kitchen gadgets: Utilize kitchen tools like a food processor for chopping garlic to save time and effort.

Time-saving ingredients: Consider using pre-chopped vegetables or pre-cooked chicken to cut down on prep time.

Substitute Ingredients For Rice Bowl with Garlic Sauce (Zankou Chicken Copycat) Recipe

garlic paste - Substitute with minced garlic: Minced garlic can be used as a substitute for garlic paste. Use 1 teaspoon of minced garlic for every 1 tablespoon of garlic paste.
chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken thighs. It can be cooked in the same way and will work well with the garlic sauce.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt in the same quantity.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a slightly milder flavor.
lemon zest - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest can be used as a substitute for lemon zest, providing a similar citrusy flavor.
carrots - Substitute with bell peppers: Bell peppers can be used as a substitute for carrots to add a different texture and flavor to the rice bowl.
canola oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for canola oil in the same quantity.
brown rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a substitute for brown rice, providing a nutty flavor and additional protein.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to make the dish vegetarian-friendly.
unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter to make the dish dairy-free.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Garlic Sauce Rice Bowl

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add color and vibrancy to the plate.
Incorporate texture: Introduce a variety of textures to the dish. Consider adding a crispy element, such as crispy garlic chips, to contrast with the tender chicken and fluffy rice.
Highlight the garlic sauce: Drizzle the garlic sauce in an artistic manner, using a squeeze bottle or small spoon, to create a visually striking design on the plate.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate, ensuring that the dish is meticulously arranged to showcase the care and skill put into its preparation.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Select elegant and sophisticated serving dishes that complement the dish's presentation, enhancing the overall dining experience for the judges.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Delicious Rice Bowl

Baking dish: A dish used for baking and roasting food in the oven.
Pan: A flat-bottomed utensil used for cooking food over heat.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
Knife: A tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing food.
Measuring cup: A cup used for measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal sheet used for baking and roasting food in the oven.
Whisk: A utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Garlic Sauce Rice Bowls

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the rice bowl with garlic sauce (zankou chicken copycat) recipe:

Let the rice, chicken, and carrots cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent excess moisture from accumulating and affecting the texture.
For storing in the refrigerator:
- Place the cooled rice, chicken, and carrots in separate airtight containers.
- Store the garlic sauce in a separate container to prevent it from overpowering the other components.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For freezing:
- Divide the cooled rice, chicken, and carrots into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Freeze the garlic sauce separately in an ice cube tray, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer-safe bag for easy portioning.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal quality.
To reheat:
- For refrigerated components, microwave the rice, chicken, and carrots separately until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out.
- For frozen components, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also reheat them directly from frozen, but it may take longer, and you may need to add more liquid to prevent dryness.
- Reheat the garlic sauce in the microwave or in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Assemble the reheated components in a bowl and top with the warm garlic sauce before serving.

How to Reheat Leftover Garlic Sauce Rice Bowl

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover rice bowl in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. This will help to retain moisture and prevent the rice from drying out. Heat the dish in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is heated through.
If you have a microwave, you can also reheat the rice bowl using this method. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help to steam the rice and keep it moist. Microwave the dish on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is heated through. Be sure to stir the rice halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
For a quick and easy method, you can reheat the rice bowl in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of chicken broth or water to the skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the leftover rice bowl to the skillet and stir it occasionally until it is heated through. This method will help to re-crisp the chicken and carrots while also reheating the rice.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover rice bowl, try stir-frying it in a wok or large skillet. Heat a small amount of canola oil in the wok over high heat. Add the leftover rice bowl to the wok and stir-fry it for 2-3 minutes, or until it is heated through and slightly crispy. You can also add some additional vegetables or proteins to the wok to make a new meal out of your leftovers.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to reheat the rice bowl until it is steaming hot throughout. This will help to ensure that any bacteria that may have grown on the leftovers is killed off. Once the rice bowl is heated through, serve it immediately with some extra garlic sauce on top for added flavor.

Interesting Trivia About Zankou Chicken and Its Iconic Garlic Sauce

The dish is inspired by the famous Zankou Chicken's garlic sauce, which is known for its unique and flavorful taste.

Budget-Friendly: Making Garlic Sauce Rice Bowls at Home

The cost-effectiveness of this rice bowl with garlic sauce (zankou chicken copycat) recipe is quite high. The main ingredients, such as chicken thighs, carrots, and brown rice, are affordable and easily accessible. The use of simple, everyday ingredients makes this recipe budget-friendly for a household. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. The overall verdict for this recipe would be an 8/10, considering the balance of cost, flavor, and nutritional value.

