Easy and Delicious Gluten-Free Chicken Rice Recipe

As a nutritionist and food blogger, I understand the importance of healthy and gluten-free cooking. That’s why I’m excited to share this delicious gluten-free chicken rice a roni dinner recipe with you today.

This recipe is perfect for those who need a quick and easy dinner solution without sacrificing taste and nutrition. Made from fresh vegetables, succulent chicken breasts, and aromatic spices, this dish is a great addition to any dinner table.

With just 20 minutes of prep time and 5 minutes of cook time, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it can easily be made in an instant pot or on the stove.

So if you’re tired of eating bland and boring gluten-free meals, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gluten Free Chicken Rice a Roni Dinner
Gluten Free Chicken Rice a Roni Dinner

I assure you that this Gluten Free Chicken Rice a Roni Dinner Recipe is a dish that you won’t be able to resist. Not only is it gluten-free and dairy-free, but it’s also organic and absolutely delicious. The combination of seasoned chicken breasts and black pepper blended with a medley of zucchini, celery ribs, carrots, onions, and spinach creates an explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

The recipe uses long grain white rice which is gluten-free and can be cooked in almost no time – just in 20 minutes. Additionally, the recipe yields a considerable amount of servings, making it an ideal choice for dinner parties, cookouts or family gatherings.

With its savory aroma and delightful taste, this chicken rice a Roni dinner recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Make it once and you will love it forever. Can you imagine enjoying eating healthy while getting the most out of a flavorful and healthy diet? Look no further than this homemade gluten-free rice Roni recipe. It’s definitely worth a try!

Ingredient List

“Creamy and comforting gluten-free chicken rice”

Here’s a list of gluten-free ingredients you’ll need for this delicious chicken rice a roni recipe:

  • Chicken breasts: 2 pieces (1 lb) boneless and skinless.
  • Sea salt: 1 tsp.
  • Black pepper: Freshly ground to taste.
  • Bay leaves: 2.
  • Poultry seasoning: 1 tsp.
  • Olive oil: For cooking, sufficient amount.
  • Butter: 2 tbsp.
  • White rice: 1 1/2 cups long grain, rinsed and drained.
  • Gluten-free Rice-A-Roni®: 1 box (6.9 oz), spaghetti noodles broken into 1-inch pieces.
  • Zucchini: 1 small, diced.
  • Celery ribs: 2, diced.
  • Carrots: 2, peeled and diced into small pieces.
  • Onion: 1 medium, chopped.
  • Fresh spinach leaves: for garnish

The Recipe How-To

“Say goodbye to boxed dinners with this homemade recipe”

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

  • Before getting started on this delicious gluten-free chicken rice a roni dinner recipe, it’s essential to prep all of your ingredients. This step is crucial for ensuring that the dish comes out perfectly, so take your time!
  • Start by washing spinach and cutting it into small pieces.
  • Cut 2 chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces and season with black pepper, poultry seasoning, and a pinch of sea salt.
  • Peel and chop 3 medium carrots, roughly chop 2 celery ribs, finely chop 1 onion, and cut 1 small zucchini or yellow squash into 1-inch pieces.
  • Open a package of Rice a Roni long grain white rice (which is gluten-free). Measure out 1 1/2 cups of rice and 2 tablespoons of butter.
  • You can use an Instant Pot or make this recipe on the stovetop. Set either to saute and add 1 tablespoon olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  • Add the marinated chicken to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes until lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables and Rice

  • In the same pot, add one more tablespoon of oil if needed. Add onion, celery, carrots, and zucchini pieces. Sautee for approximately five minutes until vegetables are browned yet tender.
  • Add spinach, bay leaves, seasoning package from rice roni box (but discard the rice-pasta mix), and stir until spinach is wilted.
  • Add 2 cups of water to your instant pot or stovetop pot containing sauteed vegetables. Bring water to a boil.
  • Add 1 1/2 cups of long grain white rice and 2 tablespoons of butter. Reduce heat, stir well, cover, and simmer the mixture for 20 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.

Step 4: Add Chicken to the Rice

  • Return the cooked chicken back into the pot with cooked rice and vegetables mix. Give it a good stir for a minute to heat up chicken again.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

  • Your gluten-free chicken Rice a Roni dinner recipe is now ready to put on the table.
  • It works great as a main course or even as a hearty side dish. And if you’re looking for some inspiration on what to pair it with, some steamed veggies or a fresh salad are great options.
  • This is an easy-to-make recipe that will satisfy your hunger in no time while being gluten-free, dairy-free, and organic!

