Chicken Rice Skillet Dinner
A hearty chicken and rice skillet featuring tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and creamy broccoli soup, perfect for a quick, satisfying family dinner or weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine and cook the chicken in a Dutch oven until tender.
- Add shredded carrots and cut green onions; cover and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Add cream of broccoli soup and milk; cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add instant rice and mix thoroughly.
- Remove the pot from the burner and let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture is absorbed by the rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice or herbs before cooking. If you don't have margarine, butter or olive oil can be used as substitutes. Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or bell peppers to enhance the dish. For a creamier texture, try using sour cream or cream cheese in place of milk. This recipe is perfect for using leftover chicken from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Rice Skillet Dinner pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed broccoli for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or a light pasta dish for a heartier option. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or serving with a side of your favorite hot sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Rice Skillet Dinner contains roughly 1594 calories, with 18g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (92% of the Daily Value), and potassium (62% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1419mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of instant rice?
While instant rice cooks quickly, brown rice will require a longer cooking time. If you prefer brown rice, cook it separately according to package instructions and then mix it in with the other ingredients once tender.
What can I substitute for cream of broccoli soup?
If you don't have cream of broccoli soup, you can use any cream soup, such as cream of chicken or cream of mushroom. Alternatively, you can make a simple white sauce and add cooked broccoli for a homemade version.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time. Cook it as directed, then cool completely before storing in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).