Are you craving a delicious and satisfying meal but short on time? Look no further! This Chicken and Uncle Ben's Rice recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less effort, yet delivers a flavorful and complete dinner the whole family will love. This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a truly satisfying and healthy meal. Get ready to enjoy a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and convenient!
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 (any flavor you prefer)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables
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.
Step 2: Flavor the Base
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Add the chicken broth, frozen mixed vegetables, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Add Rice and Chicken
Stir in the Uncle Ben's Ready Rice and the cooked chicken. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and the liquid is absorbed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, but also impressive enough for a casual family meal.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Dish:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Customize your rice: Use your favorite Uncle Ben's Ready Rice flavor for a unique twist.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the skillet along with the chicken broth.
- Teriyaki Chicken and Rice: Use teriyaki sauce instead of chicken broth and add a tablespoon of soy sauce.
- Creamy Chicken and Rice: Stir in a 1/4 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This simple chicken and rice recipe is a great example of a quick dinner idea that doesn't sacrifice taste or nutrition. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – easy, delicious, and satisfying. Enjoy!