old fashioned baked chicken with rice and pimentos recipe

Old-Fashioned Baked Chicken with Rice and Pimentos Recipe

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The smell of baked chicken wafting from the oven brought back warm memories of family gatherings. It reminded me of the timeless flavors that have been passed down through generations. I’m excited to share with you a recipe that brings back those comforting feelings – Old-Fashioned Baked Chicken with Rice and Pimentos.

This dish will take you back to a simpler time. It’s a taste of old-fashioned home-cooked goodness that will leave you wanting more.

Introduction to Old Fashioned Baked Chicken

Enjoying old fashioned baked chicken with rice and pimentos feels like getting a warm hug from grandma. This classic dish is a favorite for family dinners. It’s loved for its comforting taste and simple ingredients.

What Makes It “Old-Fashioned”?

This baked chicken dish is special because it uses traditional cooking methods and ingredients. It doesn’t need fancy ingredients like many modern recipes do. Instead, it uses basic items like rice, pimentos, and spices. The chicken comes out tender and juicy, with a crispy skin that reminds us of the past.

The Comforting Nature of This Dish

This recipe is not just old-fashioned; it’s also incredibly comforting. The mix of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and sweet pimentos creates a perfect blend of flavors. It’s a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, making it perfect for family dinners and cozy nights in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the classic baked chicken and rice with pimentos, you’ll need a few key items. Start with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for protein. Choose long-grain white rice to soak up the flavors. You’ll also need an onion, garlic, a red bell pepper, tomato sauce, and chicken stock for moisture and richness.

Essential Ingredients for the Recipe

  • 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-2 inch pieces
  • 1 + ½ cups of long-grain white rice
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup of tomato sauce
  • 3 cups of low-sodium chicken stock
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon of saffron (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 ounces of green olives stuffed with pimentos
  • 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

Want to boost the flavor of your pimento recipes or chicken and rice casserole? Try these optional ingredients:

  • 4 ounces of chorizo sausage, diced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a tasty and comforting dish. It’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Preparation Steps

Preparing the perfect baked chicken entrées with rice and pimentos is easy and fun. Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-2 inch pieces. Season them well with salt and pepper. Then, sear the chicken in a skillet for 5-6 minutes, until it’s golden-brown.

Next, let’s talk about the rice. For this vintage cooking dish, use a simple ratio of 1 cup of rice to 1.5 cups of liquid. Before cooking, rinse the rice to remove excess starch. Add the rice, chicken, and other ingredients to the pot. Let it cook for about 25 minutes, until the rice is tender and fluffy.

IngredientQuantity
Wild Rice1 cup
Liquid (Chicken Broth or Water)1.5 cups
Cooking Time25 minutes

By following these simple steps, you’ll enjoy a delicious baked chicken entrées dish. It will have perfectly cooked rice and pimentos. Now, let’s move on to layering the ingredients!

Layering the Ingredients

One-pot meals and layered casseroles are the ultimate comfort food. The old-fashioned baked chicken with rice and pimentos is a great example. The secret is in how you layer the ingredients.

This method ensures even cooking and a perfect mix of flavors. Every bite is a delight.

Arranging Chicken and Rice

Start by sautéing the chicken in a skillet until it’s golden brown. Then, remove the chicken and set it aside. Next, sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant.

Stir in the rice and seasonings, letting it toast for a minute or two. Pour in the chicken stock and tomato sauce, making sure to scrape up any browned bits.

Adding Pimentos for Flavor

Once the rice mixture is ready, place the seared chicken on top. Drain the pimentos and spread them over the rice and chicken. The pimentos add color and a sweet flavor.

This layered approach ensures the chicken bakes perfectly and the rice cooks well. It makes a delicious one-pot meal or layered casserole.

“The secret to making this dish truly old-fashioned and comforting is in the layering of the ingredients. It’s a classic technique that ensures every bite is packed with flavor.”

Baking Instructions

Get ready to enjoy the smell of perfectly baked dishes! First, heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for cooking your old-fashioned baked chicken with rice and pimentos just right.

Preheating the Oven

When your oven is hot, move the layered ingredients to a 3-quart casserole dish. This helps the chicken, rice, and pimentos cook evenly. They will develop a delicious, comforting flavor.

