Name: One Pan Tomato Basil Chicken & Rice
Ingredients: 4 Chicken Thighs (Skinless, Boneless): Chicken thighs are the star protein of this dish, and for good reason. They offer a richer, more succulent flavor compared to chicken breasts due to their higher fat content. Boneless, skinless thighs are incredibly convenient for one-pan cooking as they cook quickly and evenly without the hassle of bones or skin. When selecting chicken thighs, look for plump, firm pieces that are pink in color and free of any bruises or discoloration. Opt for air-chilled chicken if available, as it tends to be less watery and more flavorful. If you prefer chicken breasts, you can substitute them, but be mindful that they cook faster and can become drier. You might need to reduce the cooking time slightly and ensure they are not overcooked.; 1 Cup Rice (White or Brown): Rice forms the comforting carbohydrate base of this meal, soaking up all the delicious tomato and basil-infused broth as it cooks. Both white and brown rice work beautifully in this recipe, offering slightly different textures and nutritional benefits. White Rice: White rice, such as long-grain or Basmati, cooks relatively quickly and results in a fluffy, tender texture. It’s a classic choice for one-pan dishes and absorbs flavors exceptionally well. For this recipe, long-grain white rice is a versatile and readily available option. Basmati rice, with its slightly nutty aroma and delicate texture, can also be used for a more fragrant dish.; Brown Rice: Brown rice, a whole grain, offers a nuttier flavor, chewier texture, and higher fiber content compared to white rice. If you’re looking to boost the nutritional value of your meal, brown rice is an excellent choice. However, brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. If using brown rice, you may need to increase the cooking time by approximately 10-15 minutes and potentially add a little more chicken broth to ensure it cooks through properly and becomes tender. Ensure you use long-grain brown rice for the best results in this one-pan method.; 2 Cups Diced Tomatoes (Canned or Fresh): Tomatoes are the heart and soul of this dish, providing a vibrant acidity, sweetness, and juicy texture that complements the chicken and basil perfectly. You have the flexibility to use either canned or fresh tomatoes, depending on your preference and availability. Canned Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are a pantry staple and an incredibly convenient option. They are typically picked at peak ripeness and canned immediately, preserving their flavor and nutrients. Choose good quality canned diced tomatoes, preferably those with no added salt or sugar. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes can add a smoky depth of flavor to the dish for an extra layer of complexity.; Fresh Diced Tomatoes: When tomatoes are in season and at their peak flavor, using fresh diced tomatoes can elevate the dish to another level. Opt for ripe, flavorful tomatoes such as Roma, plum, or vine-ripened tomatoes. Peel and dice them before adding them to the pan. If using fresh tomatoes, especially during off-season, you might consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste to enhance the tomato flavor and deepen the color of the sauce.; 1 Onion (Chopped): Onions form the aromatic base of countless dishes, and this recipe is no exception. They provide a savory depth of flavor that builds a foundation for the other ingredients to shine. Yellow or white onions are excellent choices for this recipe due to their mild, versatile flavor. When chopping the onion, aim for uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Sautéing the onion at the beginning of the recipe softens its sharpness and releases its sweetness, creating a flavorful starting point for the dish.; 3 Cloves Garlic (Minced): Garlic is another essential aromatic ingredient that adds a pungent, savory note to the dish. Its bold flavor complements the tomatoes and basil beautifully. Fresh garlic is always preferred for its intense flavor. Mince the garlic finely to ensure it disperses evenly throughout the dish and infuses its flavor into the chicken and rice. If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, you can substitute it with garlic powder, but fresh garlic provides a much more vibrant and authentic flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if substituting.; 2 Cups Chicken Broth: Chicken broth is the liquid component that cooks the rice and creates a flavorful sauce that coats the chicken and rice. It adds moisture, depth of flavor, and helps to bring all the ingredients together. Chicken Broth Options: You can use store-bought chicken broth or homemade chicken broth. Low-sodium chicken broth is a healthier option, allowing you to control the salt content of the dish. If you want to make this dish vegetarian or vegan, you can easily substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. Vegetable broth will provide a lighter, slightly sweeter flavor profile while still creating a delicious and flavorful base for the rice and tomatoes.; 1 tsp Dried Basil (or a handful fresh basil): Basil is the signature herb that gives this dish its distinctive Mediterranean aroma and flavor. Its sweet, slightly peppery notes perfectly complement the tomatoes and chicken. Dried Basil vs. Fresh Basil: Both dried and fresh basil can be used in this recipe, but they offer slightly different flavor profiles and should be used in different quantities. Dried basil is more concentrated in flavor, so a teaspoon is sufficient for this recipe. Add dried basil earlier in the cooking process to allow its flavor to fully infuse the dish. Fresh basil, on the other hand, has a brighter, more vibrant flavor. If using fresh basil, use a generous handful (about ¼ cup packed) and add it towards the end of cooking or as a garnish to preserve its fresh flavor and bright green color. If using fresh basil as a garnish, chiffonade or roughly chop it before sprinkling it over the finished dish.; Salt and Pepper (to taste): Salt and pepper are fundamental seasonings that enhance the flavors of all the other ingredients. Salt brings out the natural flavors and balances the acidity of the tomatoes, while pepper adds a subtle warmth and complexity. Season generously with salt and pepper at various stages of cooking – when seasoning the chicken, when sautéing the onions and garlic, and again towards the end of cooking to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.; 2 tbsp Olive Oil: Olive oil is the cooking fat used in this recipe. It adds richness, flavor, and helps to sauté the onions and garlic and brown the chicken. Extra virgin olive oil is a healthy and flavorful choice, adding a fruity and slightly peppery note to the dish. You can also use regular olive oil or another neutral cooking oil like avocado oil or canola oil if preferred.

