Indulge in the savory flavors of Italy with our One-Pan Italian Chicken and Rice recipe. This dish combines tender chicken thighs, aromatic herbs, and fire-roasted tomatoes to create a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With just one pan and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious homemade dinner with ease. Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful dish, along with some helpful tips, variations, and keto and low-carb options to suit different dietary preferences.
Ingredients:
- Meat:
- 4 Chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- Produce:
- 3 cloves Garlic
- Fresh parsley leaves
- 1 small Yellow onion
- Canned Goods:
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can Fire-roasted tomatoes
- Condiments:
- 1 tsp Balsamic vinegar
- Pasta & Grains:
- 1 cup Long-grain white rice
- Baking & Spices:
- 1/4 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tsp Dried Italian seasoning
- 1 3/4 tsp Kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes
- Liquid:
- 1 1/2 cups Low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear Chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the skillet. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Sear until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Rice: Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes (with their juices) and balsamic vinegar. Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the flavorful mixture.
- Pour in Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Nestle the seared chicken thighs into the rice mixture, skin-side up.
- Bake: Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Serve: Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve hot. Enjoy your flavorful One-Pan Italian Chicken and Rice!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Use Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are preferred for this recipe as they stay juicy and flavorful during cooking. However, you can use chicken breasts if desired, adjusting the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions and garlic for added flavor and nutrients.
- Make it Spicy: If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the rice mixture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace Rice: Substitute the white rice with cauliflower rice to reduce the carb content and make it keto-friendly.
- Adjust Tomatoes: Use diced fresh tomatoes or sugar-free canned tomatoes to reduce the carb content further.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce Tomato Content: Use half the amount of fire-roasted tomatoes or replace them with diced fresh tomatoes to lower the carb count.
- Increase Protein: Add extra chicken thighs or incorporate cooked shrimp or tofu for additional protein.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used if preferred. However, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs add extra flavor and moisture to the dish.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance? A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components of this dish (such as seasoning the chicken and chopping the vegetables) in advance to save time.
Q: Can I use a different type of rice? A: Yes, you can use brown rice or jasmine rice instead of long-grain white rice. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of rice used.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Elevate your dinner table with the rich flavors of our One-Pan Italian Chicken and Rice recipe. With its tender chicken thighs, aromatic herbs, and fire-roasted tomatoes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with the convenience of cooking everything in just one pan, cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a low-carb option, or simply seeking a delicious and comforting meal, this recipe has you covered. So grab your skillet and get ready to savor the taste of Italy with every bite of this flavorful dish!