Is This Garlic Sauce Rice Bowl Recipe Healthy?

The recipe for the rice bowl with garlic sauce (Zankou Chicken copycat) has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients like chicken thighs, which are a good source of protein, and carrots, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. Brown rice is also a healthier alternative to white rice, as it contains more fiber and nutrients.

However, the recipe also has some less healthy components. The garlic paste, while flavorful, may be high in sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues if consumed in excess. Additionally, the use of canola oil and butter adds extra fat and calories to the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of garlic paste used, or opt for a low-sodium version to decrease the overall sodium content
Replace the canola oil with a healthier alternative, such as olive oil or avocado oil, which are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
Use skinless chicken thighs to reduce the fat content, or opt for leaner cuts of chicken, such as chicken breast
Increase the proportion of carrots and other vegetables in the dish to boost the fiber and nutrient content
Experiment with adding other nutrient-dense ingredients, such as leafy greens, bell peppers, or onions, to further enhance the nutritional value of the meal

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and healthier version of this tasty rice bowl while still enjoying the delicious flavors of the Zankou Chicken-inspired garlic sauce.

Editor's Opinion: Why This Garlic Sauce Rice Bowl Recipe Is a Must-Try

This recipe has a great potential for a flavorful and aromatic dish. The combination of garlic paste, lemon zest, and roasted chicken and carrots promises a delicious and satisfying meal. However, the cooking method for the rice could be improved for better texture and flavor. Consider sautéing the rice before baking to enhance its nuttiness. Additionally, the garlic sauce could be elevated with a touch of acidity, such as a splash of vinegar or lemon juice, to balance the richness. Overall, with a few tweaks, this recipe has the makings of a delightful rice bowl with zankou chicken-inspired flavors.

Enhance Your Rice Bowl with Garlic Sauce (Zankou Chicken Copycat) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with melted butter.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in a balsamic glaze and sprinkled with toasted almonds.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, such as juicy watermelon, sweet strawberries, and tangy pineapple, drizzled with a honey-lime dressing.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Garlic Sauce Rice Bowls

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender beef, potatoes, and carrots, this stew is sure to warm you up on a cold evening.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: This zesty and flavorful roasted chicken is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of lemon and garlic adds a delicious twist to a classic dish.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: For a healthy and refreshing dessert, try this mango coconut chia pudding. It's a light and tropical treat that's perfect for a summer day.

Spicy Thai Peanut Noodles: If you're craving something with a kick, these spicy Thai peanut noodles are the perfect choice. Packed with vegetables and a flavorful peanut sauce, this dish is a winner.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Garlic Sauce Rice Bowl

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Indulge in these crispy zucchini fritters, made with fresh zucchini, herbs, and a hint of parmesan cheese. Served with a side of tangy dipping sauce, these fritters are a crowd-pleasing appetizer option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth with every spoonful, leaving you craving for more.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Each spoonful offers a burst of fruity goodness, making it the perfect light and refreshing dessert option.

Why trust this Rice Bowl with Garlic Sauce (Zankou Chicken Copycat) Recipe:

This recipe offers a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The garlic paste infuses the dish with rich, aromatic notes, while the succulent chicken thighs promise a juicy and tender bite. The addition of lemon zest brings a refreshing citrusy twist, complementing the earthy sweetness of the roasted carrots. The use of brown rice and chicken broth creates a wholesome base, enhancing the overall nutritional value. With meticulous attention to detail and a harmonious combination of ingredients, this recipe guarantees a satisfying and memorable meal.

Have you tried this Rice Bowl with Garlic Sauce (Zankou Chicken Copycat) Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

What is garlic paste and where can I find it?

Garlic paste is a smooth, creamy paste made from crushed garlic cloves. You can find it in the condiment or spice section of most grocery stores, or you can easily make it at home by blending fresh garlic cloves with a little oil until smooth.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can absolutely use boneless chicken thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as boneless thighs will cook faster than bone-in thighs.

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can substitute white rice for brown rice in this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as white rice typically cooks faster than brown rice. You may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio accordingly.

How can I make the garlic sauce?

To make the garlic sauce, you can combine garlic paste with mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency with a little water if needed. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Can I add other vegetables to the rice bowl?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your rice bowl with your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas would all be delicious additions. Just adjust the roasting time as needed based on the vegetables you choose.