Italian Chicken with Colorful Rice

Italian Chicken with Colorful Rice Recipe - Authentic Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Italian Chicken with Colorful Rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a colorful rice mixture. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, as it is both satisfying and visually appealing.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Italian cooking, which is known for its use of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The combination of chicken, mushrooms, tomatoes, and spinach in a savory sauce is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for generations.

Ingredients

0.5 cup flour
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp basil
0.25 tsp ground oregano
0.25 tsp ground thyme
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
2 to 2.5 lb (1.13 kg) frying chicken, cut up
2 tbsp butter or margarine
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1.5 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
0.5 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp dry white wine
3 cups hot cooked rice
2 cups diced tomatoes, or 12 cherry tomatoes, halved
0.5 cup chopped fresh spinach

How to prepare

In a plastic bag, mix flour, salt, basil, oregano, thyme, and pepper.
Add chicken pieces one at a time, shaking to coat.
Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook, turning, for about 20 minutes or until brown on all sides.
Add mushrooms and cook over medium heat for 3 minutes.
Combine broth and wine, then add to the skillet. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes or until chicken is tender.
Remove chicken and keep warm. Pour off fat, leaving brown particles and mushrooms. Return 1 tbsp of fat to the skillet.
Stir rice into the drippings.
Add tomatoes and spinach to the rice mixture. Toss lightly until thoroughly heated, about 3 minutes.
Transfer rice to a serving platter and arrange chicken on top.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or zucchini to the rice mixture for extra color and flavor.
Use different herbs and spices, such as rosemary or parsley, to customize the seasoning of the chicken.
Substitute brown rice or quinoa for the white rice for a healthier alternative.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to coat the chicken pieces evenly with the seasoned flour mixture to ensure a crispy and flavorful crust.

- Cooking the chicken in a combination of oil and butter helps to brown the chicken and adds richness to the dish.

- Adding the mushrooms to the skillet after browning the chicken allows them to soak up the flavors of the chicken and spices.

- Simmering the chicken in a mixture of broth and wine helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with additional flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Italian Chicken with Colorful Rice with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing drink.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken before simmering it helps to seal in the juices and create a flavorful crust.

- Tossing the rice with the tomatoes and spinach at the end helps to heat the vegetables without overcooking them.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute olive oil for vegetable oil for a Mediterranean twist.

- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken pieces for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the seasoned flour mixture and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save time on the day of cooking. Store the ingredients in separate containers in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the colorful rice mixture on a large serving platter for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Italian Chicken with Colorful Rice pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with sparkling water or a fruity iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a microwave-safe container and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Italian Chicken with Colorful Rice contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in this dish come primarily from the rice, which provides a good source of energy. Each serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this dish come from the margarine, vegetable oil, and chicken. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

The protein in this dish comes from the chicken, which is a lean source of protein. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium. The tomatoes and spinach provide a good source of vitamins and antioxidants.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat (flour) and dairy (margarine). It may also contain soy (vegetable oil). Please check for allergens before preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying and nutritious option for a family dinner.

Summary

Italian Chicken with Colorful Rice is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with a flavorful rice mixture. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, this recipe is a nutritious option for a family dinner or special occasion. Enjoy this classic Italian dish with your loved ones for a memorable meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. The vibrant colors of the dish and the rich flavors of the Italian chicken and colorful rice captured my attention and I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I first came across this recipe when I was visiting my friend Maria in Italy. She invited me over for dinner and served this delicious dish that her grandmother used to make for her. I could tell that it was a cherished family recipe that had been passed down through the generations.

As I savored each bite of the tender chicken and flavorful rice, I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. Maria graciously shared the recipe with me and showed me how to prepare it step by step.

The key to making this dish is to marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon juice. This marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of flavor and keeps it moist and juicy during cooking.

Once the chicken is marinated, it is seared in a hot skillet until golden brown and cooked through. The aromas that fill the kitchen as the chicken sizzles in the pan are simply heavenly.

While the chicken is cooking, the colorful rice is prepared by sautéing bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes in olive oil until they are tender. Then, the rice is added to the skillet along with chicken broth and a pinch of saffron for a pop of color and flavor.

The rice simmers on the stove until it is fluffy and infused with the savory flavors of the vegetables and saffron. The combination of the tender chicken and vibrant rice is a match made in culinary heaven.

I have since made this Italian chicken with colorful rice recipe for my family and friends on numerous occasions. Each time I prepare it, I am transported back to that cozy kitchen in Italy where Maria first shared the recipe with me.

I have adapted the recipe over the years, adding my own twists and tweaks to make it my own. Sometimes I add a splash of white wine to the chicken marinade for an extra layer of flavor, or I sprinkle fresh herbs on top of the finished dish for a burst of freshness.

No matter how I choose to prepare it, this Italian chicken with colorful rice recipe will always hold a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones and the power of food to bring people together.

I am grateful to have learned this recipe from Maria and to have the opportunity to pass it down to future generations. I hope that they will enjoy it as much as I have and that it will continue to bring joy and happiness to our family gatherings for years to come.

Buon appetito!