This one-pan chicken spinach and rice recipe is a delicious and healthy weeknight meal that's easy to prepare and packed with flavor. It's perfect for busy individuals or families looking for a satisfying and nutritious dinner option. This recipe combines tender chicken, wilted spinach, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices for a complete meal in one pan, minimizing cleanup time!
What are the ingredients for chicken spinach and rice?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You'll need readily available ingredients, most likely already in your pantry:
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. You can also use thighs for a richer flavor.
- Rice: 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option, but adjust cooking time accordingly).
- Spinach: 10 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped. Frozen spinach works well too; just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.
- Chicken Broth: 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth. This provides the liquid for cooking the rice.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, chopped. Adds a savory base to the dish.
- Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced. Enhances the flavor profile.
- Spices: Salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and garlic powder to taste. Feel free to experiment with other spices like oregano or turmeric.
- Optional additions: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a cheesy note. Chopped sun-dried tomatoes or Kalamata olives add Mediterranean flair.
How long does it take to make chicken spinach and rice?
This recipe takes approximately 35-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and efficient meal solution.
How many calories are in chicken spinach and rice?
The calorie count varies based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes. However, a serving of this dish typically falls within a moderate calorie range, making it a reasonably healthy option. For a precise calorie calculation, you can use a nutrition calculator website, inputting your specific ingredients and quantities.
Is chicken spinach and rice healthy?
Yes, this recipe can be considered a healthy meal. Chicken is a lean protein source, spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, and rice provides carbohydrates for energy. The use of fresh ingredients and minimal added fats contributes to its nutritional value. Using brown rice further boosts the fiber content.
How do I make chicken spinach and rice?
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil) in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the chicken.
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Add rice and broth: Stir in the rice, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the liquid covers the rice and chicken.
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Simmer and bake (optional): Bring the mixture to a simmer on the stovetop, then cover the skillet and transfer it to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Alternatively, you can simmer uncovered on the stovetop for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
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Stir in spinach: Remove the skillet from the oven (or from the stovetop) and gently stir in the chopped spinach. Cover and let it wilt for a few minutes.
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Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve immediately. Garnish with lemon juice and Parmesan cheese (optional).
What to serve with chicken spinach and rice?
This dish stands well on its own, but you can complement it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for dipping.
This recipe is a versatile base; feel free to customize it to your liking. Experiment with different vegetables, spices, and herbs to create your own unique and delicious chicken spinach and rice masterpiece!
