"Tis The Season" Chicken
A flavorful baked chicken dish with long grain and wild rice, cranberries, almonds, and herbs, perfect for festive gatherings or comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Sprinkle the rice mixture into a buttered 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Spread the seasoning package evenly over the rice.
- Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the rice.
- Pour chicken broth over the chicken and rice.
- Dot with butter or margarine, then spoon cranberry sauce over the top.
- Bake uncovered for approximately 60 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds over the dish before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful dish, consider marinating the chicken in the soy sauce, lemon juice, and cranberry sauce before baking. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the almonds or substitute with sunflower seeds. Experiment with different rice blends or add vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition. This dish is a great way to use leftover chicken or turkey from holiday meals.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also serve it alongside mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a festive touch, consider serving it with cranberry sauce on the side. It's a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings or family dinners.
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 keep moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals until heated through, or reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Tis The Season" Chicken contains roughly 817 calories, with 57g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (114% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1528mg per serving (66% 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 the rice mix?
While you can use brown rice, the cooking time and liquid ratios will differ. Brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time, around 45-50 minutes. Consider partially cooking the brown rice before adding it to the dish to ensure it cooks through with the chicken.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure the rice mix is vegetarian-friendly. This will create a delicious plant-based version of the dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will ensure even cooking.
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).