Introduction
Grandma’s Classic Chicken and Rice is a timeless comfort dish that’s simple, hearty, and full of home-cooked goodness. With tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a rich, savory broth, this one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is easy to prepare, packed with comforting flavors, and requires minimal cleanup. It’s a great make-ahead meal and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken and Rice:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, and cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onions, garlic, and carrots until softened (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in the rice, chicken broth, milk, and dried thyme.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice absorbs most of the liquid.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving
- Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Pair with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Rice
- Use long-grain rice for a fluffy texture.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese before serving.
Variations & Extra Flavor
- Cheesy Chicken and Rice: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese.
- Spicy Version: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Veggie-Packed: Mix in mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and essential nutrients. The chicken offers lean protein, while the vegetables contribute fiber and vitamins.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
How should I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze Chicken and Rice? Yes! Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy Grandma’s Classic Chicken and Rice! It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that brings warmth to any table. Try it out and let us know how it turns out!
