Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and easy meal that won't keep you in the kitchen all night? Then look no further! This rice and chicken sausage recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal effort, and is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for quick dinner ideas or healthy meals that the whole family will enjoy. It’s one of those best recipes that’s both satisfying and simple.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced (choose your favorite flavor!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Sausage and Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Toast the Rice: Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes, until lightly toasted. This step helps to enhance the rice's flavor and texture.
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Simmer the Dish: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (undrained). Stir in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce 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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Combine and Serve: Stir in the cooked chicken sausage. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Veggie boost: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Different grains: Substitute brown rice or quinoa for a different nutritional profile and texture.
- Cheese please: Sprinkle some shredded Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and fiber. The exact nutritional content will depend on the specific ingredients used. A reasonable estimate for one serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
This easy rice and chicken sausage recipe is a perfect example of delicious food recipes that are also healthy and quick to make. It’s a versatile dish that you can easily adapt to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a fantastic addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy!