Creamy Chicken And Rice Skillet Dinner
A creamy chicken and rice skillet dish featuring tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for a quick, hearty family dinner with comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet.
- Add chicken and cook for 7 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add 1 3/4 cups water and the creamy mushroom and wild rice mix. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, turning chicken and stirring rice occasionally, until rice is almost tender.
- Add mixed vegetables. Increase heat and cook uncovered for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or herbs before cooking. You can substitute the mixed vegetables with any frozen variety you prefer, such as peas and carrots. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, try using cheddar or mozzarella for a different twist. This dish is versatile, so feel free to mix in extra ingredients like mushrooms or spinach.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy chicken and rice skillet dinner with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Joy'S Cheesy Chicken Soup for a comforting weeknight dinner. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in a covered dish for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep the rice moist. You can also reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Chicken And Rice Skillet Dinner contains roughly 90 calories, with 7g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (131% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 the rice mix?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the water and cooking duration according to the rice package instructions. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook, so be sure to check for doneness before adding the vegetables.
What can I add to make this dish spicier?
To give this dish a kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You could also sauté some diced jalapeños with the chicken or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper for an extra layer of heat. Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and rice mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stovetop and add the vegetables as instructed. 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).