Hill Country Chicken and Rice

Hill Country Chicken and Rice Recipe - Authentic American Cuisine

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Hill Country Chicken and Rice is a classic Southern dish that is hearty, flavorful, and comforting. This recipe combines tender chicken pieces with seasoned rice for a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

This recipe has its roots in the rural areas of the Southern United States, where chicken and rice were staple ingredients that were readily available. It was a popular dish among families looking for a filling and affordable meal that could feed a crowd.

Ingredients

1 broiler-fryer, cut into serving pieces
1 tsp seasoned salt
1 tsp paprika
0.5 tsp garlic salt
0.25 tsp seasoned pepper
1 large, heavy brown paper bag
1 tbsp vegetable oil

Seasoned rice

1 cup uncooked rice
0.5 cup sliced green onions
1 tbsp butter or margarine
1 x 4 oz (113 g) can sliced mushrooms, including liquid
2 cup chicken broth
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp seasoned pepper

How to prepare

Wash and dry the chicken. Combine seasoned salt, paprika, garlic salt, and seasoned pepper; sprinkle the mixture over the chicken. Rub the inside of a bag with oil.
Arrange the chicken inside the bag on a greased surface, forming a single layer. Close the bag opening and secure it with paper clips.
Place the bag on a foil-lined baking pan and bake at 375°F (191°C) for 1 hour. Serve with rice.

Seasoned rice

Place the rice in a baking dish.
In a saucepan, cook the onions in butter until soft.
Add mushrooms, broth, salt, and seasoned pepper. Heat to boiling. Pour the mixture over the rice and stir.
Cover with a tight-fitting lid or heavy-duty foil and bake at 375°F (191°C) for 25 to 30 minutes.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier option.
Substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for a different flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken well before baking to ensure that it is flavorful.

- Use a heavy brown paper bag to bake the chicken, as it helps to lock in moisture and create a tender texture.

- Be sure to cook the rice until it is tender and fluffy, and stir it occasionally to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Hill Country Chicken and Rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the chicken in a paper bag helps to lock in moisture and create a tender texture, while baking the rice in the seasoned broth infuses it with flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe by using your favorite herbs and spices, or by swapping out ingredients based on your dietary preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the seasoned rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake with the chicken.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Hill Country Chicken and Rice on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, 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 in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hill Country Chicken and Rice contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying meal that won't weigh you down.

Carbohydrates

The seasoned rice in this dish is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel your day.

Fats

The chicken in this recipe provides a good source of protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Proteins

Chicken is a lean source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, iron, and zinc from the chicken, as well as vitamin D and selenium from the mushrooms.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat from the seasoned salt and may contain dairy from the margarine. Be sure to check for any allergens before preparing this dish.

Summary

Hill Country Chicken and Rice is a well-rounded meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Hill Country Chicken and Rice is a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. With its tender chicken and flavorful seasoned rice, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Hill Country Chicken and Rice. It was a cool autumn day, and I had just finished helping my mother gather eggs from the henhouse. As we made our way back to the house, my mother mentioned that we would be having a special dish for dinner that evening. She said that she had learned the recipe from an old friend who lived in the Hill Country of Texas.

I was intrigued by the sound of the dish and asked my mother if I could help her prepare it. She smiled and nodded, happy to have my assistance in the kitchen. We gathered the ingredients together: chicken, rice, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices. As we worked side by side, my mother shared with me the story of how she had come to learn the recipe.

Many years ago, when I was just a young girl, my mother had taken me on a trip to visit her friend in the Hill Country. I remember the rolling hills, the endless fields of wildflowers, and the warm hospitality of the people we met. My mother's friend, Mrs. Jenkins, was a wonderful cook and she had prepared this dish for us during our visit.

I remember watching in awe as Mrs. Jenkins effortlessly chopped vegetables, seasoned the chicken, and cooked everything together in a large pot. The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish. When it was finally ready, Mrs. Jenkins served us each a generous portion of the chicken and rice, and I remember savoring every bite.

As my mother recounted this story, I could see the fondness in her eyes as she remembered that special trip. She told me that Mrs. Jenkins had generously shared the recipe with her, and she had been making it for our family ever since. I felt honored to be a part of this tradition, passing down the recipe from one generation to the next.

As we finished preparing the dish, the savory smells filled the kitchen, and I knew that dinner would be a special treat. The chicken and rice simmered on the stove, the flavors melding together to create a delicious and comforting meal. I couldn't wait to sit down at the table and enjoy this taste of the Hill Country.

When dinner was finally served, my family gathered around the table, eager to dig in. The chicken was tender and juicy, the rice fluffy and flavorful. The vegetables added a burst of color and freshness to the dish. As we ate, we shared stories and laughter, enjoying each other's company and the delicious meal before us.

As I looked around the table at my loved ones, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the memories and traditions that we shared. This recipe for Hill Country Chicken and Rice was more than just a dish – it was a connection to my past, to my mother's past, and to the generations that had come before us. It was a reminder of the love and care that went into preparing a meal for those we hold dear.

As I sat back in my chair, savoring the last few bites of chicken and rice, I knew that this recipe would continue to hold a special place in my heart. It was a reminder of the bonds that tied us together, of the stories and traditions that we passed down through the generations. And as I cleaned up the dishes and put away the leftovers, I knew that this recipe would be one that I would continue to make for my own family, sharing the love and memories that it held with each delicious bite.