Creole Chicken Dinner
A flavorful Creole chicken dish packed with smoky ham, tomatoes, and spices, served over tender rice. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or casual gathering, this comforting meal combines bold flavors and easy preparation for a satisfying experience.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken broth ⓘ
- 2 cups cut up chicken or turkey ⓘ
- 1 cup finely chopped smoked ham ⓘ
- 1/4 cup tomato paste ⓘ
- 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon red pepper ⓘ
- 1 small green pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, crushed ⓘ
- 1 can whole tomatoes, undrained ⓘ
- 1 can shrimp, rinsed and drained ⓘ
- 2 cups uncooked instant rice ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except rice in a 3-quart saucepan.
- Break up the whole tomatoes with a spoon or fork.
- Bring to a boil, then stir in the uncooked rice.
- Cover the saucepan and remove from heat.
- Let stand for 5 minutes or until all water is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper or omit it entirely. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey for a different twist or use a mix of proteins. For a heartier meal, add vegetables like zucchini or corn.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Creole Chicken Dinner with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the dish's richness. It pairs beautifully with **Shrimp Etouffee(Easy Microwave Recipe)** for a true taste of Creole cuisine. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top can add a nice touch of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, for about 1-2 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creole Chicken Dinner contains roughly 363 calories, with 28g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (267% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and potassium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1151mg per serving (50% 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?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust your broth and cooking method accordingly, following the package instructions for brown rice.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made in advance. Just portion it out into containers and reheat when ready. It’s ideal for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I add other proteins to this dish?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile; you can add shrimp, sausage, or even a mix of proteins. Just ensure they are cooked through and adjust cooking times as needed.
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).