Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that’s also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This creamy chicken thighs and rice recipe, featuring the classic combination of chicken, rice, and cream of mushroom soup, is a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that delivers big on flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. This recipe is a staple for many families, and for good reason – it’s incredibly versatile, adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to enjoy this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 10.75 oz can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir in uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer and Cook: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot. This healthy meal is perfect on its own, or you can pair it with a side salad for a complete and balanced dinner.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. You can also add a bay leaf while simmering for a richer taste, removing it before serving.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms along with the onions.
- Creamy variations: Experiment with different cream soups like cream of celery or cream of chicken for a unique twist.
- Cheese please: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Make it a one-pot meal: Use a slow cooker! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
This easy recipe for creamy chicken thighs and rice is a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade cooking with this quick and healthy dish! It's a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. From quick dinner ideas to delicious dishes, this recipe has it all!