Creamy Chicken Chunks over Rice: Best Way to Cook Comfort Food
Introduction
Imagine coming home after a long day, craving a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Look no further than our Creamy Chicken Chunks over Rice recipe. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken pieces with a rich, velvety sauce, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. According to a recent survey by the National Chicken Council, 91% of consumers enjoy chicken dishes regularly, making this recipe a crowd-pleaser for families across the nation. Let’s dive into this comforting culinary experience that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Table of Contents
Why is it Perfect for You?
Our Creamy Chicken recipe is tailored to meet the needs of busy individuals and families alike. Here’s why it’s an ideal choice:
1. Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
2. Nutritious: Packed with protein and essential nutrients.
3. Versatile: Easy to customize with various vegetables or spices.
4. Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients without compromising on taste.
5. Comfort Food: Provides a warm, satisfying meal that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients List
For 4 servings, you’ll need:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 cups long-grain white rice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Time and Servings
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
Cook 2 cups of rice according to package instructions. This usually takes about 18-20 minutes.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken
Season chicken chunks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
3. Sauté Aromatics
Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce
Add chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Combine and Finish
Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve the Creamy Chicken Chunks over Rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 380mg |
Calories per Person
At 550 calories per serving, this meal provides a balanced energy source. It’s about 27.5% of the average daily calorie intake for adults (based on a 2000 calorie diet), making it a satisfying yet manageable meal option.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
1. Use brown rice instead of white for added fiber.
2. Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lower-fat option.
3. Add mixed vegetables to increase nutrient density.
4. Use skinless chicken thighs for a more flavorful, yet still lean, protein source.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your Creamy Chicken Chunks over Rice experience with these serving ideas:
1. Pair with a crisp green salad for added freshness.
2. Serve alongside steamed broccoli or asparagus.
3. Offer crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
4. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overcooking the chicken, resulting in dry meat.
2. Not seasoning adequately throughout the cooking process.
3. Allowing the cream sauce to boil, which can cause separation.
4. Rushing the simmering process, which is crucial for flavor development.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
1. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. For best results, store the chicken and sauce separately from the rice.
3. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to revive the sauce.
4. Freeze for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers.
FAQs
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. Consider adding a tablespoon of flour to thicken.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, when using gluten-free chicken broth.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding the cream in the last 30 minutes.
Q: How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
A: Try adding peas, carrots, or bell peppers during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
Our Creamy Chicken Chunks over Rice recipe offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and nutrition. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and easy preparation, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. The versatility of this dish allows for endless customization, ensuring it can cater to various tastes and dietary needs. By following our tips and tricks, you’ll create a memorable meal that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Don’t wait – treat yourself to this delightful Creamy Chicken dish tonight and discover why it’s becoming a favorite in kitchens across the country!
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Share your experience with us
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
Confused on picture
The cookies are tasty, but do you have the recipe for the actual cookies in your picture? These cookies are certainly not going to be that beautiful purple color. Thanks!
good for a nice dinner
nice
