Spanish Chicken and Rice

Name: Spanish Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Spanish Cuisine
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users

Cuisine

Spanish Cuisine

Servings

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

35 minutes

Calories

320

This savory Spanish Chicken and Rice dish combines tender chicken breasts with aromatic rice infused with the flavors of bell peppers, tomatoes, and fragrant spices.

It's a comforting one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma make it a feast for the senses, while the combination of protein-rich chicken and hearty rice ensures it's as satisfying as it is delicious.

Whether you're a fan of Spanish cuisine or simply looking for a flavorful dinner option, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

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Directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
Add diced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until softened.
Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, and cumin. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture.
Cover and simmer over low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
per serving: Calories; 320

Amount/Serving % Daily Value

Fat: 9 grams; 12%
Saturated Fat: 2 grams; 10%
Cholesterol: 80 milligrams; 27%
Sodium: 580 milligrams; 25%
Carbs: 33 grams; 12%
Protein: 26 grams
Sugar: 3 grams
Fiber: 2 grams; 7%

10 Tips to keep in mind when cooking Spanish Chicken

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quicker cooking.
Opt for long-grain white rice for the best texture.
Adjust the level of smoked paprika according to your preference for spiciness.
Feel free to add additional vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition.
For added richness, stir in a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle with grated cheese before serving.
Make sure to season the chicken well before cooking to enhance its flavor.
Use a skillet with a tight-fitting lid to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

Serving suggestions

Spanish Chicken and Rice can be served as a standalone meal, but here are some suggestions to complement it:

Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Green Salad: Pair with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Aioli: Dip bread or chicken pieces in homemade garlic aioli for an extra burst of flavor.
Spanish Tapas: Serve alongside a selection of Spanish tapas such as olives, cheese, and cured meats for a complete meal experience.
Grilled Vegetables: Accompany with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and asparagus for a healthy side dish.
Sangria: Pair with a glass of homemade sangria for a festive touch to your meal.
Gazpacho: Start the meal with a cold bowl of gazpacho soup for a refreshing appetizer.
Churros: End the meal on a sweet note with crispy churros served with chocolate dipping sauce.
Spanish Rice Pudding: Finish with a traditional Spanish dessert like creamy rice pudding flavored with cinnamon and vanilla.
Fruit Salad: Serve with a vibrant fruit salad featuring fresh seasonal fruits for a light and refreshing dessert option.

FAQ'S

Q: Can I make Spanish Chicken and Rice ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but keep in mind that brown rice may require a longer cooking time and slightly more liquid.

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken pieces instead of chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Bone-in chicken pieces will add extra flavor to the dish, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your taste by varying the amount of smoked paprika used. Start with a smaller amount and add more if desired.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Simply chop fresh tomatoes and add them to the skillet along with the other ingredients.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables or beans for protein.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, Spanish Chicken and Rice freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I use other spices besides cumin and oregano?
A: Certainly! Feel free to experiment with different spices like chili powder, turmeric, or saffron to customize the flavor to your preference.

Q: How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the skillet?
A: Make sure to stir the rice occasionally while cooking and add a splash of water if needed to prevent it from sticking.

Q: Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by adjusting the cooking times and liquid ratios. Brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables before transferring everything to the slow cooker to cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

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Spanish Chicken and Rice