Oven-baked rice with roast chicken

Oven Rice with Roast Chicken - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

In a busy world where quick meals are often preferred, there are moments when we long to return to our roots, to cooking with fresh ingredients and dishes that remind us of the warmth and comfort of home. Today, I will share with you a simple and flavorful recipe for oven rice with roast chicken that will bring joy and aroma to your table.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

A Brief Story About the Recipe
This recipe combines tradition with innovation. Cooking rice in the oven is a method that allows the flavors to blend perfectly, resulting in a dish that is not only tasty but also comforting. Using a free-range chicken, which has more tender and flavorful meat, each bite will be a true feast for the senses.

Ingredients:

- 1 chicken breast cut into four
- 2 chicken thighs cut in half
- 2 cups of rice (approximately 400 g)
- 8 cups of chicken broth (approximately 2 liters)
- 3 teaspoons of "taste secret" (a spice blend that adds extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for greasing (or other preferred oil)

Preparing the Oven Rice:

1. Boiling the meat: Start by placing the chicken breast and thighs in a large pot of water. Add a pinch of salt and let it boil for 20 minutes. This step will not only cook the meat but also produce a flavorful broth.

2. Separating the meat: Once the meat is boiled, remove the pieces from the water and let them cool slightly. You can keep the broth for the next step, as it will be the base for the rice.

3. Preparing the rice: In a heat-resistant dish, add the 2 cups of rice. Rinse the rice under cold running water to remove excess starch, which will prevent it from sticking during baking.

4. Adding the broth: Pour the 8 cups of broth in which the chicken was boiled over the rice. This will infuse the rice with delicious flavors. Add 3 teaspoons of "taste secret" and mix well.

5. Baking the rice: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Bake for 30 minutes. It is important to stir the rice every 10 minutes to ensure it cooks evenly and does not stick.

Preparing the Roast Chicken:

6. Seasoning the meat: Meanwhile, prepare the chicken meat. Cut the boiled pieces into smaller sizes if you prefer. Place them in another heat-resistant dish. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and a little "taste secret". Add olive oil to give them a richer flavor.

7. Browning the chicken: Place the dish with chicken in the oven and let it brown for about 20-25 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy.

Serving and Suggestions:

Once both the rice and chicken are ready, it’s time to assemble the plate. Place a generous portion of rice on the plate and add a few pieces of roasted chicken on top. You can serve this dish alongside pickled cucumbers or a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast. Additionally, a yogurt sauce with dill can add a note of freshness.

Useful Tips:

- For a healthier option: You can use brown rice instead of white rice. It will require an adjustment in cooking time and water quantity, but the result will be a nutritious and filling dish.

- For a more intense flavor: Add some dried herbs, such as basil or oregano, during the boiling of the rice.

- Variations: You can replace the chicken with turkey or vegetables for a vegetarian option, making sure to adjust the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use basmati or jasmine rice? Yes, but make sure to adjust the amount of water and cooking time, as these types of rice may require less water.

- Can it be prepared in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the rice and chicken a day ahead and reheat them before serving.

- Are there sauce recipes that pair well? A garlic tomato sauce or a soy sauce with ginger are excellent options that add a note of diversity to the dish.

Nutritional Benefits:
This dish is rich in protein due to the chicken, and the rice provides essential carbohydrates. Additionally, the chicken broth is a good source of fluids, contributing to the hydration of the body. By adding pickled vegetables or salad, you will add vitamins and fiber, making the meal more nutritionally balanced.

Conclusion:
Oven rice with roast chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Not only is it tasty, but it is also comforting, reminding us of warm meals at home. Enjoy your meal!