Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and easy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This Chicken and Rice Uncle Ben's recipe is your answer. It's a simple, flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights, and it's so versatile you can easily customize it to your liking. This recipe uses the convenience of pre-cooked rice to get a healthy and delicious meal on the table fast, making it a fantastic option for quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 ounce) package Uncle Ben's Ready Rice (your favorite flavor works!)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine ingredients: Stir in the Uncle Ben's Ready Rice, diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Add chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This delicious dish is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken and Rice:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this recipe, such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Add them along with the onions.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- For a creamier version, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with the herbs.
- Mexican Chicken and Rice: Use Mexican-style Uncle Ben's Rice and add a can of drained black beans and corn. Top with shredded cheese and salsa.
- Mediterranean Chicken and Rice: Add chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
This easy chicken and rice recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both quick and healthy. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights and a great way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!