Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This creamy chicken and rice dish, featuring the rich goodness of cream of mushroom soup, is a perfect weeknight dinner solution. It's a delicious blend of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce that the whole family will adore. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a healthy twist on a classic comfort food. Get ready to enjoy this quick dinner idea that’s both satisfying and simple!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 10.75 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables: Heat 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. 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.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the oil and onion mixture. Pour in the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and milk. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
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Simmer and Cook: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Garnish and Serve: Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley (if using). Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and easy homemade meal!
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken and Rice:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Ensure it's cooked through but still juicy.
- Use good quality chicken broth: The flavor of the broth will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish.
- Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more chicken broth or milk. For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Chicken and Rice: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Creamy Tomato Chicken and Rice: Substitute cream of tomato soup for the cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
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 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This easy recipe for creamy chicken and rice is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy meals you can prepare quickly at home. It’s a perfect choice for a busy weeknight or a comforting weekend dinner. Enjoy!