Italian Chicken With Rice
A flavorful Italian-inspired chicken and vegetable dish featuring tender marinated chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory gravy served over rice, perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in Italian dressing overnight.
- Dice chicken into 1 to 2-inch cubes.
- Saute the chicken in the marinade dressing until fully cooked.
- Add diced carrots and broccoli florets to the pan.
- Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally until the chicken is cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Drain the marinade into the pan and add cornstarch mixed with water.
- Stir over low heat until the gravy thickens.
- Serve the chicken and vegetables over hot cooked rice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic or onions when sautéing the chicken. If you're out of Italian dressing, a mix of olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs can work as a substitute. Adjust the vegetable mix according to your preference; bell peppers or zucchini can add variety. For a healthier option, use skinless chicken breasts and brown rice instead of white rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Italian Chicken with Rice alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or a light antipasto platter can complement the dish beautifully. For a more substantial meal, pair with Risotto Milanese for a delightful Italian-inspired feast. Leftover chicken can also be used in wraps or salads for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water to keep it moist, cover, and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Chicken With Rice contains roughly 782 calories, with 14g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value) and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of chicken besides breasts?
Yes, you can use thighs or drumsticks, but cooking times may vary. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption. Thighs can add more flavor and moisture to the dish.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the Italian dressing is gluten-free and substitute cornstarch with a gluten-free thickener like arrowroot powder or tapioca starch. Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free option.
What can I do if the gravy is too thick?
If your gravy thickens too much, simply stir in a little more water or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Remember to season again if you add more liquid, as it may dilute the flavor.
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).