Name: Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 oz Vermicelli (broken into half inch pieces); 1 cup Long-Grain Rice (not instant); 4 tsp Chicken Bouillon; ½ tsp Italian Seasoning; 1 tsp Dried Parsley; ⅛ tsp Garlic Powder; 2¾ cup Water; 2 Tbsp Butter

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni. Growing up, my family often served this dish on busy weeknights, bringing the taste of home right to our dinner table. The buttery, tender rice mixed with perfectly cooked vermicelli always felt like a warm hug, especially after long days at school. It was my go-to when I craved something hearty yet simple. I remember cooking alongside my mom as she demonstrated how easy it was to whip up this delightful dish. Just the thought of it brings back memories of laughter, chatter, and the inviting aroma wafting through our kitchen. Today, I’m excited to share this recipe that not only fills you up but also warms your soul.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
7 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Large Pot, Skillet

Cooking is about memories and sharing love through food. This Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni holds a special place in my heart. It’s versatile, easy to make, and a fantastic way to feed the family without breaking a sweat. Every time I make it, I feel transported back to those cherished moments with my family. It’s a dish that can adapt to what you have on hand and is sure to please everyone at the table.

The Beauty of This Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni

Easy to Prepare

One of the best things about Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni is how straightforward it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, you can create a fulfilling meal in no time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something quick without compromising on flavor.

Comfort Food at Its Best

This dish is the ultimate comfort food. The combination of rice, vermicelli, and seasonings results in a creamy, savory dish that satisfies any craving. It’s an excellent choice for those chilly nights when all you want is something hearty and warm.

Customizable Recipe

You can easily tailor the Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni recipe to suit your tastes. Want to add some vegetables? Go for it! A bit of peas or carrots can enhance the flavor and add a pop of color. This adaptability makes it a fantastic family meal that everyone can enjoy.

Perfect for Leftovers

Another reason to love this dish is that it makes fantastic leftovers. The flavors deepen and meld together beautifully when it’s reheated, making it an ideal meal prep option for those looking to save time in the kitchen. You can enjoy it for lunch the next day or serve it again for dinner, and it will still taste amazing.

Budget-Friendly

This recipe is not only simple and delicious; it’s also budget-friendly. With affordable ingredients, Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni can feed the whole family without putting a strain on your wallet. It’s a win-win for anyone cooking on a budget.

What Goes Into Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni

The ingredients in Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni work harmoniously to create a delicious dish that warms the heart. The combination of vermicelli and long-grain rice provides a delightful texture, while chicken bouillon and seasonings infuse the dish with rich flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering a comforting experience that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Vermicelli: 2 oz of vermicelli, broken into half-inch pieces, adds a delightful texture to the dish. When cooked, it absorbs the flavors beautifully, creating a cohesive taste.
Long-Grain Rice: 1 cup of long-grain rice (not instant) provides the foundation of the dish, delivering a fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the pasta.
Chicken Bouillon: 4 tsp of chicken bouillon adds depth to the flavor profile, ensuring the rice is seasoned perfectly.
Italian Seasoning: ½ tsp of Italian seasoning imparts a subtle herbaceous note, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Dried Parsley: 1 tsp of dried parsley adds a hint of freshness and color to the dish.
Garlic Powder: ⅛ tsp of garlic powder contributes a warm, savory flavor that rounds out the dish.
Water: 2¾ cups of water is essential for cooking the rice and pasta, helping them achieve the perfect texture.
Butter: 2 Tbsp of butter adds richness and creaminess, making the dish indulgent.

Cooking Instructions for Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni

Cooking Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni is a straightforward and rewarding experience. You’ll love how quickly the ingredients come together, creating a warm, comforting dish. Let’s get started!

In a large skillet, melt 2 Tbsp of butter over medium heat. As it melts, it will start to bubble and turn a light golden color, filling your kitchen with a delicious buttery aroma.
Add the broken vermicelli and rice to the skillet. Stir them together gently, coating them in the melted butter. You’ll want to cook these until they are lightly browned, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as they can brown quickly!
Once the pasta and rice are golden, pour in 2¾ cups of water along with 4 tsp of chicken bouillon, ½ tsp of Italian seasoning, 1 tsp of dried parsley, and ⅛ tsp of garlic powder. Stir everything together, ensuring that the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. As it starts to bubble, you’ll hear the water singing, and the aroma will become even more inviting.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. This will trap the steam and help the rice cook evenly. Let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes.
During this time, you might want to check occasionally; make sure to stir gently to prevent sticking. The rice should absorb all the water and become tender, while the vermicelli becomes soft and fluffy.
After 15 to 20 minutes, check if the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked through. If necessary, you can add a splash more of water and continue cooking for a couple of minutes.
Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit covered for about 5 minutes. This resting time will complete the cooking process and allow the flavors to meld together.
Finally, fluff the rice with a fork, serve it warm, and enjoy your delicious Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Technique: Keep a close watch on the vermicelli as it can burn quickly when browning.
Water Ratio: Make sure to measure the water accurately to avoid a dry dish or overly mushy rice.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Heating: When reheating, add a little bit of water to prevent the dish from drying out.

Making Adjustments

Cooking is all about creativity, and Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni is no exception. Here are some tips to help you personalize your dish.

Storage: Leftover Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing: You can freeze the dish for up to two months. Be sure to divide it into portions and use freezer-safe containers.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables, offering a balance of flavors.
Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding some sautéed onions or bell peppers for a more robust flavor profile.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten up the dish and add a fresh element.
Meal Prep: Make a larger batch over the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
Spice Level: If you like a little heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!

Pairing Suggestions for Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni

The beauty of Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni lies in its versatility. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Fresh Salads: Serve with a crisp green salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Steamed Vegetables: Pair it with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy addition.
Soups: A light soup as a starter can make for a warm and inviting meal.
Family Dinners: This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks – everyone loves it!
Holiday Feasts: Consider making it for Thanksgiving or other holiday meals as a unique side dish.
Lunch Boxes: It makes for a fantastic lunch option, especially when stored in individual containers.
Comforting Dinner: Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni is an excellent choice for cozy nights in, paired with your favorite movie.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni ahead of time. Simply cook it and allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it from drying out. This makes it a great meal prep option for busy weeks!

To enhance the nutritional value of your Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni, consider adding a variety of vegetables such as peas, carrots, or even spinach. You can sauté these veggies with the rice and vermicelli for a few minutes before adding the liquid. This not only boosts the flavor but also adds fiber and vitamins!

Yes, you can easily make Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni vegetarian by omitting the chicken bouillon and using vegetable broth instead. You might also want to add more vegetables and seasonings to create a robust flavor profile that complements the dish.

Leftover Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in portions. When reheating, just add a splash of water to ensure it stays moist and delicious!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Homemade Chicken Rice-A-Roni is a delightful dish that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart. With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, it’s a must-try for anyone looking for an easy weeknight dinner. I encourage you to give it a go; you’ll find it becomes a cherished recipe in your home, just as it has in mine.