Easy Chicken And Rice
A hearty and flavorful dish combining tender boiled chicken, savory rice mix, and sweet corn. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it offers comforting tastes with minimal effort. Easy to customize with additional sides like applesauce and biscuits for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare Rice-A-Roni according to package directions, adding a handful of brown rice if desired to make it more substantial.
- While the rice is cooking, skin and debone the chicken breasts, then cut the chicken into small pieces.
- Once the rice is soft and dry, spread the cooked chicken over the top of the rice along with the drained can of kernel corn.
- Cover the dish with no heat for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Mix everything together and serve. Applesauce and biscuits are good accompaniments.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or herbs before cooking. You can also substitute the Rice-A-Roni with any other flavored rice mix or make your own using plain rice and seasonings. If you want to add more vegetables, diced bell peppers or peas work well in this dish. For a creamier texture, a splash of cream or sour cream can enhance the overall dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with applesauce and biscuits for a comforting meal. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad, like a Chef'S Salad, for a balanced plate. For a heartier option, consider adding a side of Omaha Potatoes to round out your dinner. The flavors complement each other well, making for a satisfying dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and rice mixture in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. You can also add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Chicken And Rice contains roughly 122 calories, with 9g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, it's best to thaw them first for even cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or using the defrost setting on your microwave. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the rice.
What can I substitute for the kernel corn?
If you don't have kernel corn, you can use other vegetables like diced carrots, peas, or green beans. These alternatives will still provide a nice texture and flavor. You can also opt for canned or frozen options, just be sure to drain any liquids before mixing them in.
How can I make the dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while cooking the chicken. You can also stir in some hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper into the Rice-A-Roni as it cooks. This will give your Easy Chicken And Rice a nice kick!
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).