Italian Chicken Rice for Two
Transform your weeknight dinners with this hearty and flavorful Italian Chicken Rice for Two, a one-skillet wonder that's perfectly portioned for an intimate meal. Juicy, golden-seared chicken breasts are nestled in a bed of aromatic garlic, onion, and Italian-seasoned rice, simmered to perfection in a medley of chicken broth and diced tomatoes. The dish is finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a creamy, savory touch, and the optional hint of fresh basil adds a burst of color and freshness. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe combines convenience and gourmet flair, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and romantic dinners. Keywords: Italian Chicken Rice, one-skillet meal, easy dinner for two, chicken and rice recipe, quick Italian dinner.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pieces garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside (it won’t be fully cooked yet).
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Pour in the chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine, then add the Italian seasoning and remaining salt and pepper.
Nestle the partially cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and cover again for 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your Italian Chicken Rice for Two!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1745 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 48.3 g | 62% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.4 g | 62% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 316 mg | 105% | |
| Sodium | 4382 mg | 190% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 178.7 g | 65% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.7 g | 24% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.0 g | ||
| Protein | 139.7 g | 279% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 445 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 8.7 mg | 48% | |
| Potassium | 2060 mg | 44% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
