Tomato Chicken And Rice
A hearty and flavorful chicken and rice dish featuring tomatoes, basil, and cheese, perfect for family dinners and those craving comfort food with a savory twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, saute rice-vermicelli mix as the package directs.
- Stir in 2 cups water, chopped chicken, and contents of the seasoning packet; bring to a boil over high heat.
- Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in chopped tomato and dried basil.
- Cover and simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice before cooking. For a healthier twist, substitute brown rice for Rice-A-Roni. If you're short on time, precooked chicken can also be used. Fresh basil can replace dried for a more vibrant taste. Pair this dish with a side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tomato Chicken and Rice hot, garnished with additional cheese and fresh basil if desired. It pairs well with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or with a side of roasted zucchini, which complements the chicken beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent drying out and microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little broth if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Chicken And Rice contains roughly 474 calories, with 20g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1066mg per serving (46% 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 different types of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various rice types such as brown rice or jasmine rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and water ratio accordingly. Cooking times vary based on the rice type, so check package instructions for best results.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version. Use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the rice to enhance the flavor while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh tomatoes?
If fresh tomatoes aren't available, canned diced tomatoes can be a great substitute. Just drain them before adding to the dish. You can also use sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor, which pairs well with the dried basil.
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).