Ingredients

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4 Chicken Thighs (Skinless, Boneless): Chicken thighs are the star protein of this dish, and for good reason. They offer a richer, more succulent flavor compared to chicken breasts due to their higher fat content. Boneless, skinless thighs are incredibly convenient for one-pan cooking as they cook quickly and evenly without the hassle of bones or skin. When selecting chicken thighs, look for plump, firm pieces that are pink in color and free of any bruises or discoloration. Opt for air-chilled chicken if available, as it tends to be less watery and more flavorful. If you prefer chicken breasts, you can substitute them, but be mindful that they cook faster and can become drier. You might need to reduce the cooking time slightly and ensure they are not overcooked.

1 Cup Rice (White or Brown): Rice forms the comforting carbohydrate base of this meal, soaking up all the delicious tomato and basil-infused broth as it cooks. Both white and brown rice work beautifully in this recipe, offering slightly different textures and nutritional benefits.
- White Rice: White rice, such as long-grain or Basmati, cooks relatively quickly and results in a fluffy, tender texture. It’s a classic choice for one-pan dishes and absorbs flavors exceptionally well. For this recipe, long-grain white rice is a versatile and readily available option. Basmati rice, with its slightly nutty aroma and delicate texture, can also be used for a more fragrant dish.
- Brown Rice: Brown rice, a whole grain, offers a nuttier flavor, chewier texture, and higher fiber content compared to white rice. If you’re looking to boost the nutritional value of your meal, brown rice is an excellent choice. However, brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. If using brown rice, you may need to increase the cooking time by approximately 10-15 minutes and potentially add a little more chicken broth to ensure it cooks through properly and becomes tender. Ensure you use long-grain brown rice for the best results in this one-pan method.

2 Cups Diced Tomatoes (Canned or Fresh): Tomatoes are the heart and soul of this dish, providing a vibrant acidity, sweetness, and juicy texture that complements the chicken and basil perfectly. You have the flexibility to use either canned or fresh tomatoes, depending on your preference and availability.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are a pantry staple and an incredibly convenient option. They are typically picked at peak ripeness and canned immediately, preserving their flavor and nutrients. Choose good quality canned diced tomatoes, preferably those with no added salt or sugar. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes can add a smoky depth of flavor to the dish for an extra layer of complexity.
- Fresh Diced Tomatoes: When tomatoes are in season and at their peak flavor, using fresh diced tomatoes can elevate the dish to another level. Opt for ripe, flavorful tomatoes such as Roma, plum, or vine-ripened tomatoes. Peel and dice them before adding them to the pan. If using fresh tomatoes, especially during off-season, you might consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste to enhance the tomato flavor and deepen the color of the sauce.

1 Onion (Chopped): Onions form the aromatic base of countless dishes, and this recipe is no exception. They provide a savory depth of flavor that builds a foundation for the other ingredients to shine. Yellow or white onions are excellent choices for this recipe due to their mild, versatile flavor. When chopping the onion, aim for uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Sautéing the onion at the beginning of the recipe softens its sharpness and releases its sweetness, creating a flavorful starting point for the dish.

