Lemon-Garlic Chicken And Rice

When I first started this blog my mama was so supportive. I received a surprise package and inside it was loaded with cookbooks. In that stack was a Rice-A-Roni and Noodle-Roni: Recipes For Busy Cooks cookbook. At the time convenience cooking wasn't that necessary since I was an at home mama. Now that I work a full time job meals that come together in 30 minutes or less are very helpful to avoid turning to fast food. 

While I don't prefer to cook using boxed mixes because of the sodium content I don't mind every once in a while. I once only thought of Rice-A-Roni as a side dish. This cookbook has changed that thinking. Seasoned chicken is browned in a skillet then simmers with the rice as it cooks. Before serving red bell peppers (forgot to buy one) and lemon peel are stirred into the rice. 

This was absolutely flavorful and enjoyed by everyone. Definitely a keeper recipe for a busy work night. Just serve with a tossed salad. 

Lemon-Garlic Chicken And Rice

Rice-A-Roni And Noodle-Roni: Recipes For Busy Cooks

Makes 4 servings

Stars of the Show:

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1 tsp paprika
• salt and pepper (optional)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 package (6.9 oz) Chicken Flavor Rice-A-Roni
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 cup red or green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 tsp grated lemon peel

Action:

Sprinkle chicken with paprika, salt, and pepper.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and garlic, cook 2 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from skillet, set side, reserve drippings. Keep warm.

In the same skillet, saute rice-vermicelli mix in reserved drippings over medium heat, until vermicelli is golden brown. Stir in 2 1/4 cups water, lemon juice, and contents of seasoning packet. Top rice with chicken, bring to a boil over high heat.

Cover, reduce heat. Simmer 10 minutes. Stir in red bell pepper and lemon peel.

Cover and continue to simmer 10 minutes or until liquid is absorbed, rice is tender and chicken is no longer pink inside.

Nutritional Information Per Serving:

Calories: 360

Total Fat: 8g

Saturated Fat: 1g

Cholesterol: 70mg

Vitamin A: 41%

Vitamin C: 87%

Sodium: 850mg

Carbohydrates: 39g

Dietary Fiber: 2g

Protein: 33g

Calcium: 4%

Iron: 22%