Lunch & Dinner

Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Name: Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 3 boneless chicken breasts; 5 cups of rich chicken broth from poached chicken or filtered water; 2 cups of nutty brown rice; 1 can of velvety evaporated milk; 2 tablespoons of creamy unsalted butter; Generous pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper; 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

Martha Adams March 19, 2025

Servings: 8 Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and rice. It’s one of those meals that feels like a hug from Grandma, isn’t it? The delightful aroma wafting through the kitchen makes my mouth water.

When I think of side dishes to pair with this culinary treasure, I couldn’t help but beam at the thought of a fresh green salad or perhaps a side of sautéed greens.

They add a crisp contrast and elevate the yummy factor without overshadowing the star of the show.

What is Old-Fashioned Chicken and Rice?

Old-fashioned chicken and rice is a nostalgic dish that brings back memories of family dinners and chilly evenings. It features tender chicken cooked until juicy, nestled atop a bed of fluffy rice, all bathed in delicious broth.

This simple yet satisfying meal has earned its place as a staple in many households, thanks to its hearty nature and ease of preparation. It screams comfort food, yet it requires no advanced culinary skills. Just clean, wholesome ingredients and a touch of patience can transform this dish into something extraordinary.

The Ingredients

To get started, let’s gather the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need:

3 boneless chicken breasts (about 5 cups of tender shredded chicken)
5 cups of rich chicken broth from poached chicken or filtered water
2 cups of nutty brown rice
1 can of velvety evaporated milk
2 tablespoons of creamy unsalted butter
Generous pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

These ingredients blend together to create a dish that is rich, filling, and full of flavor.

Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Copycat Recipe

How to Make Old-Fashioned Chicken and Rice

While I won’t dive deep into a lengthy introduction about making this dish, I promise it isn’t difficult at all.

With the right ingredients and a bit of attention, you can whip up this home-cooked classic. Now let’s jump straight into the step-by-step directions!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by poaching the chicken in a large pot. Add the chicken breasts and cover them with water or chicken broth. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer. This method allows the chicken to soak in the flavors. Cook until the chicken is tender and cooked through—about 20-30 minutes.

Once ready, remove the chicken and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Then, shred it using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In the same pot used for the chicken, add 5 cups of rich chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then add 2 cups of brown rice. Stir well and season it with a pinch of salt.

Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid—typically around 40-45 minutes for brown rice.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once the rice is ready, stir in the shredded chicken. Next, pour in 1 can of evaporated milk. This adds a creamy texture to the dish. Mix in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. The flavors will meld beautifully, giving you a warm, glossy dish.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Taste your mixture. Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your preference. Once satisfied, serve your chicken and rice warm in bowls.

You can even sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top for a hint of color and freshness.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Serve this dish as a standalone meal, or pair it with light sides like sautéed veggies or a crisp salad for a balanced dining experience. Each bite delivers a wave of nostalgia, and I promise, you’ll find yourself going back for seconds!

Notes

Here are my top five tips to ensure your chicken and rice turns out perfectly:

Bone-in Chicken: Using bone-in chicken can add more depth to the broth’s flavor.
Rice Type: While brown rice is the star, white rice can be substituted if that’s what you prefer, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Flavor Variations: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
Use Fresh Vegetables: Toss in some frozen peas or spinach near the end of cooking for added nutrition.
Make It Ahead: This dish reheats well. Prepare it a day in advance for an even richer flavor.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which, let’s face it, rarely happens with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen up the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Looking to complement your chicken and rice? Here are five serving suggestions:

Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Add a side of garlic roasted broccoli. The slight bitterness of the broccoli beautifully balances the creamy chicken and rice.
Simple Green Salad: Toss together a fresh green salad. Use mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach with garlic is perfect. Its earthy flavor pairs well and adds brightness to your plate.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up that delicious creamy goodness.
Pickle Salad: A zesty pickle salad adds a tangy contrast. It brings a refreshing bite that enhances the overall experience.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Old-Fashioned Chicken and Rice?

Life isn’t always perfect, and sometimes you may need to substitute ingredients. Here are five substitutes you can try:

Quinoa for Brown Rice: Quinoa is a fantastic gluten-free alternative. It cooks faster and offers a nutty flavor that works well in this dish.
Coconut Milk Instead of Evaporated Milk: If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut milk is fantastic. It adds a different twist with an exotic flair.
Chicken Thighs: Instead of breasts, use chicken thighs for richer flavor. Thighs are moister and can stand up well to long cooking.
Vegetable Broth for Chicken Broth: For a vegetarian version, opt for vegetable broth. This will still create a flavorful base for your dish.
Different Spices: Experiment with spices like curry powder or chili flakes. This can provide a bold new flavor profile.

Best Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Recipe

Conclusion

Old-fashioned chicken and rice is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day. This dish captures the essence of comfort food, making it the perfect choice for family gatherings or quiet nights in. With clear steps, easy substitutions, and plenty of serving suggestions, you can make it your own.

Whether you’re dishing it out for the family or savoring a quiet moment alone, this comforting classic has a way of warming both your body and soul. Now gather your ingredients, and let’s cook up some memories!

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Print Recipe

Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Author: Martha Adams Cuisine: Southern Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 5 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 391 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Ingredients

3 boneless chicken breasts (about 5 cups of tender shredded chicken)

5 cups of rich chicken broth from poached chicken or filtered water

2 cups of nutty brown rice

1 can of velvety evaporated milk

2 tablespoons of creamy unsalted butter

Generous pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper

1 teaspoon of smoked paprika

¹⁄₂ teaspoon of garlic powder