Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 7-10 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked through. Ensure that there’s no pink in the center. Remove from heat, let it cool, and shred the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces using two forks.
2. Cook the Rice: In a separate pot, bring 3 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: While the rice is cooking, peel and chop the carrots, sweet potato, and prepare the peas. If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. For frozen peas, simply thaw them in warm water.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. Boil the Vegetables: In a large saucepan, add the carrots, sweet potato, and peas. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and easily pierced with a fork.
2. Mash or Chop the Vegetables: After the vegetables are cooked, drain them well. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the vegetables, or chop them into small pieces depending on your dog’s preference.

Step 3: Combine the Chicken, Rice, and Vegetables

1. Mix Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, and mashed or chopped vegetables. Stir everything together until well-mixed.
2. Add Optional Ingredients: Sprinkle in the turmeric, dried rosemary or thyme (if using), and chia seeds. These ingredients add additional nutritional benefits and flavor, but they are completely optional.
3. Stir in Olive Oil: Drizzle in the tablespoon of olive oil and stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated. The olive oil adds healthy fats and helps keep the mixture moist.

Step 4: Let the Food Cool and Serve

1. Cool Down: Let the food cool to room temperature before serving. It’s important not to serve it hot as it may burn your dog’s mouth.
2. Serve: Scoop the homemade dog food into your dog’s bowl, adjusting the portion size according to your dog’s weight and daily calorie needs.