Baking Time and Temperature

  1. Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. It should be hot through and the rice fully cooked.
  2. For an easier option, cook it on the stovetop. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes. The rice should be tender and the chicken cooked.

By following these easy steps, you’ll make a delicious, old-fashioned baked chicken with rice and pimentos. It will remind you of mom’s kitchen. Enjoy the comfort and flavor of this classic dish!

Nutrition FactsPer Serving
Calories662
Fat47 g
Saturated Fat11 g
Carbohydrates16 g
Sugar6 g
Fiber3 g
Protein44 g
Sodium1,077 mg
Cholesterol226 mg

Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken

Getting perfect baked chicken is all about a few key techniques. You might want crispy skin or juicy meat. These tips will help you master chicken cooking techniques and make moist chicken recipes everyone will love.

Achieving Crispy Skin

For that golden-brown skin, follow these steps. Use skin-on chicken pieces for the best results. The fat in the skin makes it crisp up well.

Place the chicken on top of the rice mixture before baking. This lets the skin get direct heat, making it crispy.

Keeping the Chicken Juicy

To keep chicken juicy, use a meat thermometer. Make sure it hits 165°F (74°C) to avoid dryness. Overcooking is a big no-no, so watch the temperature closely.

Choose chicken thighs over breasts for juicier meat. Darker meat dries out less during baking.

With these tips, you’ll make moist chicken recipes with crispy skin and juicy meat. Improve your baking skills and wow your family with your chicken cooking techniques.

Baked chicken

Serving Suggestions

The Old-Fashioned Baked Chicken with Rice and Pimentos is a complete meal. It has protein, grains, and vegetables. You can make it even better by adding side dishes that enhance the flavors.

Ideal Side Dishes

  • Hot buttered biscuits or toasted garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce
  • A crisp romaine salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast
  • Steamed broccoli, Italian green beans, or green peas for additional vegetable servings

Pairing with Salads or Vegetables

The dish’s savory chicken, creamy rice, and vibrant pimentos go well with fresh salads or vegetables. Try serving it with a Caesar salad or roasted Brussels sprouts. This makes a balanced meal that’s good for you and tastes great.

Add fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges. This adds a bright, zesty note. The mix of flavors and textures will make this dish a family favorite.

Storing Leftovers

Enjoying leftovers from your homemade baked chicken with rice and pimentos is a treat. But, it’s important to store them right. Let the dish cool down completely before you put it away. This helps keep the food safe and fresh.

Proper Cooling Techniques

After it’s cooled, put the chicken and rice in an airtight container or bag. This keeps the flavors in and the food moist. Make sure to refrigerate it within 2 hours of cooking.

Reheating Tips for Best Results

When you’re ready to eat your leftovers, just take them out of the fridge. To keep the dish moist, add a bit of water before reheating. This way, it will taste as good as the first time, maybe even better.

Storing LeftoversReheating Leftovers
  • Allow dish to cool completely before storing
  • Transfer to airtight container or resealable bag
  • Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
  • Remove from refrigerator
  • Sprinkle a little water over the top
  • Reheat in microwave or oven until thoroughly warm

By using these easy tips, you can enjoy your baked chicken with rice and pimentos for days. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any time.

Variations of the Recipe

The classic baked chicken and rice dish can be made to fit your taste or dietary needs. You can try different proteins or vegetarian options. There’s a lot of room for creativity.

Using Different Proteins

Want a twist on traditional chicken? Try using chorizo sausage or seafood. Spicy chorizo adds depth, while shrimp or fish bring a seafood flavor. Just adjust cooking times and seasonings for your new protein.

Vegetarian Alternatives

For a meatless version, swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu. Chickpeas are protein-rich, and tofu mimics chicken texture. Add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for nutrition. Use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian.

Protein SubstitutionSeasoning Adjustment
Chorizo SausageIncrease cumin, smoked paprika
ShrimpAdd lemon zest, garlic, parsley
ChickpeasUse chili powder, cumin, oregano
TofuIncorporate soy sauce, garlic, ginger

Choosing a different protein or dietary option? Adjust seasonings and cooking methods to match. Try new flavors to make a dish that suits your taste and diet.

recipe adaptations

Nutritional Information

This old-fashioned baked chicken with rice and pimentos dish is not just tasty. It also has great nutritional benefits. A single serving has about 317 calories. It has 21g of fat, 17g of carbs, and 16g of protein.

