Chicken Simple
A simple, hearty chicken and rice dish with tomato flavor, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and satisfying family meals with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make sure chicken breasts are clean.
- In a microwave-safe casserole dish, add 2 cups of rice and cover with approximately 2 cups water.
- Place chicken breasts over the rice.
- Spread tomato soup over the chicken.
- Season to taste.
- Cover and microwave on High for approximately 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, try adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the rice before cooking. If you prefer, you can substitute quinoa for the rice for a healthier option. Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a different soup variety can also change the flavor profile; consider cream of mushroom for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a complete meal. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the flavors well. For an added touch, serve with a side of garlic bread or the delightful Beverly Knigh Potatoes to enhance the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help keep the rice moist while reheating. If freezing, consider separating the chicken and rice for better texture upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Simple contains roughly 660 calories, with 31g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (61% of the Daily Value) and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C.
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 will need to adjust the water and cooking time. Brown rice typically requires more water and longer cooking time, so consider cooking it separately or microwaving the dish longer to ensure it's fully cooked.
What can I add to the tomato soup for more flavor?
You can enhance the tomato soup by adding spices like basil, oregano, or crushed red pepper flakes. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can also add depth to the flavor. Feel free to mix in sautéed onions or bell peppers for added texture and taste.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Additionally, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for the rice to maintain flavor. You can also try using a plant-based tomato soup for a completely vegetarian dish.
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).