Chicken with Curried Rice

Curried Rice Recipe with Chicken from India

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken with Curried Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken breast with fragrant curry-spiced rice. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, as it is easy to prepare and full of delicious flavors.

History

The origins of Chicken with Curried Rice are not entirely clear, but it is likely inspired by traditional Indian and Asian cuisine. The combination of chicken and curry has been popular in many cultures for centuries, and this recipe puts a modern twist on a classic flavor pairing.

Ingredients

1 tbsp of butter or margarine
1 cup of thinly sliced carrots
1 cup of chopped onion
1 clove of minced garlic
1 cup of uncooked rice
0.5 tsp of curry powder
0.13 tsp of ground white pepper
2 cups of chicken broth
2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp of lemon juice
2 tbsp of vegetable oil
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, pounded to 0.25 inch thickness (about 1.5 lb (680 g))

How to prepare

Melt butter in a 2- to 3 qt (2.84-liter) saucepan over medium-high heat until it is hot.
Add carrots, onion, and garlic. Cook and stir until they are crisp-tender.
Add rice, curry, pepper, and broth. Bring it to a boil and stir once or twice.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat. Add parsley and lemon juice, and toss lightly.
Heat oil in a large skillet until it is hot. Add chicken and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side or until it is brown and no longer pink in the center.
Serve the chicken with rice and garnish as desired.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or peas to the rice for extra color and flavor.
Use coconut milk instead of chicken broth for a creamier curry rice.
Substitute tofu or shrimp for the chicken for a vegetarian or seafood version of this dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to pound the chicken breast halves to an even thickness before cooking to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.

- Adjust the amount of curry powder to suit your taste preferences - you can add more for a stronger curry flavor or less for a milder taste.

- For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices before cooking.

- Garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or mint, for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken with Curried Rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also pair it with naan bread or pita for a more substantial dish.

Cooking Techniques

To pound the chicken breast halves, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to flatten them to an even thickness.

- To ensure the rice cooks evenly, stir it occasionally while simmering and fluff it with a fork before serving.

- To check if the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter or ghee instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier alternative.

- Substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for the chicken breast if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the chicken just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken with Curried Rice on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation. You can also sprinkle toasted almonds or cashews on top for added crunch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken with Curried Rice with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling, to complement the spicy curry flavors. You can also serve it with a light beer or a refreshing iced tea.

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, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Chicken with Curried Rice contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in this dish primarily come from the rice, carrots, and onions. One serving of Chicken with Curried Rice contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the margarine, vegetable oil, and the natural fats in the chicken breast. One serving of Chicken with Curried Rice contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

The protein in this dish comes from the chicken breast and rice. One serving of Chicken with Curried Rice contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A from the carrots, vitamin C from the lemon juice, and various B vitamins from the chicken and rice. It also contains minerals such as iron, potassium, and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (margarine) and gluten (from the rice). It may also contain allergens such as garlic and onions. Be sure to check for any specific allergens before preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, Chicken with Curried Rice is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a nutritious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Chicken with Curried Rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful curry-spiced rice and tender chicken breast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this dish with your family and friends for a satisfying and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chicken with Curried Rice. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in a small village in India. My grandmother, who was known far and wide for her culinary skills, had invited a famous chef from the city to come and teach us some new recipes.

The chef arrived early in the morning, carrying with him a basket full of exotic spices and ingredients. As he began to demonstrate how to make the Chicken with Curried Rice, I was mesmerized by the colors and aromas that filled the kitchen. The rich scent of curry powder mixed with the tangy aroma of fresh ginger and garlic was like nothing I had ever experienced before.

I watched intently as the chef seasoned the chicken with a blend of spices, marinating it in a mixture of yogurt and lemon juice before roasting it to golden perfection. The rice was cooked separately, infused with even more spices and finished off with a generous sprinkling of toasted almonds and raisins.

As I took my first bite of the Chicken with Curried Rice, I was transported to a world of flavors and textures that I had never imagined possible. The tender chicken was infused with the warm, earthy flavors of the curry powder, while the rice was fluffy and fragrant, with a hint of sweetness from the raisins.

From that day on, I was determined to master the art of making Chicken with Curried Rice. I spent hours in the kitchen, experimenting with different spice blends and cooking techniques until I finally found the perfect combination of flavors that reminded me of that magical day with the chef.

Over the years, I have continued to refine my recipe, adding my own personal touches and adapting it to suit the tastes of my family. Each time I make Chicken with Curried Rice, I am reminded of that sense of wonder and excitement that I felt all those years ago.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to my own grandchildren, I hope that they too will experience the same joy and satisfaction that comes from creating a delicious meal from scratch. And who knows, perhaps one day they will add their own twist to the recipe and continue the tradition of culinary creativity that has been passed down through our family for generations.