One-Pan Tomato Basil Chicken
A quick and flavorful one-pan dish combining rice, tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, prepare Rice-A-Roni mix as package directs, except simmer 10 minutes.
- Stir in cooked chicken, dried basil, broccoli florets, and chopped tomato.
- Cover and continue to simmer 5 to 10 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
- Sprinkle with shredded Mozzarella cheese before serving, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the cooked chicken in Italian dressing before adding it to the dish. If you don't have broccoli, feel free to substitute with green beans or spinach. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. To enhance the dish, a splash of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This One-Pan Tomato Basil Chicken pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve over cooked pasta or quinoa. A glass of white wine or iced tea complements the flavors beautifully. Consider serving alongside a side of roasted vegetables for a nutritious balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One-Pan Tomato Basil Chicken contains roughly 594 calories, with 38g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (76% of the Daily Value), calcium (66% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1513mg per serving (66% 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 fresh basil instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh basil for a more vibrant flavor. Generally, use about three times the amount of fresh basil as dried, so roughly 3 teaspoons of chopped fresh basil would be appropriate for this dish.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Additionally, opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the Rice-A-Roni mix to keep the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the One-Pan Tomato Basil Chicken. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave or stove until heated through.
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).