Chicken and Rice Sauce Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Comfort Meal
If you’re looking for a satisfying, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish, look no further than this chicken and rice sauce recipe. This comforting meal combines tender chicken with rice and a rich, savory sauce, making it a perfect dinner option for busy families or anyone craving a home-cooked meal. In this blog, we will walk you through the steps to create a delicious chicken and rice sauce dish, answer common questions, and provide useful tips on variations of this classic meal. Let’s get cooking!
What is Chicken and Rice Sauce?
Chicken and rice sauce is a delightful and hearty dish that combines chicken and rice with a rich, flavorful sauce. The sauce typically includes ingredients like cream, broth, herbs, and seasonings, providing the perfect balance of savory and creamy goodness. This dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit your tastes, whether you prefer a lighter, healthier sauce or a rich, indulgent version. It’s the perfect comfort food that can be prepared quickly and easily, making it a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Table of Contents
Tools for Preparing Chicken and Rice Sauce Recipe:
- Large Skillet or Pan
- To cook the chicken and sauté the ingredients for the sauce.
- Saucepan
- For cooking the rice. A medium or large saucepan works best.
- Cooking Spoon or Tongs
- To flip and stir the chicken while cooking.
- Knife
- For slicing the chicken breast and chopping any vegetables or garnishes.
- Cutting Board
- A sturdy surface for prepping the chicken and vegetables.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- To measure out ingredients for the sauce, rice, and seasonings accurately.
- Meat Thermometer
- To check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through (165°F or 74°C).
- Serving Platter or Plate
- To plate the chicken and rice sauce before serving.
- Lid for the Rice
- If you’re cooking rice in a pot, a lid will help to steam it perfectly.
- Whisk
- For mixing the sauce ingredients and ensuring it becomes smooth and creamy.
These tools will help streamline the process and ensure you have a delicious Chicken and Rice Sauce meal.
Chicken and Rice Sauce Recipe
Let’s dive into the ingredients, directions, and nutrition facts for this delicious dish!
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Yield | 4 servings |
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Rub the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavor. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken breasts. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is thoroughly cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir the rice into the skillet, ensuring it is well-coated with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the rice simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
While the rice is cooking, make the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Rice, and Sauce
Once the rice is cooked, return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them on top of the rice. Pour the sauce over the chicken and rice, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Cover the skillet and simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chicken to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Remove the skillet from the heat. Slice the chicken breasts and serve them over the rice with a generous drizzle of the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with your favorite vegetable side dish.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbs | 36g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
You’ll Also Love:
If you enjoy this chicken and rice sauce recipe, you might also love these other chicken dishes:
- Chicken and Rice Casserole: A creamy, comforting casserole made with chicken, rice, and a rich sauce.
- Chicken Stir Fry: A quick and healthy chicken stir fry with vegetables and a savory soy-based sauce.
- Baked Chicken Breasts: Simple and juicy baked chicken breasts, perfect for pairing with your favorite sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it takes longer to cook. You may need to adjust the cooking time and add extra liquid to ensure the rice cooks through.
2. Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe, and they tend to be more flavorful and juicy compared to chicken breasts.
3. How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this dish healthier, you can use low-fat cream or swap it with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk. You can also use cauliflower rice or quinoa as a lower-carb option.
4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this chicken and rice sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the chicken, rice, and sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can warm it up again in the microwave or heat it on the stove before serving.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow the chicken and rice to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up in the microwave or on the stove.
Conclusion
This chicken and rice sauce recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pan dish that’s packed with protein and rich, savory flavors. No matter if you’re preparing a hearty family dinner or getting meals ready for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to delight your taste buds. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a meal the whole family will love. So give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations on Instagram with the hashtag #BeesRecipes!