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In this blog, we’ll walk through a foolproof recipe that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor.
Why This Chicken and Rice with Gravy Stands Out
What makes this dish so special is its ability to transform humble ingredients into a meal that’s both hearty and comforting. The chicken is seared to golden perfection, locking in flavor, while the rice absorbs all the goodness of the broth. The star, however, is the gravy, bringing everything together in a creamy, savory sauce that coats each bite.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
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| Chicken and Rice Gravy |
- 1 lb (about 4 pieces) chicken thighs or breasts, skin-on
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
For the Gravy:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth (or pan drippings for more flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
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| Chicken And Rice Gravy |
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Use a sufficient amount of salt and pepper to season the chicken.
- In a large Dutch oven or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Skin-side down, sear the chicken pieces for approximately five minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the chopped garlic and onion to the same skillet. They should become fragrant and transparent after about three minutes of sautéing.
- Cook for another 30 seconds after adding the thyme.
3. Cook the Rice
- Coat the rice with oil and seasonings by adding it to the skillet and toasting it for one minute.
- After adding the bay leaf, pour in the chicken broth.
- Place the chicken pieces back in the skillet, nestled into the rice.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
4. Make the Gravy
- Melt the butter in a separate pot over medium heat.
- In order to create a roux, add the flour and whisk constantly. Cook for approximately two minutes, or until golden and smelling nutty.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth (or pan drippings), whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Continue to simmer until the gravy thickens, about 3-4 minutes. To taste, add salt and pepper.
5. Serve
- Remove the chicken and rice from heat. Pour the gravy over the chicken and rice, or serve it on the side.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Valor nutricional
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving for Chicken and Rice with Gravy based on the recipe provided. This assumes the recipe serves 4 and includes standard nutritional values for each ingredient. The values may vary slightly depending on the specific brands and cuts of chicken used.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 470 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Total Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 90 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Sodium | 750 mg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
| Vitamin A | 8% DV |
| Vitamin C | 6% DV |
| Calcium | 4% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
Note:
- Calories mainly come from the chicken, olive oil, and rice.
- Protein is high due to the chicken and rice, making this a filling dish.
- Sodium levels can vary significantly depending on the chicken broth and seasoning. Opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Fat content is higher due to olive oil and chicken skin. Removing the skin can lower both calories and fat.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Rice with Gravy
- Use chicken thighs for extra flavor: Thighs are juicier than breasts, but you can use either based on your preference.
- Add vegetables for variety: Diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers add color and flavor to the rice.
- Get the gravy consistency right: Add a little more flour for a richer gravy. Add a little additional broth for a thinner gravy.
Variations to Try
- Creamy Mushroom Gravy: For a delicious, earthy flavor, add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy.
- Herbed Lemon Gravy: Mix in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped herbs like rosemary or dill for a zesty, aromatic finish.
- Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice: Season the chicken with Cajun spices and add a pinch of cayenne to the gravy for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
This chicken and rice with gravy recipe is a timeless dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can prepare a delicious, comforting meal any night of the week. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors in every bite!