Rice and Chicken

Maltese Rice and Chicken Recipe with Parsley and Vegetables

Region / culture: Malta | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Rice and chicken is a classic comfort food dish that is loved by many for its simplicity and delicious flavors. This recipe combines tender chicken pieces with fluffy rice and a variety of vegetables for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

History

Rice and chicken has been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. It is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and preferences. The combination of protein-rich chicken and carbohydrate-rich rice makes it a filling and nutritious meal.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of long-grain rice
2 tbsp of butter or margarine
2 cups of boiling water
1 tbsp of chicken bouillon
2 tsp of onion powder
1 tbsp of fresh minced parsley
1.5 cups of sliced carrots
1 cup of chopped celery
1 cup of broccoli, cut up
salt and pepper
1 crushed garlic clove
1 tbsp of paprika
a good pinch of cumin
a good pinch of celery powder
1 lb (454 g) of chicken, cut into 7 or pieces

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
In a large shallow casserole dish (9 by 13 inches), combine the rice, one tablespoon of butter, boiling water, chicken and onion bouillon, parsley, and vegetables.
Stir the mixture well.
Arrange the chicken pieces on top.
Generously sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper, then with garlic powder and paprika.
Drizzle the chicken with the remaining tablespoon of melted butter or margarine.
Cover the casserole and cook for 20 minutes. The total cooking time should be about one hour.
Bake until the rice is tender and the chicken is thoroughly cooked with slightly crisp skin.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Swap out the chicken for turkey or pork for a different flavor profile.
Add in different vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or zucchini for added color and texture.
Experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the dish to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and spices for maximum flavor.

- Use a shallow casserole dish to ensure even cooking of the rice and chicken.

- Cover the casserole dish while baking to prevent the rice from drying out.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this recipe to suit your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this rice and chicken dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. You can also pair it with a slice of crusty bread or dinner rolls.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the rice and chicken in a casserole dish allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the chicken is cooked through. The covered dish helps to trap in moisture and prevent the rice from drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have margarine on hand, you can use butter or olive oil as a substitute. You can also use chicken broth instead of chicken bouillon for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice and chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it. This is a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this rice and chicken dish in individual bowls or on a platter for a family-style meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This rice and chicken dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer. You can also serve it with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish until heated through or bake it in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this rice and chicken dish contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

The main source of carbohydrates in this recipe comes from the long-grain rice, which provides energy to fuel your body throughout the day.

Fats

The margarine used in this recipe adds a rich and buttery flavor to the dish. It also provides essential fats that are needed for overall health and well-being.

Proteins

Chicken is a lean source of protein that is essential for muscle growth and repair. It also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied after a meal.

Vitamins and minerals

The vegetables in this recipe, such as carrots, celery, and broccoli, are packed with vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health. These include vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (margarine) and gluten (from the chicken bouillon). Please be mindful of any allergies or dietary restrictions when preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, this rice and chicken dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a nutritious and delicious option for lunch or dinner.

Summary

Rice and chicken is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes. Enjoy the delicious flavors and nutritious ingredients in this wholesome meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Martha in her cozy little kitchen. As we chatted and sipped on some tea, she suddenly got up and started rummaging through her recipe box.

"Ah ha!" she exclaimed, pulling out a faded index card. "I have the perfect recipe for us to try today."

She laid the card on the counter, and I leaned in to read the handwritten instructions. It was a recipe for Rice and Chicken, a simple yet flavorful dish that seemed to be a staple in Martha's kitchen.

As Martha gathered the ingredients and started cooking, I watched in awe as she effortlessly transformed a handful of simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the Rice and Chicken. The flavors exploded in my mouth, and I couldn't believe how delicious it was. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

Over the years, I had the opportunity to taste many variations of Rice and Chicken. I learned different techniques and flavor combinations from my family, friends, and even strangers I met along the way. Each recipe had its own unique twist, but they all shared a common thread of comfort and nostalgia.

One of my favorite memories of learning new recipes was when I visited my aunt in the countryside. She lived in a quaint little cottage surrounded by lush gardens and fruit trees. She was a talented cook, and I always looked forward to our cooking sessions together.

One sunny afternoon, my aunt taught me her take on Rice and Chicken. She used fresh herbs from her garden, tender chicken thighs, and fragrant spices to create a dish that was truly unforgettable. We spent the afternoon chopping, sautéing, and simmering, filling the cottage with the most mouthwatering aromas.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, my aunt shared stories of her own culinary adventures and the recipes she had collected over the years. I listened intently, soaking up every bit of knowledge she imparted. By the time dessert rolled around, I had a notebook full of new recipes to try at home.

Another memorable experience was when I attended a cooking class in a bustling market in a far-off land. The instructor was a wise old woman with weathered hands and a kind smile. She spoke in a language I didn't understand, but her gestures and expressions were enough to convey her vast knowledge of cooking.

I watched in awe as she effortlessly prepared Rice and Chicken, using ingredients I had never heard of before. She showed me how to blend spices, how to layer flavors, and how to cook with love and intention. By the end of the class, I felt like I had gained a new friend and a newfound appreciation for the art of cooking.

As the years went by, I continued to hone my skills and experiment with different recipes. I combined elements from all the recipes I had collected, adding my own personal touch to create a Rice and Chicken dish that was uniquely mine. I cooked for my family, my friends, and anyone else who was lucky enough to taste my creations.

To this day, whenever I make Rice and Chicken, I think back to all the wonderful memories and experiences that have shaped my culinary journey. Every bite is a reminder of the love and passion that goes into every dish, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with the ones I hold dear.

So, if you ever find yourself in my kitchen, be prepared to be whisked away on a culinary adventure unlike any other. I may not have a fancy culinary degree or a Michelin star, but what I lack in training, I make up for in heart and soul. And that, my dear, is the secret ingredient that makes every dish truly special.