Italian Chicken and Rice Recipe for Everyone

Name: Italian Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup chopped fresh bell peppers (red, yellow, or green); 1 medium sweet onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

June 23, 2025

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The aroma of Italian Chicken and Rice wafts through your kitchen like an inviting hug from an old friend. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a love story between tender chicken, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices that dance together in perfect harmony.

It’s a chilly Sunday evening, the kind where you want your home to feel warm and cozy. You gather around the table with loved ones as the steam rises from a pot of bubbling goodness. Trust me when I say this meal will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe thirds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful Italian Chicken and Rice recipe is easy enough for weeknights yet impressive for guests.
The symphony of flavors makes it a standout dish at any gathering.
With its vibrant colors and enticing aromas, it’s sure to be a visual feast on your dinner table.
Versatile enough to suit various tastes, this dish can easily accommodate different preferences or dietary needs.

I still remember the first time I served this dish at a family gathering. My cousin nearly did a happy dance after his first bite—a sight I wish I had recorded!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal; feel free to adjust based on your audience’s appetite.
Long-Grain Rice: This type holds its shape well during cooking, providing that perfect fluffy texture.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better flavor control without overwhelming saltiness.
Fresh Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant colors—red, yellow, or green—for a burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Onions: Sweet onions work best here; they add depth without overpowering other flavors.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates the overall taste—don’t skimp on these little flavor bombs!
Dried Oregano: Essential for that Italian flair; it brings warmth and earthiness to the dish.
Dried Basil: Another herb that complements the chicken beautifully while adding lovely aroma.
Pine Nuts (Optional): Toasted pine nuts add crunch but are optional if you’re nut-free.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing the vegetables—it enhances flavor significantly.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate all other ingredients; season generously!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab your favorite large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven.

Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil over medium heat in your skillet. Toss in chopped onions and bell peppers until they turn soft and fragrant.

Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook briefly until you can smell its magic—about one minute should do it.

Brown the Chicken: Push the veggies aside in the skillet and add seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them until golden-brown on each side—around 5 minutes per side works wonders.

Add Rice & Broth: Pour in rinsed long-grain rice along with chicken broth. Mix everything gently while ensuring no rice grains stick to the bottom.

Add Herbs: Sprinkle dried oregano and basil evenly over the mixture. Season with salt and pepper according to taste—don’t forget to stir!

Bake Away! Cover your skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.

Once done baking, let it rest for about 5 minutes before uncovering—this allows flavors to settle nicely. Serve hot with some fresh herbs sprinkled on top if you’re feeling fancy!

Now you have an enticing plate of Italian Chicken and Rice that might just become a staple in your household! Enjoy every bite surrounded by laughter and good company!

You Must Know

This delightful Italian chicken and rice dish combines juicy chicken with fragrant herbs.
The one-pot goodness not only simplifies cooking but also leaves you with minimal cleanup.
Its vibrant aroma and colorful presentation will make any dinner feel festive and inviting.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken for a golden crust, then sauté vegetables while the rice cooks. This sequence ensures that each ingredient shines in flavor and texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or add seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. A sprinkle of fresh parsley can elevate the dish even further.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of broth and microwave until hot.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken ahead of time—this step makes a world of difference.
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly.
Lastly, let it rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in juices.

I remember the first time I made Italian chicken and rice for my family. They devoured it so quickly that I started questioning whether I actually cooked enough!

FAQ

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

You can easily use turkey, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

The entire Italian chicken and rice recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.

Is it possible to make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully without losing flavor.

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