This recipe delivers a hearty and healthy one-pan chicken spinach and rice dish, perfect for a weeknight meal. It's packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and customizable to your preferences. Let's dive into the delicious details!
What are the ingredients for Chicken Spinach and Rice?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You'll need pantry staples and fresh ingredients readily available at most grocery stores. Here's a basic ingredient list:
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. You can substitute with thighs for a richer flavor.
- Rice: 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option). Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking for optimal texture.
- Spinach: 10 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped. Frozen spinach works well too, just ensure it's thawed and squeezed dry before adding.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, chopped. Other onions like red or white will also work.
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves garlic, minced. Garlic powder can be used as a substitute, but fresh garlic adds a superior flavor.
- Broth: 2 ½ cups chicken broth. Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
- Seasoning: Salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, oregano. Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices based on your preferences. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Optional additions: Diced tomatoes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or other vegetables can enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
How long does it take to cook Chicken Spinach and Rice?
This one-pan wonder takes approximately 35-40 minutes to cook, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The cooking time will depend on the type of rice used; brown rice will require a slightly longer cooking time.
How many calories are in Chicken Spinach and Rice?
The calorie count varies depending on the ingredients and portion size. A serving of this dish generally contains between 300-400 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option compared to other comfort food meals.
What are some variations of Chicken Spinach and Rice?
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some variations to try:
- Creamy Chicken Spinach and Rice: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.
- Lemon Chicken Spinach and Rice: Add the zest and juice of one lemon for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Spicy Chicken Spinach and Rice: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for some heat.
- Chicken Spinach and Rice with Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or parmesan cheese over the dish during the last few minutes of cooking.
Can I make Chicken Spinach and Rice in a slow cooker?
Yes, absolutely! This recipe is easily adaptable for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Is Chicken Spinach and Rice healthy?
Yes, this dish can be a healthy and nutritious meal. It's a good source of protein from the chicken, fiber from the rice, and vitamins and minerals from the spinach. Using brown rice and lean chicken breast will further boost its nutritional value.
How to make Chicken Spinach and Rice (Step-by-step instructions):
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add the rice and seasonings: Stir in the rice, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the rice slightly.
- Add the broth: Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until wilted.
- Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Chicken Spinach and Rice! Remember to adjust seasonings to your taste preferences. This recipe is a fantastic base for culinary creativity, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect version.
