Italian Chicken And Rice
Italian Chicken and Rice is a flavorful baked dish combining tender chicken, seasoned rice, and melted cheese, infused with classic Italian herbs. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a hearty, comforting meal with a cheesy, savory profile that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Stir together water, rice, tomatoes, Velveeta cheese, onion, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Top with chicken pieces; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and remaining Italian seasoning.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until chicken is tender.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before baking. If you don’t have Velveeta cheese, you can substitute with cream cheese or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for more nutrition. Adjust the Italian seasoning to your taste for a more robust flavor, especially if you're a fan of Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Chicken and Rice dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also goes well with steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. For a comforting side, consider serving it alongside Parmesan Pasta And Spinach for a delightful combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Chicken And Rice contains roughly 165 calories, with 10g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 584mg per serving (25% 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 substitute brown rice, but be aware that it requires a longer cooking time. Increase the water to 2 cups and bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Adjust the liquid as needed to ensure everything cooks evenly.
What can I use instead of chicken?
If you're looking for a substitute for chicken, try using turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that the cooking times are adjusted accordingly based on the protein you choose to use.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
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).