Orange Chicken and Rice Casserole 🍊🍗
Overview:
Indulge in the delightful fusion of citrusy zest and tender chicken with our Orange Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe. Perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence, this dish combines the convenience of a one-dish meal with the irresistible flavors that will have your family asking for seconds. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups of diced chicken breast
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons of grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 2 cups of frozen carrots
- 2 cups of orange juice
- 1 packet of rice mix (flavoring envelope separated)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 98.2
- Fat: 4.3g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Cholesterol: 10.2mg
- Sodium: 57.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 14.6g
- Fiber: 1.7g
- Sugar: 10.7g
- Protein: 1.2g
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. While the butter is melting, separate the flavoring envelope from the rice mix. Once the butter is melted, add the rice mix to the skillet, stirring occasionally until the rice is lightly browned. This will infuse the rice with a rich, nutty flavor. |
| 2 | Next, pour in the orange juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and the flavoring envelope from the rice mix. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. This step will infuse the rice with the vibrant flavors of orange, garlic, and ginger, creating a tantalizing base for our casserole. |
| 3 | Once the rice is tender, it’s time to add the star ingredients: diced chicken breast and frozen carrots. Gently stir them into the rice mixture, ensuring that they are evenly distributed. Allow the casserole to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the carrots are heated through. This step will infuse the chicken and carrots with the aromatic flavors of the orange-infused rice, creating a harmonious blend of savory and citrusy notes. |
| 4 | Once the chicken is cooked through and the carrots are tender, your Orange Chicken and Rice Casserole is ready to serve! Spoon generous portions onto plates or into bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this comforting and satisfying dish. |
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this Orange Chicken and Rice Casserole with a simple side salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
- For an extra burst of citrus flavor, garnish each serving with a wedge of fresh orange and a sprinkle of orange zest.
- Serve alongside steamed broccoli or green beans for a complete and nutritious meal that the whole family will love.
Final Thoughts:
With its vibrant citrus flavor, tender chicken, and hearty rice, this Orange Chicken and Rice Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish strikes the perfect balance between convenience and flavor. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to delight your taste buds with this deliciously satisfying casserole. Enjoy! 🍊🍗
