Teri Lee'S Light & Zesty Chicken & Rice
A light and zesty chicken and rice dish featuring tender baked chicken breasts, flavorful Italian dressing, and colorful vegetables, perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in an 8 x 12-inch baking dish.
- Pour Italian salad dressing over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Remove chicken from the dish and set aside.
- Add rice, frozen broccoli and carrots, and half of the fried onions to the dish.
- Place the cooked chicken on top of the rice and vegetables.
- Combine chicken bouillon and Italian seasoning; pour over the chicken and rice.
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
- Sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top and bake for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. You can also substitute the Italian dressing with a homemade vinaigrette if desired. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked rice and reduce the baking time slightly. Adding a sprinkle of lemon juice before serving can enhance the dish's zesty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of Broccoli-Cauliflower Tossed Salad for a refreshing crunch. You can also serve it with a light, citrusy dressing to complement the flavors. A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the meal beautifully. For a heartier option, consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored 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 on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Teri Lee'S Light & Zesty Chicken & Rice contains roughly 633 calories, with 11g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2614mg per serving (114% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice has a longer cooking time. You may need to adjust the baking time and the amount of chicken bouillon accordingly. Pre-cook the brown rice partially before adding it to the dish to ensure it cooks evenly with the other ingredients.
What can I substitute for the frozen broccoli and carrots?
You can use any frozen vegetables you prefer, such as mixed vegetables or green beans. Fresh vegetables can also be used, but you might need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are tender. Consider adding bell peppers or snap peas for added color and flavor.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is already dairy-free as it stands. Just ensure that the Italian dressing you use does not contain any dairy ingredients. You can also enhance the creaminess by adding a splash of coconut milk or dairy-free cream before baking if desired.
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).