Craving a comforting, classic meal that's both delicious and easy to make? Look no further than this simple chicken rice and gravy recipe! This homemade dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy Sunday supper. It's packed with flavor, surprisingly healthy, and requires minimal cleanup – a win-win for busy cooks! Forget takeout; let's dive into this satisfying and easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Gravy:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (reserved from cooking the rice)
- 2 tbsp milk or cream (optional, for richer gravy)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cooking the Chicken and Rice
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet 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 skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Add the rice, 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of water, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Simmering
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Adding Chicken
Stir in the cooked chicken. Gently fluff the rice with a fork.
Step 6: Making the Gravy
While the rice is simmering, you can prepare the gravy. In a separate saucepan, whisk together the flour and 2 cups of reserved chicken broth (from cooking the rice) until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens. Reduce heat to low and simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in milk or cream (optional) for a richer gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serving
Serve the chicken and rice immediately, topped with the delicious homemade gravy.
Tips for the Best Chicken Rice and Gravy:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Cook until it's just cooked through.
- Use good quality broth: The flavor of the broth significantly impacts the overall taste of the dish.
- Adjust seasonings to your preference: Feel free to add more herbs or spices to suit your taste.
- Make it ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The gravy might thicken slightly upon reheating; add a splash of water or milk if needed.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include chopped carrots, peas, or green beans for added nutrients and flavor.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with rosemary, parsley, or oregano.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Creamy version: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This easy chicken rice and gravy recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy home cooking. It’s a great quick dinner idea that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!