Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This Knorr Chicken Rice recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, providing a wholesome and satisfying meal without hours of cooking. It's the perfect blend of savory chicken, fluffy rice, and the unmistakable deliciousness of Knorr Chicken flavor. This recipe is perfect for beginners, offering a simple introduction to homemade cooking, while experienced cooks will appreciate its speed and adaptability. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 packet Knorr Chicken flavor bouillon cube or equivalent
- 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) – optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Aromatics: 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.
Step 2: Flavor the Base: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients: Stir in the rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the grains slightly. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the rice.
Step 4: Add Liquid and Seasoning: Pour in the chicken broth and crumble in the Knorr Chicken bouillon cube. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Simmer and Cook: Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables (if using). Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 6: Fluff and Serve: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and finish cooking. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Knorr Chicken Rice:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Aim for a juicy, tender result.
- Toasting the rice is key: Toasting the rice before adding the liquid helps to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Use low-sodium broth: This gives you more control over the salt content of your dish.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, or other seasonings to suit your preferences.
Variations:
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef for a variation.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fat: 5-10g
This simple Knorr Chicken Rice recipe is a delicious and healthy meal perfect for any occasion. It’s a great example of how easy and satisfying homemade cooking can be. Enjoy!