Are you looking for a delicious and easy dinner recipe that the whole family will love? Look no further! This Onion Soup Mix Chicken and Rice recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It's a simple, flavorful dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you need a quick and healthy meal. This recipe utilizes pantry staples to create a comforting and satisfying experience, making it a true champion among easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Chicken: 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.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the rice to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast lightly. This step helps to enhance the rice's flavor and texture.
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Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in the onion soup mix, chicken broth, water, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
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Return Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the pot and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot. This delicious and satisfying dish is perfect for a weeknight meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking.
- Don't overcook the rice; follow the package directions for your specific type of rice.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or peas, to the pot along with the rice.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with the thyme for a bright and zesty flavor.
- 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):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40 grams
This Onion Soup Mix Chicken and Rice recipe is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It's a great example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this easy recipe and let us know your thoughts in the comments below! We love hearing from our readers and seeing your culinary creations.