Chicken Vegetable Rice
A hearty chicken and vegetable rice skillet packed with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and carrots, perfect for a quick, flavorful family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat margarine in a large deep skillet.
- Cook chicken until browned.
- Add broccoli and carrots, cook until tender-crisp.
- Add onion and green pepper.
- Stir in cream of celery soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Heat to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in rice, cover, and remove from heat.
- Let stand for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice or your favorite seasoning blend before cooking. You can substitute the frozen broccoli with fresh broccoli or another vegetable like snap peas. If you prefer a creamier texture, add more milk or use a different cream soup, such as cream of mushroom. This dish is versatile and can adapt to various American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Vegetable Rice alongside a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread for a well-rounded meal. You can also pair it with a side of Holiday And Party Sweet Potatoes for a delightful contrast in flavors. For a vegetarian option, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, making it a hearty plant-based dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Vegetable Rice contains roughly 1126 calories, with 14g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (160% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1698mg per serving (74% 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 quick cooking rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly, allowing the dish to simmer until the brown rice is tender.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the vegetables. For a smoky flavor, try adding chipotle powder, which pairs nicely with the cream of celery soup.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them separately. Combine everything and cook just before serving. This method can save time during busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
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).