Rice With Chicken Or Turkey And Cheese
A comforting rice dish featuring tender chicken or turkey, melted cheese, and savory broth, perfect for a quick family dinner or meal prep. Rich, satisfying, and easy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Measure fat into a pan and heat over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and brown slightly.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add uncooked rice, stir, and reduce heat to low.
- Cover the pan tightly and cook over low heat for 20 minutes.
- Add chicken or turkey and cheese to the rice mixture.
- Cook over very low heat until the cheese melts and the chicken heats through.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider sautéing garlic with the onions. You can substitute the chicken or turkey with cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you're looking for a lighter option, use brown rice instead of white, but remember to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Adding vegetables such as peas or bell peppers can enhance the dish, making it a heartier meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with Better Brussels Sprouts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness. It pairs nicely with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider offering a simple Chicken Tomato Soup as a starter or a light dessert to complement the flavors. For a complete dinner, serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months, then thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice With Chicken Or Turkey And Cheese contains roughly 789 calories, with 19g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1853mg per serving (81% 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?
Yes, brown rice can be used, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so increase the broth and allow for 30-40 minutes of cooking time. Make sure to check for doneness before adding the chicken and cheese.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice due to its melting properties and flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella. For a sharper taste, consider using a blend of cheeses, which can add depth to the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding the chicken and cheese just before serving to ensure everything is hot and the cheese melts smoothly.
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).