The aroma of fresh basil mingling with the rich, warm scent of roasted tomatoes wafts through the air as you prepare to dive into a delightful Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe. Each bite brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a burst of flavors that dance on your palate, making it hard to resist going back for seconds—or thirds!
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests at gatherings. Picture yourself enjoying this comforting dish on a rainy Sunday afternoon or during a vibrant summer barbecue—it’s versatile enough to fit any occasion and tantalizing enough to keep everyone coming back for more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe is incredibly simple, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The flavor profile is a delightful blend of freshness and heartiness that will please even picky eaters
- Its vibrant colors create an eye-catching presentation that elevates any dinner table
- Perfect for meal prep or serving guests, you can easily adapt it based on seasonal ingredients
Ingredients for Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal, but feel free to adjust depending on your crowd size.
Fresh Basil: Look for bright green leaves; they add a fragrant touch that enhances the dish’s flavor.
Long Grain Rice: This type of rice cooks beautifully and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Use high-quality tomatoes packed in juice for the best taste and texture.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings depth to the dish; choose firm cloves for maximum flavor.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still infusing great flavor.
Olive Oil: A splash of extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps sauté the chicken beautifully.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in this scrumptious dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the garlic, measure out your rice and broth, and slice up those fresh basil leaves. Don’t be shy—get everything ready so you can cook like a pro!
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in some olive oil. Once hot, add your seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about six minutes per side until golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook Garlic and Tomatoes
In the same skillet (because who wants extra dishes?), add more olive oil if needed and toss in your chopped garlic. Sauté it until fragrant—about one minute—and then add those glorious canned diced tomatoes along with their juices.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Broth
Stir in the long grain rice next, letting it soak up all those beautiful tomato flavors! Pour in the chicken broth, sprinkle with salt and pepper as needed, then bring it all to a simmer.
Step 5: Return Chicken to Skillet
Nestle those golden-brown chicken breasts back into the skillet with your rice mixture. Cover with a lid and let it simmer away for about twenty minutes until both the rice is tender and chicken cooked through.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Basil
Right before serving, toss in your fresh basil leaves for that vibrant pop of color and taste! Give everything a gentle stir.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your flavorful journey through this delightful Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe!
You Must Know
- This Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook the rice as the sauce simmers. While everything melds together, you can daydream about how impressed your friends will be with your culinary skills.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a twist. Experiment with seasonings such as lemon zest or garlic powder. Toss in veggies like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance your Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe, consider marinating the chicken overnight for deeper flavor
- Always taste your sauce before serving; adjusting seasoning can elevate the dish considerably
- Don’t rush cooking the rice; patience is key to achieving that perfect texture
As I stood in my kitchen, a pot of this Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice bubbling away, I couldn’t help but recall my friend’s face when she took her first bite—it was sheer bliss!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for the Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe?
For this flavorful Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe, gather chicken breasts, uncooked rice, fresh tomatoes, basil leaves, garlic, onion, chicken broth, olive oil, salt, and pepper. These ingredients combine to create a deliciously balanced dish that is both satisfying and healthy. Using fresh basil enhances the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your serving needs or personal taste!
How long does it take to prepare the Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe?
The total preparation time for the Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe is approximately 45 minutes. This includes around 10 minutes of prep work where you chop vegetables and season the chicken. Cooking takes about 35 minutes overall. The dish requires simmering, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring that the rice cooks perfectly. This makes it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Can I make the Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe in advance. Simply cook everything as directed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes it perfect for meal prepping or for busy evenings when you need a quick dinner.
What variations can I make to the Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe?
You can easily customize your Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition. If you want a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños. For a creamier texture, stir in some heavy cream or cheese before serving. These variations allow you to tailor the dish according to your family’s preferences while maintaining its delicious essence.
Conclusion for Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe:
In summary, this Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to please your taste buds. With simple ingredients like chicken, rice, tomatoes, and fresh basil, you can create a wholesome meal in under an hour. The ability to customize this dish adds versatility to your cooking repertoire. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household!
Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Tomato Basil Chicken and Rice is a heartwarming dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant roasted tomatoes all enhanced by aromatic fresh basil. This easy-to-make recipe bursts with flavor in every bite, making it perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. The delightful aroma and beautiful presentation make it versatile for any occasion, from cozy nights to lively barbecues.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups long grain rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by chopping garlic and slicing basil leaves.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté seasoned chicken breasts for about 6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Then add canned diced tomatoes with juices.
- Stir in the long grain rice and pour in the chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper; bring to a simmer.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
