Discover a heartwarming dish that’s both simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. This Savory Chicken and Rice Delight combines tender pieces of chicken with wholesome brown rice and a medley of vegetables, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe offers a delightful blend of ingredients that come together effortlessly.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced onion
- 4 carrots, chopped (about 2 cups)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 teaspoon)
- 1 1/2 cups of rinsed long-grain brown rice
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- Kosher salt (omit if poultry seasoning contains salt)
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, or about 1 pound uncooked chicken breast, cut into pieces
- Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy finish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the carrots start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Flavors: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the poultry seasoning, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. If using salted poultry seasoning, adjust the salt accordingly.
- Incorporate the Rice: Add the rinsed brown rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat the rice with the oil and seasoning. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the rice is gently golden and aromatic.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Cook the Chicken: If using uncooked chicken, add the pieces to the skillet during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Verify that the chicken is fully cooked by checking it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If using cooked chicken, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through.
- Optional Creamy Touch: For a richer flavor, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Conclusion:
This Savory Chicken and Rice Delight is a versatile and comforting dish that brings together the goodness of chicken, brown rice, and vegetables. With its savory flavors and optional creamy finish, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy it as a satisfying family meal or serve it at your next gathering for a dish that’s both delicious and memorable.