Did you know over 1 billion servings of chicken and rice are eaten in the U.S. each year? This combo of tender chicken and fluffy rice is a favorite in many homes. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy to make and enjoy. People call it “chicken rice plate,” “rice and chicken,” or just a “poultry rice dish.” It brings home flavors that families love.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken over rice is a beloved, comforting classic that’s enjoyed by millions of Americans each year.
- This one-pot dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- The recipe features simple, affordable ingredients that come together to create maximum flavor.
- The dish can be customized with a variety of seasonings and mix-ins to suit personal preferences.
- Chicken over rice is a versatile meal that can be served with a range of delicious side dishes.
Comforting Flavors of Home
Nothing beats the comfort of a classic chicken and rice dish. It’s a family favorite that combines tender chicken with fluffy rice. This simple mix of ingredients creates a meal that warms both body and soul.
A Family-Friendly Classic
Chicken and rice brings back memories of cozy family dinners. Its comforting flavors and hearty texture make it a hit with everyone. It’s perfect for feeding families or warming up on a chilly night.
Simple Ingredients, Maximum Flavor
This recipe is all about simplicity. With basic pantry items, you can make a dish full of flavor. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and aromatic vegetables come together beautifully. Brining the chicken adds extra moisture and flavor, making it juicy and delicious.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces |
| Chicken Stock | 8 cups |
| Carrots | 1 heaping cup, shredded or chopped |
| Seasoned Salt, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika | To taste |
| Dried Parsley Flakes | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter or Vegan Butter | 4-6 tablespoons |
| Jasmine or Basmati Rice | Long grain white rice |
With these simple ingredients, you can make a comforting, homestyle chicken and rice dish. The secret to success is using quality ingredients and careful preparation. This way, every bite is a joy.
“This creamy chicken and rice recipe is a reader favorite that has been enjoyed by many people over the years.”
Effortless One-Pot Cooking
This chicken and rice dish is super easy to make. It all cooks in one pot, making cleanup a snap. You’ll need just a few things like butter, carrots, rice, chicken stock, and spices. It’s perfect for a quick dinner on a busy night.
Gathering the Essentials
To make this dish, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Long-grain white rice
- Chicken stock
- Onion
- Butter or oil
- Paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
Pantry Staples for Convenience
This one-pot meal uses simple one-pan recipe ingredients. Most people have these in their pantry. It’s easy to clean up and makes a quick, satisfying dinner.
| Ingredient | Cost |
|---|---|
| 2 tsp paprika | $0.20 |
| 1 tsp dried oregano | $0.10 |
| 1 tsp dried thyme | $0.10 |
| 1/2 tsp garlic powder | $0.05 |
| 1/2 tsp onion powder | $0.05 |
| 1/4 tsp salt | $0.02 |
| 1/4 tsp pepper | $0.02 |
| 1.25 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs (4-5 thighs) | $4.23 |
| 2 Tbsp cooking oil, divided | $0.08 |
| 1 yellow onion, diced | $0.32 |
| 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked) | $0.32 |
| 1.75 cups vegetable broth | $0.23 |
| 1 Tbsp chopped parsley (optional garnish) | $0.10 |
This one-pot wonder is easy to make and very comforting. You can make more or less depending on your family size. It’s great for meal prep or when you have guests over.
chicken over rice: A Satisfying Meal
The heart of this classic dish is the mix of chicken and rice. It’s a meal that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying. You can use tender chicken thighs or lean chicken breasts. The marinade and spices make the chicken taste amazing.
Variations to Try
The base recipe for chicken and rice is delicious. But you can make it your own. Try using rotisserie chicken for ease. Or add fresh garlic and onion for a stronger aroma.
You can also add extra veggies like celery, mushrooms, or peas. This makes your chicken rice bowl healthier and prettier.
Customizing with Favorite Flavors
This rice and chicken dish is very versatile. You can mix different spices like garam masala, cumin, or paprika. This gives the chicken your favorite taste.
Don’t forget the creamy white sauce. You can change it by adjusting the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. Or add garlic powder or dill for extra flavor.
If you like a little heat, try homemade red hot sauce. It’s made with tomatoes and dried chilies. This can make your chicken and rice recipes even tastier.
No matter how you make your chicken rice meal, it will be comforting. It will also make your taste buds happy.
Perfectly Paired Sides
Chicken over rice is a classic comfort dish. But, adding the right sides can make it even better. You can choose from fresh salads to roasted veggies. These options help balance the meal and make it more satisfying.
A simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette is a great choice. It adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken and rice. Roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots also add texture and nutrition.
