Brazilian Chicken and Rice with Olives

My Favorite Weeknight Meal: Brazilian Chicken and Rice

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can sometimes feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and all the other demands on my time, whipping up something elaborate is often out of the question. That's why I've become such a huge fan of recipes that are both flavorful and incredibly easy to prepare. This Brazilian Chicken and Rice with Olives is one of my absolute go-to dishes – it's quick, it's satisfying, and it's always a hit with my family.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, and the cooking process itself is straightforward. There’s something incredibly comforting about the savory, slightly tangy flavor of the chicken and rice, perfectly complemented by the briny olives and zesty orange juice. It's a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup – a definite bonus on busy weeknights!

I often adapt this recipe to whatever I have on hand. Sometimes I add a bit of diced bell pepper or some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor. Other times, depending on my mood and what's in the fridge, I might serve it with a simple side salad, or some crusty bread for soaking up the delicious juices. The versatility of this dish makes it a true staple in our home.

Beyond its practicality, this recipe also holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of family dinners. While my family’s culinary traditions aren’t Brazilian in origin, there's a certain warmth and intimacy associated with gathering around the table to enjoy a simple, homemade meal. This dish captures that essence for me – a sense of community, connection, and delicious, easily accessible food.

The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. The combination of fragrant garlic, juicy chicken, and fragrant rice creates a sensory experience that’s simply irresistible. It's a dish that speaks of warmth and nourishment, and that's precisely what I need after a long day.

But the best part? My kids actually love this dish! Getting them to eat their vegetables is sometimes a battle, but this recipe somehow manages to sneak in some hidden health benefits. The rice provides carbohydrates for energy, the chicken is a good source of protein, and the olives add a dose of healthy fats. It’s a sneaky way to ensure everyone gets a well-rounded and nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.

So, if you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and family-friendly recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, I highly recommend giving this Brazilian Chicken and Rice with Olives a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Add some veggies: Throw in some chopped bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Make it a complete meal: Serve with a simple side salad and some crusty bread.
• Leftovers are great: This dish tastes even better the next day!

Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• Sprinkle chicken lightly with salt and generously with ground black pepper.
• Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add chicken, garlic, and peel; sauté until chicken is lightly browned, about 3 minutes.
• Add 1 cup water and orange juice and bring to boil.
• Mix in rice, seasoning packet, and olives.
• Return to boil.
• Reduce heat to medium-low; cover and cook until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender, about 20 minutes.
• Remove from heat; let stand covered 10 minutes.
• Stir cilantro into rice mixture.
• Transfer to platter.
• Garnish with orange wedges.