As a matter of fact, I have a go-to recipe for a rainy day like today.
Stewy chicken and rice cooked in a creamy garlic sauce with a hint of lemon. It's a comforting one-pot meal that's easy to prepare and tastes divine.
Here's a rough overview of the recipe:
Ingredients required:
- 2 cups of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked rice (I use jasmine)
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed and minced
- 2 cups of cream or evaporated milk ( I sometimes use half milk half water to reduce the creaminess)
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder or two cubes
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons margarine or butter
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat and brown the chicken pieces evenly on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the minced garlic cloves and sauté briefly until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Stir in the rice, ensuring each grain is coated in buttery garlic goodness. Then, pour in the milk or cream, lemon juice, bouillon, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Layer the chicken pieces back into the pot, ensuring they are fully covered in liquid. If not, add some water to adjust.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender.
6. Give it a good stir, ensuring the rice at the bottom doesn't burn or stick to the pot. Replace the lid and let it cook for another 5 minutes.
7. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs and serve warm!
This recipe is forgiving and adaptable. You could add veggies like carrots or peas, or even throw in some spices like paprika or cayenne for an extra kick. It's a cozy, satisfying dish, perfect for days when you want a tasty, effortless meal.