Quick and Easy Chicken And Rice for Busy Weeknights

On weekdays, when time is a luxury, recipes that deliver flavor and convenience are a treasure. I always turn to chicken and rice dishes, a favorite at our family table. They are perfect for those bustling weeknight evenings.

Enjoy a delicious, hassle-free dinner with our Quick and Easy Chicken and Rice, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Weeknight Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe

Ingredients in Detailed Chicken And Rice

For the Weeknight Cheesy Chicken and Rice recipe, gather these simple ingredients to whip up a comforting dinner in no time:

·         one rotisserie chicken, shredded (feel free to cook your chicken preferred)

·         2 cups rice, rinsed and drained

·         1 cup of shredded cheese (preferably a blend for extra flavor)

·         3 cups of chicken broth (to cook the rice and add richness)

·         1 cup mixed vegetables (pre-chopped to save on prep time)

·         Salt and pepper to taste

·         Optional: herbs or spices to enhance the flavor, such as garlic powder or paprika

This set of ingredients ensures a flavor-packed dinner that’s quick and simple to prepare, perfect for those busy weeknight dinners with your family.

Equipment

• Stove
• cutting board
• chef knife
• large 3 quart skillet
• large spoon for stirring rice
• measuring cups
• measuring spoons

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cups diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup chopped white onion
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups white rice
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 cups cooked diced chicken
• 1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Why You will Love This Recipe

You’ll love this chicken and rice recipe because it’s easy to make, even during those busy weeknights, and just as perfect for weekend entertaining. Packed with juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and gooey cheese, it’s a meal that everyone loves. The best part? The great leftovers it makes ensure you have a tasty lunch waiting for you the next day. For those who adore slow cooking, try the Crock Pot Chicken and Rice recipe; it infuses deep flavors into every bite. And remember to follow Picky Palate on Instagram for daily recipe inspiration. This dish is not just about feeding the stomach; it’s about feeding the soul, making every dinner feel like a special occasion. And if you’re in the mood for something different, a Crispy Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich is a great alternative.

What You Will Need For Chicken and Rice

Essential Ingredients for Your Chicken and Rice Dish

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delightful Chicken and Rice meal that your family will love. You’ll need some basic staples, such as chicken, ideally a rotisserie chicken for convenience, and white rice. To add depth and richness to the dish, use low-sodium chicken broth, which allows the natural flavors of your other ingredients to shine through.

Preparing Your Veggies

For the vegetable component, grab some carrots, celery, and onion—white onion is preferred for its mild flavor. Whether you use baby or whole carrots, peel, chop, and dice them properly. Celery stalks should be washed and diced as well. These veggies add crunch and build a foundation of flavors that complement the chicken beautifully.

Seasoning and Cheese for Extra Flavor

Seasoning is critical in any dish, and for this recipe, a combination of garlic salt, specifically Lawry’s, dried paprika, and a hint of red pepper flakes will enhance the overall flavor. To avoid irritation, wash your hands after handling the red pepper flakes. To top it off, shredded cheddar cheese—or your favorite cheese blend—will be melted into the dish, giving it a gooey, irresistible texture.

Cooking Techniques and Tips

Start by sautéing your veggies in extra virgin olive oil, which helps cook them to perfection and infuses the dish with a subtle richness. As for the garlic, you can choose between fresh garlic and minced garlic from jars—the latter being a great time-saver. The rice can be pre-cooked and microwaved to save time during busy weeknights. Combining all these elements into a single pot makes for easier prep and cleanup, ensuring your weeknight dinner prep is enjoyable and efficient.

How To Make Chicken and Rice

If you’re in the mood for a warm, comforting dish, this Cheesy Chicken and Rice recipe might just be what you need. I often turn to it on chilly evenings when the family is craving something hearty and satisfying.

Start by heating some oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute the carrots, celery, onions, and garlic for about five minutes until softening. The aroma of vegetables cooking always brings a homely feeling to my kitchen.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and stir in the rice. Cover with a lid and let it cook for about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the rice is cooked, and the liquid is mostly gone. This step reminds me of the magic under the lid, as everything comes together beautifully.

Now, it’s time to stir in the seasonings: salt, pepper, paprika, garlic salt, and a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Add the chicken and parsley, then top everything with a generous amount of cheese. Cover with the lid again just until the cheese melts into gooey goodness. Remove the lid, and serve your dishware.

Tips For Making Cheesy Rice

When whipping up cheesy rice as part of your cheesy chicken and rice dish, the secret lies in layering flavors that thrill the palate. Begin with garlic, sautéed until golden, to set a fragrant base. As the aroma fills your kitchen, add a sprinkle of black pepper and chili powder for a warmth that resonates throughout the dish. Stir in queso for that creamy texture, melting it slowly to avoid clumps. For a punchy kick, a pinch of cayenne works wonders, and for those who favor a bit of zest, diced jalapeños provide a bright, peppery pop. This combination ensures every forkful of cheesy rice is as comforting as it is bold.