For a heartier side, try steamed broccoli or green beans with lemon and garlic. These sides not only taste good but also add fiber and vitamins. They make the chicken and rice meal more complete.
| Side Dish | Prep Time | Nutrition (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Green Salad with Vinaigrette | 10 minutes | Calories: 133, Carbohydrates: 10g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 9g |
| Roasted Broccoli | 25 minutes | Calories: 55, Carbohydrates: 11g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 1g |
| Steamed Green Beans | 15 minutes | Calories: 44, Carbohydrates: 10g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 0g |
Adding these side dishes turns chicken over rice into a full and tasty meal. Your family and guests will love the mix of flavors and textures.
Expert Tips for Success
To make perfect chicken and rice, start with high-quality, long-grain rice. Jasmine or basmati rice is best. It keeps the dish fluffy, not mushy.
Don’t lift the lid while the rice simmers. This lets it steam and cook right. Seasoning at the end balances the flavors perfectly.
- Use high-quality, long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati to avoid mushy texture.
- Do not disturb the lid during simmering to allow the rice to steam and cook properly.
- Season the dish at the end to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
By following these tips, you’ll make a comforting chicken and rice recipe your family will love. The tips for cooking rice are crucial for a fluffy texture that goes well with tender chicken.
“Following these simple tips will help you master the art of chicken and rice every single time.”
| Cooking Time | Preparation Time | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 30 minutes | 10 minutes | 20 minutes |
With this knowledge, you’re ready to make a chicken and rice dish that will be a family favorite. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the ease of this one-pot meal!
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
Chicken over rice is not just tasty; it’s also great for leftovers and meal prep. It makes a big batch, so you can eat it for days. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you need a comforting meal.
Extending the Enjoyment
Leftover chicken and rice can stay fresh in the fridge for 5 days or frozen for 3 months. Just heat it up in the microwave or oven to bring back the flavors and textures.
- Refrigerator Storage: Cool the chicken and rice and put it in an airtight container. Use Ello Storage Glass Containers or Ello 30-Ounce Meal Prep Containers. It stays good for up to 5 days, perfect for quick meals.
- Freezer Storage: Divide the chicken and rice into portions and freeze them in bags or containers. This way, you can thaw and reheat only what you need. Frozen chicken and rice lasts up to 3 months.
To reheat, use the microwave for quickness or the oven for better texture and flavor. The oven makes it taste like it’s just cooked.
| Storage Method | Refrigerator | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Shelf Life | Up to 5 days | Up to 3 months |
| Recommended Containers | Ello Storage Glass Containers, Ello 30-Ounce Meal Prep Containers | Freezer-safe bags or containers |
| Reheating Methods | Microwave, Oven | Microwave, Oven |
Using these make-ahead and storage tips, you can enjoy chicken and rice for weeks. It’s great for meal prep or stocking your freezer. This recipe is both versatile and convenient, keeping you happy and full.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this classic how to make chicken and rice dish is easy. Start by sautéing carrots in butter. Then, add rice, dried seasonings, and chicken stock. Bring it to a boil and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Next, add seasoned chicken and cook until the rice is tender and the chicken is done. This takes about 7-10 minutes. Finally, add a bit of extra butter for richness and flavor.
- Sauté the carrots in butter.
- Add the rice, dried seasonings, and chicken stock.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then let the rice simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the seasoned chicken and continue cooking until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 7-10 more minutes.
- Stir in some extra butter to add richness and flavor.
These clear, step-by-step chicken and rice recipe instructions make it easy to prepare this comforting meal at home. The dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and rich broth, making it perfect for any occasion.
“This one-pot chicken and rice dish is a true classic that’s been passed down through generations in my family. It’s a comfort food staple that never fails to satisfy.”
Looking for a quick and easy dinner or a cozy weekend meal? This how to make chicken and rice recipe is a new family favorite. It’s simple to make and great for any time of the year.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our look at chicken over rice, it’s clear it’s a beloved comfort food. It’s simple yet flavorful, making it a hit for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Whether you follow the traditional recipe or add your own twist, this dish will win your heart. It’s easy to make and can be tailored to your liking. So, get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic chicken over rice recipe.
We hope you’re inspired to try this dish and make memories with your loved ones. Bon appétit!
FAQ
What is the classic combination of chicken and rice called?
The mix of chicken and rice is known as “chicken over rice,” “chicken rice plate,” or “rice and chicken.” It’s a comforting meal that families love.
What type of rice works best for this dish?
Choose high-quality, long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati. This ensures your rice stays fluffy and not mushy.
Can this dish be customized with different ingredients?
Yes, you can make it your own. Try using rotisserie chicken, fresh garlic and onion, or add veggies like celery, mushrooms, or peas.
What are some good side dish options to serve with this chicken and rice dish?
It goes well with many sides. Try a green salad, roasted veggies, or steamed broccoli or green beans. These add texture and nutrition.
Can this dish be made ahead and stored for later?
Yes, it’s perfect for leftovers and making ahead. You’ll get a big batch, great for eating over several meals. Store it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven to enjoy again.
