What makes a comforting weeknight dinner truly unforgettable? For me, it’s a flavorful homemade gravy smothering tender chicken and fluffy rice. This easy family favorite recipe relies on simple ingredients like juicy chicken breast and aromatic sauteed onions. Save this idea for a quick and satisfying meal solution that’s sure to become a staple in your household.

Two Plates with Chicken and Rice Covered in Gravy

Introduction

Imagine a dish so comforting and flavorful, it becomes an instant favorite in your household. Two plates with chicken and rice covered in gravy is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the richness of a home-cooked feast. This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, allowing you to unleash your creativity in the kitchen while enjoying the satisfaction of a meal well made. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a family, this dish promises to deliver on both flavor and comfort, making it an excellent choice for any day of the week.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of chicken, rice, and gravy offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that everyone can enjoy. Plus, these ingredients are easily found in most grocery stores, making it simple to prepare.
Ease of preparation: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal preparation time, making it ideal for busy days when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the dish presents well and is sure to impress family and friends with its rich, savory gravy and perfectly cooked chicken and rice.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, uncooked white or brown rice, chicken broth, and gravy mix or homemade gravy ingredients like flour and butter. For added flavor, you can include vegetables such as carrots, peas, and onions. Practical substitutions can be made based on personal preferences or dietary needs, such as using gluten-free gravy mix or substituting chicken with turkey or plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian or vegan version.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Chop any vegetables you plan to include, measure out your rice and chicken broth, and season your chicken with your choice of herbs and spices.
Step 2: Cook your chicken and rice. You can cook the chicken in a skillet with a little oil until it’s browned on both sides and cooked through, and cook the rice according to the package instructions using chicken broth for added flavor.
Step 3: Prepare your gravy. If using a mix, follow the package instructions. For homemade gravy, melt butter in a pan, whisk in flour to make a roux, then slowly add chicken broth, whisking continuously until the gravy thickens.
Step 4: Combine everything. Slice your cooked chicken, place it on top of a bed of rice on each plate, and spoon your hot gravy over the top. Add any cooked vegetables on the side or mixed into the rice for added color and nutrition.

Handy Tips

For a crisper exterior on your chicken, make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken, and don’t stir it too much. Let it develop a nice brown crust on one side before flipping it over.
Use low-sodium chicken broth if you’re watching your salt intake, and adjust the amount of gravy mix according to your taste preferences.
Avoid overcooking the rice and chicken. Rice should be tender but still slightly firm in the center, and chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without being overcooked or dry.

Heat Control

When cooking the chicken, aim for medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear on the outside. For the gravy, medium heat is ideal to prevent the roux from burning and to allow the gravy to thicken slowly. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through, and adjust the heat as necessary when cooking the rice to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish can come from crispy cooked vegetables or a bit of crunch on the outside of the chicken. To achieve this, make sure your vegetables are not overcooked and retain some of their natural crunch. For the chicken, the initial sear in the skillet should provide a nice texture contrast to the softness of the rice and gravy.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

For an extra rich gravy, use the drippings from the chicken pan, scraping up any browned bits for added depth of flavor.
Keep your rice warm by covering the pot with a lid and wrapping it in a towel to prevent it from drying out while you finish cooking the chicken and gravy.
Clean as you go to avoid a big mess at the end. Wash utensils and pans after use, and wipe down countertops to make cleanup more manageable.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken, rice, and gravy separately to prevent drying out, and combine them just before serving.
For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. The chicken and gravy freeze well, but it’s best to cook fresh rice when you’re ready to eat it.
Use airtight, microwave-safe containers for reheating convenience and to preserve flavors and textures.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this meal, perhaps to a new neighbor or a friend in need, you can package it in a decorative microwave-safe container with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad. Add a ribbon around the container and include a homemade card with reheating instructions for a personal touch.

Flavor Variations

Different spices: Try adding paprika for a smoky flavor, cumin for a southwestern twist, or herbs like thyme and rosemary for a more traditional roasted flavor.
Creative toppings: Add some sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or chopped fresh herbs on top of the chicken and rice for extra flavor and color.
Ingredient swaps: Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood version, or use different types of rice like jasmine or basmati for varying flavors and textures.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If your rice is too dry, try adding a bit more chicken broth. If your gravy is too thick, whisk in some hot water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use water as a substitute, though the flavor might not be as rich. For gluten-free diets, ensure your gravy mix or flour is gluten-free.
Over/undercooking signs: Check your chicken’s internal temperature to avoid undercooking. For overcooking, watch the texture of the chicken and rice; they should be tender but not dry or mushy.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the chicken and gravy. It’s best to cook the rice fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Is it gluten-free? This can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free gravy mix or flour and being mindful of the ingredients in your chicken broth and seasonings.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, simply double all the ingredients. Keep an eye on cooking times, especially for the chicken, to ensure everything is cooked through without overcooking.

Conclusion

This recipe for two plates with chicken and rice covered in gravy is a testament to the power of simple, well-chosen ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s a dish that invites creativity and adaptation, perfect for experimenting with different spices, vegetables, and presentation ideas. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this meal is sure to become a staple in your household, offering comfort, flavor, and the satisfaction of a job well done. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the process of cooking and sharing a delicious meal with others.

Chicken and Rice Gravy