How To Serve Chicken and Rice

In my kitchen, cheesy chicken and rice always come out best when simmered in a skillet; this method ensures the rice is perfectly cooked and the flavors meld beautifully. When it’s time to serve, I bring the skillet to the table. Adding a spoonful of White Queso on top gives it a creamy texture, and sprinkling fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and flavor. For fun and variety, I like to provide flour tortillas, tortilla chips, taco sauce, and fresh Pico de Gallo on the side, turning the dish into a delightful interactive meal where everyone can customize their plate. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience.

Can I Freeze Cheesy Chicken and Rice?

Absolutely! Freezing your cooked chicken and rice is safe and incredibly convenient for meal planning. Once you have prepared your cheesy chicken and rice dish, allow it to cool before you place it in the fridge to chill. For optimal freshness, ensure it’s stored properly in airtight containers. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy it again. To serve, reheat the dish to a safe temperature of 165 degrees F. You can use your preferred heating method, whether in the oven or a quick zap in the microwave. This method retains the dish’s texture and flavor, making your meal prep efficient and delicious.

How many calories are in cheesy chicken rice and broccoli?

The calorie content in a cheesy chicken rice and broccoli dish can vary depending on the recipe and portion sizes. However, a typical e of about one cup (around 200 grams) might contain approximately 300 to 400 calories. This includes the calories from the chicken, rice, cheese, broccoli, and any oils or butter used in cooking.

Consider the specific amounts and types of ingredients used in your particular recipe for a more precise count.

How much protein is in chicken, cheese, and rice?

Here’s a detailed look at the protein content in chicken, cheese, and rice:

1.      Chicken: Chicken is a high-protein food, trendy for its lean cuts. A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of cooked, skinless chicken breast contains about 31 grams of protein. This makes it one of the best sources of high-quality protein.

2.      Cheese: The protein content in cheese varies depending on the type. For example:

·         Cheddar cheese contains about 7 grams of protein per ounce (28 grams).

·         Mozzarella cheese offers around 6.3 grams of protein per ounce (28 grams).

·         Parmesan cheese, being more concentrated, provides about 10 grams of protein per ounce (28 grams).

3.      Rice: Rice generally has a lower protein content than animal-based products.

·         A cup of cooked white rice (about 158 grams) contains around 4 grams of protein.

·         Brown rice, which is slightly higher in protein, provides about 5 grams per cooked cup (about 195 grams).

How much chicken and rice should I be eating?

The amount of chicken and rice you should eat depends on several factors, including your overall dietary needs, calorie requirements, activity level, and health goals. Here are some general guidelines to consider:

Chicken

·         Portion Size: A typical portion size for chicken is about 3-4 ounces (85-113 grams) per serving. This amount can provide a substantial portion of your daily protein needs without being overly caloric.

·         Frequency: Depending on your protein requirements and dietary preferences, you might include chicken in your meals 1-2 times daily. It’s also important to vary your protein sources throughout the week to include fish, plant-based proteins, and other meats for a balanced diet.

Rice

·         Portion Size: A standard serving size of cooked rice is about 1/2 cup (around 100 grams), which offers a good balance of carbohydrates. You might adjust this portion size up or down depending on your total calorie intake.

·         Frequency: Rice can be a daily staple in a balanced diet, especially if it is balanced with adequate vegetables and protein sources.

What nutrients do chicken and rice have?

Chicken and rice each offer a range of nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutrients found in both:

Chicken

Chicken, mainly when eaten without the skin, is a lean source of low-fat protein. Here are the critical nutrients found in chicken:

·         Protein: High-quality, complete protein with all essential amino acids, vital for muscle repair, growth, and overall health.

·         Vitamins: Rich in B vitamins, particularly niacin (B3), vitamin B6, and vitamin B12, are essential for energy production and maintaining healthy blood cells and nerves.

·         Minerals: Contains phosphorus, selenium, and smaller amounts of iron, zinc, and potassium. Selenium is an antioxidant that helps to protect body cells from damage.

Rice

Rice is a staple carbohydrate that provides energy primarily through starch. It also includes several other nutrients, exceptionally if you choose whole-grain varieties like brown rice:

·         Carbohydrates: Primarily provide starch, an energy source for the body. Brown rice also contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and can help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

·         Proteins: Contains a small amount of protein, but it is not a complete protein as it lacks some essential amino acids.

·         Vitamins: Brown rice is a good source of B vitamins, including thiamine (B1), niacin (B3), and pyridoxine (B6), which are essential for metabolism and energy production.

·         Minerals: Provides minerals such as manganese, which is essential for enzyme function and bone development, and magnesium, which is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. White rice is often fortified with iron and some B vitamins.