Brown Rice Chicken Skillet Dinner

Brown Rice Chicken Skillet Dinner Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Brown Rice Chicken Skillet Dinner is a delicious and nutritious one-pan meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on a classic Italian dish, combining the flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasonings with the heartiness of brown rice and chicken. It is a versatile and easy-to-make meal that has been enjoyed by families for generations.

Ingredients

1 tbsp oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 large cloves garlic, minced
1 lb (454 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1 inch pieces
1 can (14.5 oz or 411 g) whole tomatoes, coarsely chopped
1 can (6 oz or 170 g) tomato paste
0.5 cup water
2 tsp dried italian seasonings
0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
3 cups hot cooked brown rice
1 package (10 oz or 283 g) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the onion is tender.
Add chicken and cook just until the chicken loses its pink color, stirring constantly.
Add tomatoes, tomato paste, water, Italian seasoning, and pepper flakes. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes.
Stir in rice, spinach, and 0.25 cup of cheese; heat thoroughly. Sprinkle with the remaining 0.25 cup of cheese just before serving.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra vegetables.
Use quinoa or couscous instead of brown rice for a different flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to squeeze the excess water out of the thawed spinach to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.

- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.

- To save time, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken from scratch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Cooking Techniques

Make sure to cook the chicken until it is no longer pink to ensure it is fully cooked.

- Simmer the sauce for at least 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir in the spinach at the end to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of rice or grain you prefer, such as white rice, quinoa, or barley.

- Substitute the frozen spinach with fresh spinach or kale.

- Use any type of cheese you like, such as mozzarella or cheddar.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it in a large serving bowl or individual plates for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This Brown Rice Chicken Skillet Dinner pairs well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. For dessert, consider serving fresh fruit or a light sorbet.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Brown Rice Chicken Skillet Dinner contains approximately 400 calories. This makes it a satisfying and balanced meal option.

Carbohydrates

This dish is a great source of complex carbohydrates from the brown rice, providing sustained energy throughout the day. Each serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The main source of fat in this recipe comes from the oil used for cooking and the parmesan cheese. Each serving contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Chicken is the primary source of protein in this dish, with each serving containing approximately 30 grams of protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium. These nutrients are important for maintaining a healthy immune system, strong bones, and overall well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (parmesan cheese) and gluten (from the brown rice). It may not be suitable for individuals with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Overall, this Brown Rice Chicken Skillet Dinner is a well-rounded meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a nutritious and delicious option for a family dinner.

Summary

This Brown Rice Chicken Skillet Dinner is a flavorful and nutritious meal that is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Brown Rice Chicken Skillet Dinner. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy little cottage by the lake. Margaret was a fantastic cook, and I always loved trying out new recipes in her kitchen.

As we sat down to enjoy a cup of tea, Margaret suddenly pulled out a well-worn recipe card from her recipe box. She had a mischievous twinkle in her eye as she handed it to me, saying, "I think you'll love this one, dear. It's one of my favorites."

I eagerly took the card from her and read through the ingredients and instructions. The combination of tender chicken, nutty brown rice, and savory spices sounded absolutely delicious. I couldn't wait to give it a try.

Margaret explained that she had learned this recipe from her own grandmother many years ago. Her grandmother was a wonderful cook who had a knack for creating simple yet flavorful dishes. Margaret had fond memories of helping her in the kitchen, stirring pots and tasting samples along the way.

I was inspired by Margaret's story and decided to make this Brown Rice Chicken Skillet Dinner for my own family. I picked up the necessary ingredients from the local market and set to work in my own kitchen.

As the aroma of garlic and onions sautéing filled the air, I thought back to the days when I was just a young girl learning how to cook from my own grandmother. She was a wise and patient teacher, always encouraging me to experiment with new flavors and techniques.

I added the chicken pieces to the skillet, watching as they sizzled and browned to perfection. The rice and spices were then added, along with a generous amount of chicken broth to help everything cook together.

I couldn't help but smile as I stirred the ingredients together, knowing that this dish would soon become a family favorite. The memories of my grandmother and Margaret's grandmother seemed to swirl around me, guiding my hands as I cooked.

After a short while, the Brown Rice Chicken Skillet Dinner was ready to be served. I ladled generous portions onto each plate, garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

As my family sat down to eat, the room filled with chatter and laughter. The first bite of the dish was met with approving nods and exclamations of delight. The flavors were rich and comforting, a true testament to the time-honored recipe.

I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride as I watched my loved ones enjoy the meal. The recipe had brought us all together, connecting us through shared memories of loved ones past and present.

As I cleared the dishes and washed the pots and pans, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking that had been passed down through the generations. The Brown Rice Chicken Skillet Dinner was more than just a meal – it was a connection to the past and a promise for the future.

And so, I continue to make this recipe whenever I want to feel close to my grandmother and Margaret's grandmother. It's a reminder of the love and care that went into every dish they cooked, and a tribute to the joy that can be found in a simple skillet dinner shared with family and friends.