Calories and Macros Breakdown

The dish meets 26% of your daily fat needs and 16% of cholesterol. It also covers 34% of your sodium intake. But, it’s also packed with protein, vitamin C, and potassium. This makes it a balanced meal.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

  • The chicken is a lean protein source, important for muscle health.
  • The rice gives you energy with its carbs.
  • The veggies and pimentos add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for better health.

This classic dish is a great mix of healthy eating and nutritional value. It’s a satisfying and nourishing meal for your family.

NutrientAmount per Serving% Daily Value
Calories317–
Total Fat21g26%
Cholesterol76mg16%
Sodium798mg34%
Total Carbohydrates17g6%
Protein16g32%

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the classic Old-Fashioned Baked Chicken with Rice and Pimentos, watch out for a few common mistakes. These can make or break your dish. By avoiding these errors, you’ll make a meal that’s both delicious and comforting.

Overcooking the Rice

Cooking the rice just right is key in this recipe. Overcooked rice can mess up the dish’s texture and taste. Make sure to cook the rice as recommended and use the right amount of liquid. Instant or brown rice can change the cooking time and texture, so it’s best to avoid them.

Skipping the Seasoning

Don’t skip the seasonings! The mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder is crucial for the Old-Fashioned Baked Chicken‘s flavor. Take the time to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. This will make your dish as tasty as it can be.

Common MistakeProper Technique
Overcooking the riceFollow the recommended cooking time and liquid ratio for the type of rice used
Skipping the seasoningUse a blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to enhance the flavors

By avoiding these common cooking tips and recipe troubleshooting mistakes, you’ll make a perfectly baked chicken dish. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Conclusion

Old-fashioned baked chicken with rice and pimentos is a true comfort food classic. It’s perfect for easy family meals. This dish is loved for its simple flavors and how well it fits into any meal plan.

Final Thoughts on This Classic Dish

This recipe is great for those who are always on the go. It’s easy to make and clean up. The chicken, rice, and pimentos work together beautifully, making every bite a joy.

Encouragement to Try the Recipe

Don’t hesitate to try this classic dish, whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out. It’s a recipe that fills your home with warm, inviting smells. It’s a way to bring your family closer together over a delicious meal.

FAQ

What makes this chicken dish “old-fashioned”?

This chicken dish is old-fashioned because it reminds us of grandma’s cooking. It uses simple ingredients like chicken, rice, and veggies in one dish. This makes it a true traditional meal.

What are the essential ingredients for this recipe?

You’ll need chicken thighs or breast, white rice, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Also, tomato sauce, chicken stock, paprika, saffron, salt, pepper, and green olives stuffed with pimento. Don’t forget cilantro.

How do you prepare the chicken for this dish?

Cut boneless, skinless thighs into 1-2 inch pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Then, sear the chicken in a skillet for 5-6 minutes until it starts to brown.

What’s the best way to cook the rice in this recipe?

Rinse the rice before cooking. Use a 1:1.5 ratio of rice to liquid. Cook the rice with the chicken and other ingredients in the same pot for about 25 minutes until tender.

How do you layer the ingredients in the casserole dish?

Start by sautéing the chicken. Then add veggies like onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Stir in the rice and seasonings, then add the chicken stock and tomato sauce. Place the chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture and add drained pimentos.

What’s the baking time and temperature for this dish?

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Put the layered ingredients in a 3-quart casserole dish. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and the rice is fully cooked.

How can you ensure the chicken stays juicy and the skin is crispy?

To keep the chicken juicy, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Choose chicken thighs for more moisture. For crispy skin, use skin-on chicken pieces and place them on top of the rice mixture before baking.

What are some good side dish options to serve with this baked chicken and rice dish?

Serve with hot buttered biscuits, toasted garlic bread, or a crispy romaine salad. For veggies, try steamed broccoli, Italian green beans, or green peas.

How long will the leftovers last, and how should they be reheated?

Let the dish cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the dish to prevent drying out, then microwave or reheat in the oven until thoroughly warm.

What are some variations or substitutions for this recipe?

Try using chorizo sausage or seafood instead of chicken. For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

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