Heritage Chicken and Rice

Heritage Chicken and Rice Recipe from USA with Pimentos, Olives and Capers

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Heritage Chicken and Rice is a classic dish that brings together tender chicken with flavorful rice, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, as it is both delicious and easy to prepare.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in many families, with each cook adding their own twist to make it unique. The combination of chicken and rice has long been a staple in many cultures, providing a hearty and filling meal that is loved by all.

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked rice
0.33 cup diced pimentos
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
2 cup boiling chicken broth
2 tbsp melted butter or margarine
0.25 tsp garlic salt
0.25 tsp celery salt
1 tsp paprika
0.13 tsp ground red pepper
3 chicken breasts, halved, boned and skinned (about 1.5 lb (680 g))
0.33 cup sliced ripe olives
1 tbsp capers (optional)

How to prepare

Combine rice, pimientos, parsley, broth, and butter in a shallow 3 qt (2.84 liter) baking dish. Stir well.
Sprinkle garlic salt, celery salt, paprika, and pepper on the chicken.
Place the chicken on top of the rice mixture.
Cover the dish and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 45 minutes or until the chicken and rice are tender.
Stir in the capers before serving.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier twist.
Substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for the chicken breasts for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken well before placing it on top of the rice mixture to ensure that it is flavorful throughout.

- Stir in the capers at the end to add a burst of briny flavor to the dish.

- For a crispy top, uncover the dish for the last 10 minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Heritage Chicken and Rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and well-rounded meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of margarine for a healthier option.

- Substitute green olives for the ripe olives for a different flavor profile.

- Omit the capers if you are not a fan of their briny taste.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake with the chicken. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color and added freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Heritage Chicken and Rice with a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a delightful dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 35g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 1g

Fats

- Total Fat: 10g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 15%

- Calcium: 4%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a nutritious option for a satisfying dinner.

Summary

Heritage Chicken and Rice is a timeless recipe that brings together tender chicken and flavorful rice in a comforting and satisfying dish. With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients, it is a nutritious option for a delicious meal. Enjoy this classic recipe with your family and friends for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own beloved grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, creating delicious dishes that always left us wanting more. One day, as I stood by her side watching her work her magic, she decided to teach me a special recipe that had been passed down through our family for generations - Heritage Chicken and Rice.

As she shared the recipe with me, I could see the love and passion she had for cooking shining through in her eyes. She told me that this dish was a staple in our family, a recipe that had been handed down from mother to daughter for as long as anyone could remember. It was a dish that brought us together, that reminded us of our roots and the traditions that we held dear.

The first step in making Heritage Chicken and Rice, my grandmother explained, was to start with a whole chicken. She showed me how to carefully clean and season the bird, preparing it for roasting in the oven. While the chicken cooked to golden perfection, we worked on the rice, using a special blend of herbs and spices that had been passed down through the generations.

As the aromas of the dish filled the kitchen, I could feel a sense of pride and accomplishment welling up inside me. I was learning a recipe that had been cherished by my family for years, a recipe that connected me to my past and to the women who had come before me. It was a powerful feeling, one that I knew would stay with me for the rest of my life.

When the Heritage Chicken and Rice was finally ready, my grandmother and I sat down together to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The tender chicken, the flavorful rice, the rich broth - it was a meal that was unlike any I had ever tasted before. As we savored each bite, my grandmother shared stories of her own childhood, of learning to cook from her mother and grandmother just as I was learning from her.

That day marked the beginning of my own journey into the world of cooking. I took the recipe for Heritage Chicken and Rice with me, treasuring it like a precious heirloom. Over the years, I have made it for my own family, passing down the tradition to my children and grandchildren. Each time I make the dish, I am reminded of that special day in my grandmother's kitchen, of the love and history that are woven into every bite.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing Heritage Chicken and Rice for yet another family gathering, I can't help but smile. The recipe may be simple, but the memories and emotions that come with it are anything but. It is a dish that connects me to my past, that reminds me of the strong, resilient women who came before me. It is a dish that tells a story, a story of love, tradition, and the power of food to bring us together.

And as I serve the Heritage Chicken and Rice to my loved ones, I know that I am passing on more than just a recipe. I am passing on a piece of my family's history, a piece of myself. And that, to me, is the true magic of cooking - the ability to create something that is so much more than just a meal. It is a connection to the past, a bridge to the future, and a reminder of the love that binds us all together.