Chicken Rice Pilaf
π Total Time: 45 minutes | π₯£ Servings: 6
Description:
This delightful Chicken Rice Pilaf recipe, handed down by my girlfriend over twenty years ago, has become a cherished favorite at our weekly church potluck gatherings. Its comforting flavors and ease of preparation make it a guaranteed hit every time!
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup orzo pasta
- 1/4 cup margarine
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 3 cups boiling water
- 3 chicken broth cubes
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Melt margarine in a casserole dish over medium heat. |
| 2 | Add the orzo pasta to the melted margarine, stirring continuously until it turns a rich, golden brown. This process infuses the orzo with a delicious nutty flavor. |
| 3 | Pour in the boiling water and crumble in the chicken broth cubes, stirring well to dissolve. This creates a savory base for the pilaf. |
| 4 | Add the long grain rice to the casserole dish, stirring gently to incorporate all the ingredients evenly. |
| 5 | Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil, and transfer it to the preheated oven. Allow the pilaf to cook undisturbed for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the rice to become tender. |
| 6 | After 30 minutes, remove the pilaf from the oven and fluff the rice with a fork. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. |
Tips:
- For a delightful variation, consider adding 1/2 cup of mixed vegetables, a can of mushrooms, or a small can of peas to the pilaf before baking. These additions introduce extra layers of flavor and texture to the dish.
- Feel free to unleash your creativity and experiment with different ingredients to personalize this recipe to your taste preferences. From diced bell peppers to cooked chicken or shrimp, the possibilities are endless!
- To make this recipe even more budget-friendly, use homemade chicken broth or opt for low-sodium broth alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving for a quick and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 206.5
- Fat: 7.9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 138.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0.6g
- Sugar: 0.2g
- Protein: 3.2g
Tags:
Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Potluck, < 60 Mins, Oven, Easy, Inexpensive
Recipe Notes:
This Chicken Rice Pilaf recipe holds a special place in my heart, not only for its delicious taste but also for the memories it evokes of sharing meals with loved ones. Its simplicity and versatility make it a perfect addition to any gathering, whether it’s a potluck dinner or a cozy family meal at home. So go ahead, give it a try, and savor the warmth and comfort it brings to your table! π²