Substitutions and Variations

“One-pot wonder perfect for busy weeknights”

Now, let’s talk about some substitutions and variations for this Gluten Free Chicken Rice a Roni Dinner Recipe. Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and adjust ingredients based on what you have available or what you prefer.

– For a vegetarian or vegan version, omit the chicken and swap the butter for your preferred plant-based spread. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to give it a richer flavor.

– If you’re not a fan of white rice, try using brown rice or quinoa instead. Just know that the cook time may vary depending on the type of grain you choose.

– Feel free to add more veggies to this dish! Broccoli, bell peppers, and mushrooms are great options that would complement the flavors well.

– If you don’t have spinach on hand, kale or Swiss chard would also work nicely.

– Instead of chicken breasts, consider using chicken thighs or even ground turkey for a different texture and taste.

– For a dairy-free version, switch out the butter for olive oil.

Keep in mind that substitutions may affect overall flavor and cook time, so adjust accordingly. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations until you find what works best for your taste buds.

Serving and Pairing

“Healthy and flavorful twist on a classic dish”

Serving this gluten-free chicken and rice roni dinner recipe is an absolute delight. The aroma of the Mediterranean spices and flavors will fill your kitchen, not to mention your taste buds. This dish is a complete meal in itself with all the essential nutrients that your body needs. To add a dash of verdant freshness, you can serve a side of garden-fresh spinach salad with this chicken and rice roni dinner recipe.

The herbaceous spinach salad complements the lightness of the chicken and rice roni dish. The fresh leafy greens coated with a tangy vinaigrette add a layer of refreshing crunch and zestiness to this rustic dish. The bite-sized chunks of zucchini, celery ribs, carrots, and onions simmered with succulent chicken breasts make for an appetizing sight that is bound to make every diner’s mouth water.

To enhance the flavor profile further, you can also pair this gluten-free chicken and rice roni dinner recipe with a glass of chilled white wine. The wine’s acidity and fruity notes will balance the savory richness of this dish perfectly.

This indulgent gluten-free chicken and rice roni dinner recipe transforms into an extravagant feast when paired with creamy mashed potatoes or vegetable medley on the side. Whether you choose to serve it as a single course stand-alone meal or as part of an elaborate meal plan, this homemade rice roni recipe is sure to leave everyone craving for more!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

“Gluten-free never tasted so good”

As a busy nutritionist, I know how important it is to streamline everyday meals. This gluten-free Chicken Rice a Roni dish is perfect for make-ahead dishes as it can hold up in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also prepare the chicken and cut up the vegetables ahead of time to save even more time.

To store this dish, make sure it is properly sealed in an airtight container. Glass containers with snap-on lids work best, since they are easy to stack in the refrigerator or freezer. These types of containers can also be placed directly into the microwave without any concerns.

When reheating, you can simply pop the container into the microwave and heat until it reaches your desired temperature. If the rice turns out dry after reheating, you can add some water or broth to remoisten it.

This chicken rice a Roni recipe also works well as a meal prep for busy weeknights or for taking lunch to work. Divide into small portion containers and enjoy throughout the week.

As with any leftovers, make sure they are properly stored and consumed within three days to ensure safety and freshness.

Tips for Perfect Results

“Dairy-free and still delicious”

When it comes to cooking gluten-free, dairy-free, and organic meals, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips to ensure that your Gluten-Free Chicken Rice-a-Roni Dinner Recipe turns out perfectly every time.

1. Use high-quality ingredients: Choosing fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the flavors and textures of your dish. When selecting your vegetables and chicken, look for organic options whenever possible.

2. Rinse your rice: Before cooking your rice, rinse it thoroughly with cold water. This helps remove any excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.

3. Sauté the vegetables separately: By sautéing the vegetables in a separate pan from the chicken, you can ensure that each ingredient is cooked perfectly. Vegetables like zucchini and carrots require different cook times than chicken breasts, so taking the extra step to sauté them individually can make a big difference in the end result.

4. Use a good quality gluten-free chicken broth: The broth is an important component of this recipe as it adds depth of flavor to the dish. Be sure to choose a gluten-free version that is high in quality to prevent any off-tastes in the final dish.

