Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further! This Chicken Rice and Gravy recipe is a timeless classic, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special Sunday gathering. This recipe delivers juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, flavorful gravy that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, showcasing simple ingredients transformed into a truly delicious dish. Let's get started on this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Gravy:
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (reserved from cooking rice)
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cooking the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Rice:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Making the Gravy:
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a light brown roux forms.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens slightly.
- Stir in milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining and Serving:
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the rice.
- Pour the gravy over the chicken and rice, stirring gently to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Chicken Rice and Gravy!
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Add some chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, or onions to the chicken while it's browning for added nutrients and flavor.
- For a creamier gravy, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- If you prefer brown rice, simply substitute it for white rice and adjust cooking time as needed (brown rice usually requires longer cooking time).
- Spice things up! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the gravy for a flavorful kick. This makes for a truly delicious dish!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This recipe offers a balanced and satisfying meal perfect for a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy this easy recipe for a quick and tasty dinner! Remember to adjust seasonings to your personal preference. Happy cooking!