One Pot Caprese Chicken and Rice
A one-pot chicken and rice dinner made with tomatoes, basil pesto, balsamic vinegar, mozzarella cheese, and tender chicken inspired by classic Caprese flavors.
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Ingredients
One Pot Caprese Chicken and Rice
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
398 ml canned diced tomatoes (14 oz can) or 1 1/2 cups fresh diced tomatoes
1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon basil pesto, optional
1 cup long grain white rice
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook until lightly browned.
- Add garlic, salt, basil, and pepper.
- Cook for 1 minute.
- Add tomatoes, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and pesto.
- Bring to a simmer.
- Rinse rice and add it to the skillet.
- Stir well and reduce heat.
- Cook for 10 minutes.
- Stir, cover, and cook another 5–10 minutes until rice is tender.
- Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Cover and let sit for 3–5 minutes until cheese melts.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Fresh tomatoes can replace canned tomatoes with additional broth adjustments.
- The recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- The dish can be made ahead and frozen.
- Nutritional Information Disclaimer:
- Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary depending on the ingredients and quantities used.
This One Pot Caprese Chicken and Rice combines the fresh flavors of a classic Caprese dish with the comfort of a hearty chicken and rice dinner. Tender chicken pieces, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil pesto, balsamic vinegar, and melted mozzarella come together in one skillet for a flavorful meal that is ready in about 30 minutes.
Cooking everything in one pot allows the rice to absorb the savory chicken broth, tomato juices, and Italian-inspired seasonings while creating a satisfying dinner with minimal cleanup. It is a practical recipe for busy weeknights when you want a complete meal made with simple ingredients.
Recipe at a Glance
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: Not provided
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken and rice recipe combines convenience with fresh Caprese-inspired flavors.
Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup simple.
The rice absorbs the flavors of tomatoes, broth, balsamic vinegar, and basil pesto.
Chicken adds protein and makes the dish filling enough for a complete meal.
Mozzarella cheese creates a creamy, cheesy finish.
The recipe comes together quickly, making it useful for busy evenings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the One Pot Caprese Chicken and Rice
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
398 ml canned diced tomatoes (14 oz can) or 1 1/2 cups fresh diced tomatoes
1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon basil pesto, optional
1 cup long grain white rice
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Easy Substitutions
Chicken Breast
Chicken breast works well for this recipe, but other boneless chicken cuts can also be used. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the pieces.
Tomatoes
Fresh diced tomatoes can replace canned tomatoes. When using fresh tomatoes, increase the chicken broth to 1 3/4 cups and use a similar amount of chopped tomatoes.
Crushed tomatoes can also be used, although they may create a thicker and saucier texture.
Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella creates the classic Caprese-style finish. Other melting cheeses can be used, but the flavor will be different.
Rice
Long grain white rice is used in this recipe. Other rice varieties may require adjustments to cooking time and liquid amounts.
How to Make One Pot Caprese Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on most sides.
The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage because it will continue cooking with the rice.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Add minced garlic, salt, dried basil, and black pepper.
Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Base
Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and basil pesto if using.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Add the Rice
Rinse the rice using a large mesh strainer.
Add the rice to the skillet and stir well to combine.
Rinsing helps remove excess starch and can help create a better rice texture.
Step 5: Cook the Rice
Reduce heat to medium-low.
Simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir the mixture, then cover and continue cooking for another 5–10 minutes until the rice is tender.
Step 6: Finish With Cheese
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top.
Cover the skillet and let it sit for 3–5 minutes until the cheese melts.
Serve warm.
Tips for the Best Caprese Chicken and Rice
Cut chicken pieces into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
Rinse the rice before adding it to help improve texture.
Allow the rice to absorb the flavors without rushing the simmering process.
Let the cheese melt with the lid on for a smooth finish.
Use fresh tomatoes when available for a brighter flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Rice Rinse
Unrinsed rice can release extra starch and affect the final texture.
Cooking Chicken Too Long Before Adding Rice
Chicken only needs light browning at the beginning because it continues cooking later.
Using Too Much Liquid
Adding extra liquid without adjusting the rice can create a texture that is too soft.
Stirring Too Frequently During Cooking
Excessive stirring can affect how the rice cooks and absorbs liquid.
Variations
Extra Vegetable Caprese Chicken Rice
Add vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra color and texture.
Creamy Caprese Chicken Rice
Add extra cheese or a creamy ingredient for a richer version.
Chicken Thigh Caprese Rice
Use boneless chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor.
Spicy Caprese Chicken Rice
Add red pepper flakes or a spicy seasoning blend for heat.
What to Serve With One Pot Caprese Chicken and Rice
This dish works well as a complete meal but can also be served with:
Garlic bread
Green salad
Roasted vegetables
Steamed broccoli
Fresh herbs
A simple vegetable side can add freshness alongside the cheesy rice dish.
How to Store One Pot Caprese Chicken and Rice
Prepare the recipe completely, cover, and refrigerate leftovers.
The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
How to Reheat One Pot Caprese Chicken and Rice
To reheat, add a splash of broth and warm covered on the stovetop over medium heat.
You can also add cheese on top and bake until heated through.
How to Freeze One Pot Caprese Chicken and Rice
This recipe can be made ahead and stored in the freezer.
Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Make Ahead
This chicken and rice recipe can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
Reheat gently and add a little broth if needed to restore the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Caprese chicken?
Caprese chicken combines ingredients inspired by the classic Caprese combination of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes. Fresh tomatoes can be used with adjustments to the chicken broth amount.
Can I use another type of rice?
Yes, but cooking time and liquid requirements may need to be adjusted.
Can I make this recipe ahead?
Yes. The recipe can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
Why is this called a one pot recipe?
The chicken, rice, tomatoes, seasonings, and cheese are all prepared together in one skillet.