5. Let it sit: Once your Gluten-Free Chicken Rice-a-Roni Dinner Recipe is finished cooking, allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes for a more evenly cooked dish.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to achieve optimal results every time you make this recipe. Enjoy!

FAQ

As we come to the end of this recipe article, I would like to take the opportunity to address some of the most commonly asked questions by our readers about this Gluten-free Chicken Rice a Roni Dinner Recipe. From ingredient substitutions to cooking methods, these queries will give you more insight into how to make this recipe perfect for your individual needs. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

Is Chicken Rice-A-Roni gluten-free?

Unfortunately, rice-a-roni does not meet the gluten-free standards as it usually contains wheat-based pasta in its ingredients.

Why isn t Rice-A-Roni gluten-free?

If you are looking for gluten-free options, it’s important to note that Pasta Roni® and Rice-A-Roni® products are not suitable since they include wheat flour. Rice-A-Roni® blends rice with pasta such as orzo and vermicelli, which also contain wheat.

What can I use instead of butter for Rice-A-Roni?

Preparing Rice a Roni without butter can be done, although its flavor will differ from the original boxed version. The butter is a crucial ingredient in this dish as it adds flavor by browning the pasta and rice grains. However, if you prefer not to use butter, you can substitute it with olive oil.

What is the best gluten-free rice?

When rice is processed, the bran and germ are removed from the grain. This results in white rice, which has comparatively lesser nutritional value than brown rice. Brown rice is a gluten-free grain that contains higher levels of fiber and important micronutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, the Gluten-Free Chicken Rice A Roni Dinner Recipe is a delicious and healthy option to incorporate in your daily meals. With nutritious ingredients like chicken breasts, zucchini, carrots, and spinach, this dish is packed with anti-oxidants and protein. By using gluten-free rice, long grain white rice, and poultry seasoning without any wheat-based pasta mix, this recipe provides a gluten-free and dairy-free meal that everyone can enjoy.

What’s best about this recipe is its versatility; it can be served on its own as a complete meal or as a side dish to complement other dishes. Additionally, the recipe is easy to make and takes only 20 minutes of prep time and 5 minutes of cooking time.

By following the recipe instructions carefully and substituting ingredients to your liking, this recipe can become your family’s favorite dinner option. Therefore, I highly recommend that you try the Gluten-Free Chicken Rice A Roni Dinner Recipe today- your taste buds and your health will thank you!

Gluten Free Chicken Rice a Roni Dinner

Gluten Free Chicken Rice a Roni Dinner Recipe

My favourite idea from Bette Hagman's books (and I got lots) was Rice a Roni. It was one of the things I missed the most when we went gluten free. This recipe, with her suggestion, is identical to the one I made with gluten. It's a great week night dinner, as it's fast, healthy and in one pot.
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Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Gluten-free
Calories 535.4 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 6 ounces gluten-free pasta, spaghetti, broken in one inch pieces
  • 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped fine
  • 4 carrots, chopped fine
  • 3 celery ribs, chopped fine
  • 1 medium zucchini, chopped fine (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 4 cups gluten-free chicken stock
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 -3 chicken breasts, chopped into bite size pieces
  • 8 -10 ounces spinach, chopped (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Place broken spaghetti on dry cookie sheet and place in 400°F oven shaking every couple of minutes until it is brown and smells nutty, usually between 5 to 10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  • In a deep pan with a lid or a dutch oven on medium, heat butter and oil until bubbly then add onions, carrots, and celery. Salt the vegetables to help them release their liquids and cook until onions are translucent. Add the poultry seasoning, pepper and the dry rice and cook, stirring constantly until the rice is coated, about one minute.
  • Add the pasta, the stock, the bay leaves, zucchini and the chicken, stir and cover. Bring to a boil then turn heat down to medium low and cook for 15 minutes. Check to see that it has enough fluid, if not add a 1/2 cup of water and continue cooking, covered until rice is done, about five more minutes.
  • If you like spinach, add it now and cook until it wilts down.
  • I stir in a couple of tablespoons of butter at the end for the flavour and shine. Remove the bay leaves and serve.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 392gCalories: 535.4kcalCarbohydrates: 66.4gProtein: 21.3gFat: 19.9gSaturated Fat: 6.7gCholesterol: 61.7mgSodium: 739mgFiber: 3.7gSugar: 5g
Keyword < 30 Mins, Egg-free, Free Of..., Lactose-free, One-Dish Meal
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