Citrus chicken bake with fragrant pilaf is a delicious and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion. This dish is not only easy to make, but it is also packed with flavor and nutrients that your body needs.
Whether you are hosting a party or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
For the Citrus Chicken Bake:.
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 lemons, sliced
- 2 oranges, sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Fragrant Pilaf:.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup currants
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
Instructions
For the Citrus Chicken Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and coat an oven-safe baking dish with cooking spray.
- Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and top them with the sliced lemons and oranges.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Drizzle the olive oil mixture over the chicken and fruit in the baking dish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
For the Fragrant Pilaf:
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the basmati rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the rice in the oil.
- Add the chicken broth, cinnamon stick, cloves, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid.
- Simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit covered for 5-10 minutes.
- Remove the cinnamon stick and cloves from the rice and stir in the currants and slivered almonds.
- Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the citrus chicken bake with fragrant pilaf hot with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or green beans. Garnish the chicken with chopped herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for added flavor.
Conclusion
The citrus chicken bake with fragrant pilaf is a tasty and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion. With a delicious blend of citrus flavors and fragrant spices, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
So why not give it a try and see for yourself?.