Craving a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further than this classic Southern Chicken and Rice recipe! This dish is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – simple ingredients transformed into a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a casual weeknight dinner. Ready to dive into this easy recipe? Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. This is a crucial step to ensuring the chicken browns nicely and develops great flavor.
Brown the chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pot; you may need to do this in batches for best results.
Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the delicious base flavor of our Southern Chicken and Rice.
Combine ingredients: Stir in the rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer until cooked: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If you notice the liquid is absorbed too quickly, add a splash more broth.
Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This quick dinner idea is perfect for a busy weeknight.
Cooking Tips for the Best Southern Chicken and Rice:
- Use high-quality chicken broth: The flavor of your broth significantly impacts the overall taste of the dish. Consider using homemade broth for an even richer flavor.
- Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice will be mushy. Follow the cooking time closely and check for doneness before the 20-minute mark.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and thyme to your preference.
- Add vegetables: For a healthier and more flavorful dish, add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onions.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Rice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Chicken and Rice: Stir in a 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking for a creamy texture.
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with fresh herbs like rosemary and oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fat: 10-12g
This Southern Chicken and Rice recipe is a delightful example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's a healthy meal option, perfect for a quick dinner, and a delicious addition to your repertoire of best recipes. Enjoy!