Rice with Chicken and Dates

Name: Rice with Chicken and Dates
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 2 carrots; 5 Israeli Medjool dates; 200g shredded cooked chicken; 180g cooked basmati rice; Pink salt; Ground cayenne pepper; Extra virgin olive oil

Rice & pasta

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This rice with dates is one of those go-to meals I make to use up leftover cooked chicken and rice. At home we love sweet and savory combinations, and Medjool dates bring that special touch that pairs so well with shredded chicken and carrots.

I prepare it in a skillet with extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of cayenne, which I adjust depending on how much heat we feel like having. Starting with already cooked basmati rice and chicken, I only need about 25 minutes from prep to table. It's an easy meal for two, ideal for repurposing leftovers into something completely new.

If you like pairing chicken with sweet notes, I recommend my rice with chicken and pineapple; for another day, give the chicken wing rice a try.

Prep: 10 minCook: 15 minServes: 2

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Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you need

2 carrots
5 Israeli Medjool dates
200g shredded cooked chicken
180g cooked basmati rice
Pink salt
Ground cayenne pepper
Extra virgin olive oil

Step by step

Method

1Peel and finely dice the carrots.
2Add them to a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil and sauté gently until soft.
3Meanwhile, pit the Medjool dates and chop them into small pieces.
4Once the carrots begin to turn golden, add the Medjool dates and the chicken, toss well, and let them brown slightly.
5Now add the cooked rice, a pinch of salt, and ground cayenne pepper to taste.
6Stir-fry gently for a couple of minutes so all the flavors meld together.
7All done! Time to enjoy our RICE WITH CHICKEN AND DATES.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use other dates instead of Medjool?

Yes, you can use any other variety, preferably one with a soft texture. Because Medjool dates are on the larger side, adjust the quantity if yours are smaller, and be sure to pit them first.

Are the rice and chicken added raw or cooked?

Both are used already cooked: 180 g of cooked basmati rice and 200 g of shredded cooked chicken. If you're starting from raw ingredients, you'll need to cook them beforehand and factor in that extra time.

Can I make this dish without any spice?

Yes, you can leave out the cayenne pepper without changing anything else in the recipe. I always adjust it to taste; if you're cooking for someone who doesn't enjoy spicy food, you can simply sprinkle it over your own plate before serving.