Orange Ginger Chicken and Rice Recipe
Embark on a delightful culinary journey with this Orange Ginger Chicken and Rice recipe, which promises not only to satisfy your taste buds but also to contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Inspired by the zest of fresh ginger and the sweet tang of orange juice, this dish is designed to be both nutritious and flavorful. Using jasmine rice instead of the traditional brown rice adds an aromatic touch, making this meal an enticing option for any dinner table. With a total cooking time of just one hour, including a quick prep, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend dinner with family or friends.
Recipe Overview
| Recipe Category | Keywords | Cook Time | Prep Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | Chicken, Poultry, Rice, Meat, Asian, Healthy, < 60 Mins, Oven, Easy, Inexpensive | 45 minutes | 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4 | 1 |
Description
This recipe combines the tender juiciness of boneless skinless chicken breasts with a vibrant rice mixture, enhanced by aromatic spices and fresh herbs. The light sweetness from orange juice and the warmth of ginger come together to create a comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and delightful to eat.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 259.9 |
| Total Fat | 2.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 65.8 mg |
| Sodium | 76.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 29 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 g |
| Sugars | 3.4 g |
| Protein | 28.9 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion | 1/2 |
| Cooked jasmine rice | 1 cup |
| Fresh ginger (grated) | 2 tablespoons |
| Dried parsley | 3 teaspoons |
| Dried thyme | 2 teaspoons |
| Boneless skinless chicken breasts | 4 pieces |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Orange juice | 1/4 cup |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and develop a nice texture.
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Cook the Onion: In a small saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of orange juice over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, stirring frequently to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking.
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Combine Ingredients: Once the onion is tender, add the cooked jasmine rice, freshly grated ginger, dried parsley, and dried thyme to the saucepan. Mix everything thoroughly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Take an 8x8x2 inch square baking dish and spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticking during the baking process.
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Layer the Rice Mixture: Spoon the aromatic rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to create a solid base for the chicken.
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Add the Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts directly over the rice mixture, ensuring they are evenly spaced. This allows the juices to permeate the rice during cooking.
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Add Remaining Orange Juice: Pour the remaining orange juice over the rice and chicken, ensuring that it covers the ingredients well. This will add moisture and flavor to the dish.
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Season with Cinnamon: Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top of the dish, providing a warm and inviting aroma that complements the chicken and rice.
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Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap the steam inside, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to develop.
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Finish Cooking: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the cover and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle. Serve your Orange Ginger Chicken and Rice hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired, and enjoy the vibrant flavors that make this dish a delightful addition to your meal rotation.
This easy yet sophisticated dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Orange Ginger Chicken and Rice recipe will surely be a hit!
