Savory Chicken Rice-A-Roni

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Savory Chicken Rice-A-Roni.

1. Step 1

   In a spacious stockpot, combine a whole chicken with chopped celery, carrot, onion, and a bay leaf.

2. Step 2

   Pour in 3 quarts of water and sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of kosher salt.

3. Step 3

   Bring this aromatic blend to a vigorous boil over high heat, then lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the meat effortlessly separates from the bones.

4. Step 4

   Carefully lift the chicken from the pot, allowing the broth to drain back in, and let it cool for 15 to 20 minutes before shredding the meat, discarding the skin and bones.

5. Step 5

   Reserve 2 cups of the shredded chicken for your Rice-A-Roni dish and set aside the remainder for future meals.

6. Step 6

   Return the chicken bones and skin to the pot with the broth, allowing it to simmer for an additional 1 to 2 hours to deepen the flavor.

7. Step 7

   Strain the broth and set it aside for later use.

8. Step 8

   In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.

9. Step 9

   Once melted, add chopped onion and bell pepper, seasoning with a pinch of salt.

10. Step 10

    Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.

11. Step 11

    Toss in 1 cup of broken spaghetti and toast it until it achieves a light golden hue, roughly 3 minutes, letting the onions and peppers caramelize slightly.

12. Step 12

    Stir in 1 cup of rice, ensuring it’s well-coated in the oil and butter.

13. Step 13

    Add black pepper, oregano, cumin, and saffron, mixing thoroughly.

14. Step 14

    Pour in 3 ½ cups of the reserved chicken broth, then add cayenne pepper, garbanzo beans, peas, and the reserved shredded chicken.

15. Step 15

    Bring this delightful mixture to a simmer.

16. Step 16

    Cover the skillet tightly with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it cook undisturbed for 15 minutes.

17. Step 17

    After this time, remove the lid and check the rice; it should be tender.

18. Step 18

    If it needs more time, cover and cook for a few additional minutes.

19. Step 19

    Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for another 10 minutes.

20. Step 20

    Just before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley and cilantro on top, stirring to combine.

21. Step 21

    Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then serve this comforting dish immediately, savoring the rich flavors and aromas that fill your kitchen.