Craving a hearty, home-style meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice recipe captures the essence of that beloved restaurant classic, bringing the comforting flavors right to your kitchen table. It's a perfect example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste, ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest with this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Return the chicken to the pot. Add the rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Stir gently halfway through to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and serve immediately. This delicious dish is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor: Use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Ensure it's cooked through but still juicy.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preferences.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for an earthy twist. Consider adding a tablespoon of heavy cream for extra richness.
- Cheesy Chicken and Rice: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 30-35g Fat: Approximately 10-15g Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
This Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice recipe is a testament to the deliciousness of simple, homemade cooking. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes, perfect for satisfying both your hunger and your desire for comforting, flavorful food. Enjoy!