Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice – A Flavorful One-Pot Meal for the Whole Family

This Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice is a hearty, flavorful one-pot meal that combines tender chicken with a rich tomato-basil sauce and fluffy rice. It’s a quick, comforting dinner that’s easy to prepare and packed with classic Italian-inspired flavors. With juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic, this dish is perfect for weeknights when you want something filling and satisfying with minimal cleanup!

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Number of Servings: 4
• Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg

Ingredients List

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – 4 pieces (about 500g / 1 lb)
• Salt – 1 teaspoon (divided)
• Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
• Onion – 1 medium, finely diced
• Garlic cloves – 4, minced
• Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup (150g), halved (or use 1 can diced tomatoes, 14.5 oz / 410g)
• Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons
• Basil – 1/2 cup fresh, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• Chicken broth – 2 cups (480ml)
• White rice – 1 cup (200g), uncooked
• Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
• Parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup (optional, for serving)

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Season and Sear the Chicken
   Season the chicken thighs with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and black pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
   In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Tomato Paste
   Add the cherry tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes if using) and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well, allowing the tomatoes to break down slightly and the paste to caramelize, about 3-4 minutes. This will add a deep, rich flavor to the dish.
4. Stir in the Basil and Rice
   Add the chopped fresh basil, Italian seasoning, and uncooked rice to the pot. Stir everything together to coat the rice in the tomato mixture, which helps infuse it with flavor.
5. Add the Broth and Return the Chicken
   Pour in the chicken broth and stir well. Place the seared chicken thighs back into the pot, nestling them into the rice mixture. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
6. Simmer Until the Rice is Cooked
   Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C / 165°F). Check occasionally and give a quick stir to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
7. Serve and Garnish
   Once the rice is done, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Garnish with additional chopped basil and, if desired, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Culinary Success

• Choose the Right Rice: White rice works best for this recipe, as it cooks quickly and evenly. Avoid using brown rice, as it requires a longer cooking time and additional liquid.
• Adjusting Consistency: If the rice absorbs too much liquid and the mixture feels dry, add a splash of extra chicken broth or water towards the end.
• For Extra Flavor: Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the tomatoes for a slightly tangy and spicy kick.
• Using Chicken Breast: If you prefer chicken breast, cut it into large chunks and reduce the searing time slightly, as chicken breast can cook faster than thighs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish with brown rice?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice requires about 40-45 minutes to cook and may need an extra 1/2 cup of broth.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of dried basil for fresh, but fresh basil adds a brighter flavor. If using dried basil, consider adding a bit more at the end for a fresher taste.

Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the rice may change slightly upon thawing. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

This Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice is a delightful one-pot meal that captures the essence of Italian-inspired flavors in every bite. With juicy chicken, tender rice, and a rich tomato basil sauce, it’s a comforting dinner that’s both easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for busy nights or a cozy family meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and savor the delicious simplicity of this one-pot wonder!