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Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Brown the Meat
Add the chicken (or your choice of meat) to the pan, and cook until browned on all sides, about 7-10 minutes.
3. Add the Liquid and Rice
Once the meat is browned, add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and rice to the pan. Stir to combine. Season with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pan and let it cook on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Check periodically to ensure the rice doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
5. Serve
Once everything is cooked, give the dish a final stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. If you like a little extra heat, feel free to add some hot sauce on top!
Tips for Making Nana’s Recipe Just Right
1. Use Quality Meat
While you can use any meat for this dish, I recommend using bone-in chicken thighs for the most flavor. The bones help infuse the dish with a richer taste. If you’re using a different protein, just make sure to cook it until it’s well-browned to enhance the flavor.
2. Don’t Skip the Seasonings
Southern cooking is all about layering flavor, so make sure to use the paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper generously. These simple seasonings will make the dish burst with flavor, giving it that Southern twist.
3. Keep the Rice Tender
To get perfect rice, keep the lid on tightly during the simmering process. The steam helps the rice cook evenly without drying out or burning.
4. Make it Your Own
While this is my Nana’s original recipe, you can easily make it your own by adding your favorite veggies, spices, or even a little cheese for creaminess. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your tastes.
Why This Recipe Will Become Your Favorite
I can’t stress enough how much this dish has meant to me and my family over the years. It’s not just about the food—it’s about tradition, comfort, and bringing everyone together. My Southern Nana’s recipe is a timeless classic that’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and guaranteed to make your family gather around the table with smiles.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s heartwarming and delicious, look no further. This is the one that will become a favorite in your household too. And trust me, once you try it, you’ll agree that nothing trumps my Southern Nana’s recipe!
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