Islander Chicken and Rice

Islander Chicken and Rice Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Islander Chicken and Rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce and fragrant rice. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Islander Chicken and Rice is a popular dish that originated in the Pacific Islands. It combines traditional island flavors with modern cooking techniques to create a unique and delicious meal.

Ingredients

2.5 to 3 lb (1.36 kg) frying chicken, cut up
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
2 tbsp vegetable oil
0.5 cup chopped onion
2 x 8 oz (227 g) cans pineapple chunks (drain; reserve juice)
1 x 10.75 oz (305 g) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp dry white wine
1 tsp lemon juice
3 cup hot cooked rice
0.25 cup sliced almonds, toasted

How to prepare

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
Heat oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and lightly brown it. Push the chicken to one side.
Add the onion and cook until it becomes transparent. Pour off any excess fat.
Combine pineapple juice, condensed soup, ginger, soy sauce, wine, and lemon juice. Pour the mixture over the chicken. Cover and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes.
Combine rice and almonds. Serve them with the chicken and sauce.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian option.
Add diced bell peppers or pineapple chunks for extra flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken well before cooking to enhance the flavors of the dish.

- Browning the chicken before adding the sauce helps to seal in the juices and create a crispy exterior.

- Simmering the chicken in the sauce allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Islander Chicken and Rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken before simmering helps to develop a rich flavor in the dish.

- Simmering the chicken in the sauce allows the flavors to meld together and creates a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use coconut milk instead of cream of chicken soup for a tropical twist.

- Substitute almonds with cashews or peanuts for a different nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Islander Chicken and Rice can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Islander Chicken and Rice with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Islander Chicken and Rice with a glass of chilled white wine or a tropical fruit cocktail for a refreshing and delicious pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Islander Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 400 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 2mg per serving

Vitamin C: 10mg per serving

Alergens

Contains: Soy, nuts

Summary

Islander Chicken and Rice is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and delicious choice for any meal.

Summary

Islander Chicken and Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce and fragrant rice. With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, this dish is a nutritious and delicious choice for any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a hot summer day, and I had just finished picking fresh herbs from my garden when my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, stopped by with a plate of Islander Chicken and Rice. The aroma that wafted from the dish was intoxicating, a mix of exotic spices and savory flavors that made my mouth water.

Mrs. Jenkins had just returned from a vacation in the Caribbean, where she had learned this recipe from a local chef. As we sat on my porch, savoring each bite of the delicious dish, she shared the story of how she came to know the recipe.

"It all started with a trip to the market in the heart of the island," Mrs. Jenkins began. "The air was filled with the sounds of vendors hawking their wares, and the vibrant colors of tropical fruits and spices filled my senses. I stumbled upon a small, unassuming food stall run by a local woman named Maria. She was cooking up a storm, and the smell coming from her pot was irresistible."

"I struck up a conversation with Maria, and she graciously shared her recipe for Islander Chicken and Rice with me. She explained that it was a traditional dish in her family, passed down through generations. The secret, she said, lay in the blend of spices she used, a combination of turmeric, cumin, and paprika that gave the dish its distinctive flavor."

As Mrs. Jenkins recounted her encounter with Maria, I couldn't help but be captivated by the story. I could almost envision the bustling market, the warm sun beating down on the colorful stalls, and the tantalizing aroma of Maria's cooking filling the air.

After Mrs. Jenkins left, I couldn't stop thinking about the Islander Chicken and Rice recipe. I was determined to recreate it in my own kitchen and bring a taste of the Caribbean to my family. I went straight to work, gathering the ingredients and following the instructions Mrs. Jenkins had shared with me.

The process of making Islander Chicken and Rice was a labor of love. I marinated the chicken in a blend of spices and herbs, then seared it to perfection in a hot pan. I sautéed onions and bell peppers until they were soft and fragrant, then added in the chicken and simmered it all together with coconut milk and rice.

As the dish cooked, the aromas that filled my kitchen transported me to a faraway island, where the sun always shines, and the sea breeze carries the scent of exotic spices. By the time the dish was ready, I couldn't wait to dig in and savor the fruits of my labor.

The first bite of Islander Chicken and Rice was a revelation. The flavors were bold and complex, a perfect balance of savory and sweet, with a hint of heat from the spices. Each mouthful was a symphony of tastes and textures, a true culinary delight that left me craving more.

I shared the dish with my family, and they were equally impressed by the exotic flavors and fragrances of Islander Chicken and Rice. They couldn't believe that I had learned to make such a delicious dish from a simple recipe shared by a neighbor.

As I sat at the table, watching my loved ones enjoy the meal I had prepared, I felt a sense of pride and contentment wash over me. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express my creativity and share my love with those around me. And now, thanks to Mrs. Jenkins and Maria, I had a new recipe to add to my repertoire, a taste of the Caribbean that would become a family favorite for years to come.

So, whenever I make Islander Chicken and Rice, I think back to that hot summer day when Mrs. Jenkins first shared the recipe with me. I remember the sights and sounds of the Caribbean market, the warmth of the sun on my skin, and the tantalizing aroma of Maria's cooking. And I am grateful for the opportunity to bring a taste of that experience into my own home, and into the hearts and bellies of my beloved family.