Indulge in a comforting meal with our Tomato Chicken with Vegetable Rice recipe. This dish combines succulent chicken in a rich tomato cream sauce with a side of colorful and nutritious vegetable rice. It’s a perfect family meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. Follow these straightforward steps to create a dinner that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 3 chicken breasts, cut into pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- Olive oil
- Butter
- 100 ml tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup cream
- Fresh dill, for garnish
- For the Rice:
- 1 cup rice
- 360 ml water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- Olive oil
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 red pepper, finely chopped
- 1 cup canned corn, drained
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and a drizzle of olive oil. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil and a bit of butter in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté both red and yellow onions until softened.
- Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- Mix in tomato paste, water, and sugar with the chicken. Bring to a simmer and let cook until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Stir in the cream and let simmer covered on low heat for 12-15 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce is creamy.
- Prepare the Rice:
- Bring water to a boil in a pot, add rice and salt, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook until all water is absorbed.
- In another pan, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and red pepper in olive oil until they are soft.
- Mix in canned corn and combine this vegetable mix with the cooked rice.
- Serve:
- Plate the creamy tomato chicken next to a helping of the vegetable rice.
- Garnish with fresh dill for an added touch of freshness.
Tips for Success
- Marinate for Longer: If time permits, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight to deepen the flavors.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter sauce, substitute half the cream with chicken broth or for more decadence, use full cream.
- Fresh Vegetables: Use fresh corn and other seasonal vegetables when available for the best taste and nutrition.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein necessary for muscle repair and overall health.
- Vegetable Nutrients: The vegetables in the rice provide vitamins and fiber, which are essential for a balanced diet.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil is known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen vegetables?
- Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a convenient and nutritious option when fresh isn’t available.
- What alternatives can I use for cream?
- For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut milk or a creamy oat milk alternative.
- Can this dish be made ahead?
- Yes, both the chicken and rice reheat well. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator and gently reheat when ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Tomato Chicken with Vegetable Rice is a delightful dish that combines the creamy, tangy flavors of the sauce with the wholesomeness of vegetable-packed rice. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or when you need a meal that’s both fulfilling and flavorful. Enjoy this delicious recipe that will keep everyone at the table happy and satisfied!
Read Also: Mushroom and Pepper Rice: An Easy and Delicious Dinner