Basil Chicken With Rice
Basil Chicken With Rice offers a hearty, comforting meal featuring tender chicken, aromatic basil, and flavorful tomatoes, all cooked with rice and peas. This quick, one-pot dish is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering satisfying flavors with minimal fuss and a touch of spice for a delightful taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-quart saucepan over high heat, bring the chicken broth, stewed tomatoes, minced garlic, and crushed dried basil to a boil.
- Add the cooked, cubed chicken, uncooked rice, frozen peas, and hot pepper sauce to the boiling mixture.
- Return to a boil, then remove from heat.
- Cover the saucepan and let stand for 5 minutes or until most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the garlic in olive oil before adding the liquids. You can substitute any leftover cooked chicken for the cubed chicken to save time. If fresh basil is available, use it instead of dried for a more vibrant taste. Adjust the hot pepper sauce to your spice preference, or omit it for a milder dish. This recipe can also be adapted with other proteins or vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Basil Chicken with Rice alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, pair it with crusty bread or explore other chicken recipes like Easy Grilled Chicken for a varied menu. This dish can also be garnished with fresh basil or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the rice to prevent it from drying out. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil Chicken With Rice contains roughly 792 calories, with 25g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), iron (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2406mg per serving (105% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook. Ensure you check the package instructions for the best results, as it may require more broth or water and a longer standing time.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you want a creamier texture, you can also add a splash of heavy cream at the end.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrition and flavor. This way, you can enjoy a hearty, plant-based meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).