Brown Rice 'n' Broccoli Chicken

Introduction

History

This recipe is a modern twist on the classic chicken and rice casserole. By using brown rice instead of white rice, we are adding more fiber and nutrients to the dish. The addition of broccoli not only adds color and texture but also boosts the dish's vitamin and mineral content.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to blanch the broccoli before adding it to the dish to ensure that it is cooked through but still retains its vibrant green color.

- To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for this recipe.

- Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Brown Rice 'n' Broccoli Chicken with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. You can also pair it with a crusty bread or dinner rolls.

Cooking Techniques

Blanching the broccoli before adding it to the dish ensures that it is cooked through but still retains its vibrant color and crisp texture. Baking the casserole allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to melt and become gooey.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have brown rice, you can use white rice or quinoa instead. You can also use any type of cheese that melts well, such as Swiss or Gouda.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before serving for a cheesy finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Brown Rice 'n' Broccoli Chicken pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake the casserole in the oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Brown Rice 'n' Broccoli Chicken contains approximately 400 calories. This makes it a satisfying and balanced meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Brown Rice 'n' Broccoli Chicken contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates. Brown rice is a complex carbohydrate that provides sustained energy, while broccoli adds fiber to aid in digestion.

Fats

This dish contains around 15 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the cheese and almonds. These healthy fats are essential for brain function and overall health.

Proteins

With about 25 grams of protein per serving, Brown Rice 'n' Broccoli Chicken is a great source of this essential macronutrient. Protein is important for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the broccoli and almonds. Broccoli is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, while almonds provide vitamin E and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, cheese, and almonds, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, Brown Rice 'n' Broccoli Chicken is a nutritious and well-rounded meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Brown Rice 'n' Broccoli Chicken is a wholesome and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. Packed with nutrients and delicious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy little cottage by the sea. Martha was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I always looked forward to trying out her latest culinary creations.

On that particular day, Martha had prepared a mouthwatering dish that she called Brown Rice 'n' Broccoli Chicken. As soon as I took my first bite, I knew that I had to get the recipe from her. The flavors of the tender chicken, nutty brown rice, and vibrant broccoli melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying.

After finishing my meal, I begged Martha to share the recipe with me. She smiled and told me that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. Martha graciously agreed to teach me how to make it, and we spent the afternoon in her cozy kitchen, chopping vegetables, seasoning the chicken, and simmering everything together in a fragrant broth.

As we cooked, Martha shared stories of her grandmother and the many delicious meals she had made for her family over the years. I listened intently, soaking in every detail of the recipe and the love and care that went into preparing it. By the time we sat down to enjoy our meal, I knew that this dish would become a treasured favorite in my own repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Brown Rice 'n' Broccoli Chicken countless times, each time bringing back memories of that special day with Martha. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on not just the ingredients and instructions, but also the story behind it. Cooking this dish always fills me with a sense of connection to the past and the generations of women who have lovingly prepared it before me.

To make Brown Rice 'n' Broccoli Chicken, you will need:

- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

- 1 cup brown rice

- 2 cups chicken broth

- 1 onion, diced

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Olive oil for cooking

Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, and cook until browned on all sides.

Next, add the brown rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the flavorful mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, and season with the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice cook for about 45 minutes, or until tender and fluffy.

Once the rice is cooked, add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cover and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serve the Brown Rice 'n' Broccoli Chicken hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice. Enjoy this comforting and nutritious dish with your loved ones, and savor the memories that it brings to mind.

I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I have, and that it becomes a beloved favorite in your own kitchen. Cooking is about so much more than just following a set of instructions – it's about creating memories, sharing stories, and connecting with the people and traditions that shape us. May this dish bring you joy, comfort, and a sense of connection to those who have come before. Happy cooking!

Categories

| Almond Recipes | American Recipes | Broccoli Recipes | Brown Rice Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Main Dish Poultry Recipes | Mozzarella Recipes |

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