Do you think a DELICIOUS, quick, budget-friendly meal is impossible? Well, it’s not! This one dish Italian chicken and rice bake is here to save the day.
2cans(14.5oz each) Diced Tomatoes with Basil, Garlic and Oregano (see note)
1 1/2poundsboneless skinless chicken thighs
1cupgrated mozzarella cheese
fresh parsley for garnish, if desired
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350° F.
In a 9x13 baking dish, mix together onion, bell pepper, rice, and Red Gold tomatoes. Stir to combine. Add chicken thighs, pushing them down into the tomato mixture.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for one hour and 15 minutes.
Uncover, stir, cover tightly again and bake for 30-50 more minutes or until rice is tender.
Uncover, add cheese, and bake for 10 more minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve immediately.
Notes
Green bell peppers are typically the most budget-friendly option, but feel free to use your favorite color.
You may also use white rice — this will likely decrease cooking time since it cooks faster than brown rice. Try to avoid short grain brown rice or you’ll find that the rice takes even longer to cook.
If you are using plain canned tomatoes, add a 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano.