Layered rice

Layered rice - a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 min
Cooking time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Servings: 4

Overview

Layered rice is a recipe that harmoniously combines the flavors of chicken, vegetables, and rice, creating a savory dish perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also offers an opportunity to experiment with various ingredients, bringing your personality and preferences to the plate. In addition to being an accessible and quick recipe, layered rice can be adapted according to the season and available ingredients. Let’s begin the culinary adventure!

Necessary ingredients

- 1 boneless chicken breast (approximately 300-400 g)
- 1 cup of rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 2 bell peppers (or other seasonal vegetables)
- 1 onion
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 cup of dry white wine
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt to taste

Details about the ingredients

- Chicken breast: Choose a fresh, quality chicken breast that will add juiciness to the dish. If you prefer, you can substitute chicken breast with turkey or even pork, depending on your preferences.
- Rice: Long-grain rice is ideal as it remains fluffy and well-cooked, but you can experiment with basmati rice or even brown rice if you want a healthier option.
- Bell peppers: These sweet peppers add a vibrant taste and beautiful color to the dish. If you don’t have bell peppers, you can use red or yellow peppers, depending on your preferences.
- Dill: This herb adds a touch of freshness and flavor. You can also try other herbs like parsley or basil.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Cooking the meat: Start by cutting the chicken breast into suitable pieces. Place it in a pot with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil and let the meat simmer until fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes. It is important to skim the water to remove impurities.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: Meanwhile, in a skillet, add a tablespoon of butter and let it heat up. Add the cleaned and finely chopped onion, as well as the diced bell pepper. Sprinkle a little salt to help release the juices from the vegetables. Sauté them over medium heat for 7-8 minutes until they become tender and slightly caramelized. The flavors will begin to meld, and you will feel the atmosphere in the kitchen become more pleasant.

3. Cooking the rice: In the water where you boiled the meat, add the rice, ensuring to maintain a ratio of 3 parts water to 1 part rice. Add the sautéed onion and bell pepper mixture. Check the salt and let the rice boil according to the package instructions, usually 15-20 minutes, until it becomes fluffy and well-cooked.

4. Layering: Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking. Start by adding an even layer of rice, pressing down gently with a spoon to level it. Follow with a generous layer of chicken, then a layer of finely chopped fresh dill. Continue alternating layers: another layer of rice, chicken, dill, and finish with a final layer of rice. Arrange some slices of bell pepper and a few sprigs of dill on top for an attractive look. Add a small cube of butter on top, which will melt and add a rich flavor to the dish.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (low heat). Gently pour the white wine over the mixture in the dish and bake for about 20 minutes. This step will help enhance the flavors and achieve a delicious taste. You will notice how the dish becomes golden and appetizing.

6. Serving: Layered rice is served warm, directly from the oven. It pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables. You can drizzle with a little lemon juice for a fresher taste. This recipe is not only delicious but also very filling, making it ideal for enjoying at a family meal.

Useful tips

- You can add additional vegetables to the vegetable mix, such as grated carrots or diced zucchini, for extra nutrients and varied texture.
- Instead of white wine, you can use vegetable or chicken broth to enhance the flavor.
- If you want to keep the dish healthier, you can reduce the amount of butter or use olive oil instead.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This layered rice recipe has approximately 450 kcal per serving, being a balanced meal that offers protein from meat, carbohydrates from rice, and vitamins from vegetables. Chicken meat is an excellent source of lean protein, while vegetables provide fiber and essential nutrients. A serving of dill also adds antioxidants and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use brown rice? Yes, brown rice is a healthier option, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package.

2. What other types of meat can I use? You can use turkey, pork, or even fish, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I store leftovers? Layered rice stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven.

4. What can I pair this dish with? It pairs perfectly with a summer salad or grilled vegetables. Additionally, a glass of chilled white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

This layered rice recipe is not just a simple dish, but an invitation to explore flavors and enjoy every bite. With each layer, you will discover a unique combination of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds. I encourage you to experiment and put your personal touch on this classic recipe, making it truly unique. Bon appétit!