$pent Millennial

If you are like me, by the end of the month you are looking around your kitchen to figure out what to throw together. This recipe came together during one of those times when I needed to make something quick and satisfying with what I had on hand. I was staring at a box of Zataran’s Cilantro Lime Rice and a few odds and ends in the fridge, and I decided to get creative. What started as a simple throw-together meal turned into a new favorite in my house. Here’s how you can make it too:

Ingredients:

• 1 Box Zataran’s Cilantro Lime Rice
• ½ White Onion (Chopped)
• Butter (About 2 Tbsp)
• 2 Tbsp Flour
• 2 Cups Greens (e.g., spinach, kale)
• 2 Cups Chicken (I use plant-based)
• ½ Cup Powdered Parmesan Cheese
• ½ Cup Shaved Parmesan Cheese
• 2 Slices of Provolone Cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice: Follow the instructions on the box of Zataran’s Cilantro Lime Rice. While the rice is cooking, start on the rest of the dish.
2. Sauté the onion: In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and season to taste. Cook until the onions become translucent, stirring occasionally.
3. Thicken the sauce: Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour and stir to combine. This will help thicken the sauce.
4. Add the chicken and greens: Add the chicken (make sure it’s thawed if you’re using frozen) and greens to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and the greens begin to wilt.
5. Make the cheese sauce: Pour in 2 cups of whole milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add any additional seasoning to taste. Once the sauce begins to boil, remove the skillet from heat and stir in both the powdered and shaved Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
6. Combine the rice and sauce: Once the rice is fully cooked, mix it into the creamy cheese sauce, making sure everything is well combined.
7. Optional baking step: If you want a thicker texture and a golden crust, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish. Top with the slices of Provolone cheese and bake in the oven at 400°F for 10 minutes.

And that’s it! What started as a quick solution to use up leftover groceries turned into a delicious new favorite in my house. It’s comforting, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for those times when you need to make something from what you have on hand. Give it a try, and it might just become a favorite in your home too!