Rice with chicken and lemon

Chicken and Lemon Rice – An explosion of flavors and textures on your table

When it comes to comfort food, few recipes compare to a delicious chicken and lemon rice. It is a dish that combines simplicity and elegance, bringing to your table a harmony of flavors that will delight your senses. With a mix of tender rice, juicy chicken, and a fresh note of lemon, this dish quickly becomes a favorite choice for family meals or special occasions.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 10 fried chicken drumsticks
- 200 ml dry white wine
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1 medium onion
- 100 g butter
- 400 g rice (I recommend basmati or arborio rice for a perfect result)

Recipe History

This recipe has its roots in culinary traditions that emphasize the combination of fresh and simple ingredients, allowing flavors to shine. Chicken rice is a classic dish found in many cultures, each with its unique version. The addition of white wine and lemon provides an extra dimension, transforming an ordinary dish into a true feast for the taste buds.

Step-by-step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Chop the onion finely, squeeze the juice from the lemon, and grate the zest. This will add an intense and vibrant flavor to the dish. Rinse the rice in cold water to remove excess starch, which will prevent the grains from sticking during cooking.

Step 2: Sautéing the Onion

In a large skillet or pot, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and started to bubble, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 3-5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. This step is essential as sautéing the onion brings its sweet flavors to life and enriches the base of the dish.

Step 3: Adding the Rice

Once the onion is ready, add the rinsed rice to the skillet. Stir well to coat each grain of rice with the flavored butter. This will help develop the taste and provide a better texture to the rice. Let the rice sauté lightly for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 4: Wine and Lemon

Pour the dry white wine and lemon juice into the skillet. Mix well, then let the mixture simmer gently. The wine adds depth and complexity to the flavor, while the lemon provides freshness. Cook until the liquid has reduced almost completely, and the rice has absorbed the flavors.

Step 5: Cooking the Rice

Now, add enough water to cover the rice (about 800 ml, but you can adjust depending on the type of rice used). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked. Check occasionally and add water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Adding the Chicken

When the rice is almost done, add the fried chicken drumsticks to the skillet. Cover again and let simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes, so the chicken warms up and the flavors meld.

Step 7: Finishing the Dish

Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated lemon zest on top. This detail will enhance the lemon flavor and add a pleasant look to the dish. Cover the skillet with the lid to let the flavors meld for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken and lemon rice warm, alongside a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables for a balanced lunch or dinner. You can also add some fresh parsley or mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness. A glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal. This recipe also pairs excellently with a side of grilled vegetables or a tomato and cucumber salad.

Nutritional Values

One serving of this recipe contains approximately:

- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g

It is a balanced meal, rich in protein from chicken and carbohydrates from rice, providing energy for the entire day.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

2. Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, it is a healthy and tasty meal, but you can reduce the amount of pepper or spices if necessary.

3. Can I substitute the white wine?
Yes, you can use chicken broth or water to avoid alcohol, but the wine adds a unique flavor.

4. What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment with vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers to add color and nutrients.

5. How can I store leftovers?
Store the rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator, consume it within 2-3 days, or you can freeze portions for later use.

This chicken and lemon rice recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring you joy in cooking. So, embrace this simple yet flavorful recipe and enjoy every bite. Bon appétit!