Saucy Chicken And Rice
Creamy saucy chicken and rice dish featuring tender chicken, tomatoes, and melted Velveeta cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners with rich flavors and smooth texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute celery and chopped onion in margarine until tender.
- Blend in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Add chopped tomato, chopped chicken, cubed Velveeta cheese, and basil leaves to the mixture.
- Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Serve the saucy chicken mixture over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers while sautéing the vegetables. If you want a lower-fat option, you can substitute the margarine with olive oil and use a reduced-fat cheese instead of Velveeta. If fresh basil isn't available, dried basil can work in a pinch, just use half the amount. This dish also pairs well with Homemade Rice Pilaf for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the saucy chicken and rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can add a nice touch. This dish is also great for meal prep, as it holds up well in the fridge and can be easily reheated for quick lunches. Consider pairing it with a light white wine for a delightful touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover saucy chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave in intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saucy Chicken And Rice contains roughly 1409 calories, with 16g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 103g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1987mg per serving (86% 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 leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken is a great time-saver in this recipe. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the sauce. This not only speeds up the cooking process but also enhances the flavors as the chicken absorbs the sauce.
What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer not to use Velveeta, you can substitute it with a blend of cream cheese and cheddar for a similar creamy texture. Alternatively, a good melting cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda can work well, just be sure to adjust the amount according to taste.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables such as peas, corn, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the celery and onion to ensure they are cooked through before adding the rest of the ingredients.
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).