Chicken Tomato Rice Recipe

Chicken Tomato Rice is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with aromatic rice, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce. This one-pot meal is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it brings together basic ingredients to create a deliciously satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make a delightful Chicken Tomato Rice, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken Thighs: 6 bone-in, skin-on thighs for maximum flavor.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for sautéing.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, chopped to add depth.
• Onion: 1 large onion, diced for sweetness.
• Bell Pepper: 1 red bell pepper, chopped for color and crunch.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: ⅓ cup (optional) for an extra burst of flavor.
• Rice: 1⅓ cups of long-grain rice, rinsed to remove excess starch.
• Crushed Tomatoes: 14.5 ounces with liquid for a rich base.
• Chicken Broth: 1¾ cups to infuse flavor into the rice.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and dried basil to taste.
• Fresh Basil: A handful for garnish.

These ingredients come together to create a dish that is not only filling but also packed with flavor. Feel free to customize the vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the hot oil. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip them over and cook until browned on all sides. Once done, transfer the chicken to a warm plate and set aside.

Sautéing Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Next, toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your rice.

Combining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the sun-dried tomatoes (if using), rinsed rice, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth into the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients while seasoning with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer; this will allow the rice to absorb all those wonderful tomato flavors.

Baking Time

Once simmering, nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the rice mixture. Cover the skillet tightly with foil and transfer it to your preheated oven. Bake for about 40 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If needed, you can stir in an extra ¼ cup of water if you find that the rice hasn’t cooked fully.

Finishing Touches

After baking, remove the foil and switch your oven settings to broil on medium heat. Broil for an additional 8-10 minutes until the chicken skin is crispy and golden brown. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of freshness.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Tomato Rice

• Choose Bone-In Thighs: Using bone-in chicken thighs enhances flavor and moisture retention during cooking.
• Let Chicken Rest: Allowing salted chicken to rest before cooking helps achieve a crispy skin by drawing out moisture.
• Adjust Liquid as Needed: Depending on your type of rice and pan used, you may need to adjust liquid amounts slightly.
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can be added alongside basil for additional flavor complexity.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Tomato Rice is best served warm right out of the oven. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce left on your plate. For an added touch of elegance, consider serving it with grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

Enjoy this delightful one-pot meal that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite!