Norbert'S Favorite Orange Rice And Chicken
A flavorful chicken and rice dish with orange juice, pecans, and aromatic seasonings, perfect for a comforting family dinner with a citrus-inspired twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine water, orange juice, onion, butter, pecans, and salt in a 2-quart shallow baking dish.
- Add rice and mix well.
- Coat chicken with Shake 'n Bake as directed on the package and arrange over the rice mixture.
- Bake at 400° for 45 to 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using low-sodium chicken broth instead of water. You can also substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred. To enhance the dish, add herbs like thyme or rosemary. If you want a spicier kick, incorporate some red pepper flakes to the rice mixture. Remember to taste and adjust the salt as needed prior to baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a fresh salad for a balanced meal, such as the No Bull Ranch Salad, or pair with steamed vegetables for added nutrition. This orange rice and chicken also goes well with a light citrus vinaigrette. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside crusty bread or a simple fruit compote for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Norbert'S Favorite Orange Rice And Chicken contains roughly 34 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 528mg per serving (23% 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 white rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so increase the baking time to about 60-70 minutes and ensure there's enough liquid to cook the rice thoroughly.
What can I substitute for orange juice if I don't have any?
If you don't have orange juice, you can use a combination of lemon juice and a bit of honey or sugar to mimic the sweetness and acidity of orange juice. Alternatively, pineapple juice can also work well for a different flavor profile.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs, and reduce the amount of butter. You can also add more vegetables to the rice mixture, such as bell peppers or peas, to increase the nutritional value without compromising on flavor.
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).