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Chicken and Rice Casserole with Tomatoes and Basil

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Chicken and Rice Casserole with Tomatoes and Basil is a vibrant one-pan dish made with juicy tomatoes, aromatic basil, tender chicken, and fluffy rice. With fresh Mediterranean flavor and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 diced Roma tomatoes)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes. Add tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in chopped basil and remove from heat.
  3. In a large bowl, combine chicken broth, uncooked rice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir in tomato mixture.
  4. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Season chicken with salt and pepper and place on top of the rice mixture.
  5. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  6. Remove foil, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese (if using), and bake uncovered for 15–20 more minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked (165°F) and rice is tender.
  7. Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with additional fresh basil before serving.

Notes

  • To make it vegetarian, omit chicken and substitute with chickpeas or cannellini beans.
  • Use canned diced tomatoes (drained) if fresh tomatoes are not available.
  • For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili when cooking the tomatoes.
  • If using brown rice, add more broth and extend baking time by 15–20 minutes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/chicken-and-rice-casserole-with-tomatoes-and-basil/