Chicken and Rice with Gravy: A Comforting Classic
Chicken and Rice with Gravy is a timeless classic that has graced family dinner tables for generations. This beloved dish is a symphony of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, velvety gravy that just melts in your mouth. Whether you’re craving a cozy, home-cooked meal or looking to impress your loved ones, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
What makes this Chicken and Rice with Gravy so special? It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, with a preparation process that’s surprisingly easy and straightforward. Get ready to dive into a comforting, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
This Chicken and Rice with Gravy recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for a reason. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, the combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and rich gravy is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
What really sets this recipe apart is the texture contrast. The juicy, perfectly cooked chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy, velvety gravy and the light, fluffy rice. It’s a harmony of flavors and textures that will have your taste buds singing with joy. And the best part? This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
But the real kicker? This Chicken and Rice with Gravy recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to suit your dietary needs, making it a great option for families with diverse preferences. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal, so you can prep it in advance and enjoy a hassle-free dinner whenever you need it.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Chicken and Rice with Gravy ❓
• 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
The beauty of this Chicken and Rice with Gravy is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a savory, creamy gravy creates the classic comfort food flavor profile that has made this recipe a perennial favorite.
📝 How to Make Chicken and Rice with Gravy Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear them for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown.
• Step 3: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat it in the remaining butter and juices.
• Step 4: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven.
• Step 5: Bake the rice for 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed, and the rice is tender.
• Step 6: Remove the skillet from the oven and place the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice. Cover the skillet and return it to the oven for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Step 7: Transfer the cooked chicken and rice to a serving platter, and let it rest for 5 minutes.
• Step 8: In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour and 2 tablespoons of the cooking liquid from the skillet to make a roux. Gradually whisk in the remaining cooking liquid to create a smooth, lump-free gravy. Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your desired consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
• Step 9: Serve the Chicken and Rice with the warm, homemade gravy on the side, or drizzle it over the top. Enjoy your comforting, flavorful meal!
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
• Total time: 60-65 minutes
Compared to traditional chicken and rice casseroles, which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Chicken and Rice with Gravy recipe saves you over 15% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors and a more visually appealing presentation.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
These Chicken and Rice with Gravy provide approximately 70% of your daily protein requirements and 20% of your daily carbohydrate needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Replace the white rice with cauliflower rice or riced broccoli for a low-carb alternative.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Make the gravy with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of dairy.
• Added protein: Mix in cooked lentils or chickpeas to the rice for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Sauté onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms to add to the rice mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Chicken and Rice with Gravy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a fresh garden salad for a complete, well-balanced meal.
• Complement the dish with a crusty loaf of garlic bread or warm dinner rolls.
• For a family-style meal, serve the Chicken and Rice with Gravy alongside mashed potatoes or a creamy, cheesy cauliflower casserole.
• Create a comforting platter with the Chicken and Rice, garlic roasted Brussels sprouts, and a glass of your favorite red wine.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Undercooking the rice: Make sure to bake the rice for the full recommended time to ensure it’s tender and fluffy. Undercooked rice can be crunchy and unappetizing.
• Lumpy gravy: Take the time to whisk the flour and cooking liquid together thoroughly to prevent any lumps from forming in the gravy. Patience and constant stirring are key to a smooth, velvety gravy.
• Forgetting to season: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Proper seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder is essential for bringing out the full flavor of the dish.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Make sure to use a large enough skillet or Dutch oven to accommodate the chicken, rice, and broth without overcrowding. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steam buildup.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Chicken and Rice with Gravy retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the recipe up to the point of baking, then transfer the raw chicken and rice mixture to a freezer-safe baking dish. Cover and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
• Freezing baked: Allow the cooked Chicken and Rice to cool completely, then portion it into individual servings and wrap tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
• Reheating: To reheat the Chicken and Rice, place the desired portion in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. For the gravy, reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired consistency.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this Chicken and Rice with Gravy ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the entire dish, including the gravy, up to 4 days in advance. Simply store the cooked Chicken and Rice and the gravy separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the Chicken and Rice in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, and reheat the gravy on the stovetop until hot and pourable.
Can I substitute a different type of rice?
Absolutely! While long-grain white rice is the traditional choice, you can use a variety of other rice types with great results. Brown rice, basmati rice, or even wild rice would all work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly based on the rice variety you choose.
How can I make this Chicken and Rice with Gravy recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative, and use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk in place of dairy milk or cream for the gravy. These substitutions will give you a delicious, creamy gravy without the dairy.
What can I do if my gravy turns out too thin or too thick?
If your gravy is too thin, simply whisk in a bit more flour, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If the gravy is too thick, gradually whisk in a bit more broth or milk to thin it out. The key is to adjust the flour-to-liquid ratio to get the perfect, velvety texture.
Can I add any extra ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! This Chicken and Rice with Gravy recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized. Try adding sautéed mushrooms, diced onions, or frozen peas to the rice mixture. You can also experiment with different herb and spice combinations, such as rosemary, sage, or paprika, to create your own unique spin on the classic dish.
Conclusion
These Chicken and Rice with Gravy represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a cozy, family-style dinner or a special occasion meal, they’re sure to impress with their tender, juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and rich, velvety gravy. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Chicken and Rice with Gravy demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the cooking process. So, why not give this comforting classic a try and experience the joy of a truly satisfying, homemade meal? Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you.