3 Cloves Garlic (Minced): Garlic is another essential aromatic ingredient that adds a pungent, savory note to the dish. Its bold flavor complements the tomatoes and basil beautifully. Fresh garlic is always preferred for its intense flavor. Mince the garlic finely to ensure it disperses evenly throughout the dish and infuses its flavor into the chicken and rice. If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, you can substitute it with garlic powder, but fresh garlic provides a much more vibrant and authentic flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if substituting.

2 Cups Chicken Broth: Chicken broth is the liquid component that cooks the rice and creates a flavorful sauce that coats the chicken and rice. It adds moisture, depth of flavor, and helps to bring all the ingredients together.
- Chicken Broth Options: You can use store-bought chicken broth or homemade chicken broth. Low-sodium chicken broth is a healthier option, allowing you to control the salt content of the dish. If you want to make this dish vegetarian or vegan, you can easily substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. Vegetable broth will provide a lighter, slightly sweeter flavor profile while still creating a delicious and flavorful base for the rice and tomatoes.

1 tsp Dried Basil (or a handful fresh basil): Basil is the signature herb that gives this dish its distinctive Mediterranean aroma and flavor. Its sweet, slightly peppery notes perfectly complement the tomatoes and chicken.
- Dried Basil vs. Fresh Basil: Both dried and fresh basil can be used in this recipe, but they offer slightly different flavor profiles and should be used in different quantities. Dried basil is more concentrated in flavor, so a teaspoon is sufficient for this recipe. Add dried basil earlier in the cooking process to allow its flavor to fully infuse the dish. Fresh basil, on the other hand, has a brighter, more vibrant flavor. If using fresh basil, use a generous handful (about ¼ cup packed) and add it towards the end of cooking or as a garnish to preserve its fresh flavor and bright green color. If using fresh basil as a garnish, chiffonade or roughly chop it before sprinkling it over the finished dish.

Salt and Pepper (to taste): Salt and pepper are fundamental seasonings that enhance the flavors of all the other ingredients. Salt brings out the natural flavors and balances the acidity of the tomatoes, while pepper adds a subtle warmth and complexity. Season generously with salt and pepper at various stages of cooking – when seasoning the chicken, when sautéing the onions and garlic, and again towards the end of cooking to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.

2 tbsp Olive Oil: Olive oil is the cooking fat used in this recipe. It adds richness, flavor, and helps to sauté the onions and garlic and brown the chicken. Extra virgin olive oil is a healthy and flavorful choice, adding a fruity and slightly peppery note to the dish. You can also use regular olive oil or another neutral cooking oil like avocado oil or canola oil if preferred.

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, oven-safe pan or skillet over medium heat. Make sure the pan is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become softened and translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Sautéing the onions and garlic first is crucial as it releases their aromatic compounds and creates a flavorful base for the entire dish. Avoid browning the garlic too much, as it can become bitter.

Brown the Chicken: While the onions and garlic are sautéing, season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the onions are softened, push them to one side of the pan and add the seasoned chicken thighs to the pan. Increase the heat slightly to medium-high and sear the chicken thighs for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned. Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor and creates a beautiful color. It also helps to seal in the juices, keeping the chicken moist and tender during cooking. Don’t worry about cooking the chicken through at this stage; it will finish cooking in the broth.

Combine Ingredients and Simmer: Stir in the rice (white or brown, depending on your choice), diced tomatoes (canned or fresh), chicken broth, and dried basil into the pan. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed in the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Simmering ensures that the rice and chicken cook properly and that the flavors meld together beautifully.

Cover and Cook: Once the mixture is simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan tightly with a lid, and cook for 20-25 minutes (for white rice) or 30-35 minutes (for brown rice), or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). It’s important to keep the pan covered during cooking to trap the steam and ensure the rice cooks evenly. Avoid lifting the lid frequently during cooking, as this can release steam and prolong the cooking time.

Fluff and Serve: After the cooking time is complete, remove the pan from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to fully absorb any remaining liquid and become perfectly fluffy. Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Check the chicken to ensure it is cooked through – the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, for a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color. Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful and satisfying one-pan meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: One Normal Portion
Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g