Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly quick to make? Look no further! This poppy seed chicken recipe with rice is a delicious and easy dinner solution perfect for busy weeknights. It's a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters, and it’s surprisingly healthy too! This recipe offers a delightful balance of savory and slightly sweet, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup poppy seeds
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents sticking. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
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In the same skillet, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form.
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Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Stir in the poppy seeds, lemon juice, sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to combine.
Combine and Serve:
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Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the chicken in the creamy poppy seed sauce.
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Add the rinsed rice to the skillet. Stir to combine the rice and chicken mixture within the sauce.
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Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and tender, and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade poppy seed chicken with rice!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Add some veggies: Stir in frozen peas, carrots, or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving.
- Use different grains: Substitute the rice with quinoa or couscous for a different texture and nutritional profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, providing a healthy and delicious meal that the whole family will enjoy. From simple ingredients to a quick cooking time, this poppy seed chicken with rice is a testament to how easily delicious food recipes can be achieved in your own kitchen. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking for best recipes that are both tasty and convenient. Try it tonight and let us know what you think!