Portuguese Parmesan Chicken with Tomato Rice

Portuguese Parmesan Chicken with Tomato Rice is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of baked Parmesan-coated chicken breasts and a flavorful tomato rice that’s sure to satisfy. The crispy chicken, infused with a blend of garlic, paprika, and Parmesan cheese, pairs beautifully with the savory, slightly spicy tomato rice. This meal is perfect for a family dinner, as it’s quick to prepare yet full of flavor, offering a satisfying balance of proteins and carbohydrates.

With its savory crust on the chicken and the vibrant, seasoned tomato rice on the side, this dish is a comforting yet light take on traditional comfort food. The best part about this recipe is that it doesn’t require many ingredients but delivers a lot of taste. You’ll appreciate how simple it is to prepare, with minimal prep and easy-to-follow steps. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or make a weeknight dinner for your family, Portuguese Parmesan Chicken with Tomato Rice is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines two incredible flavors: crispy Parmesan chicken and a zesty, flavorful tomato rice. The chicken’s crispy exterior gives way to a tender interior, while the rice is infused with the rich taste of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, making it the perfect accompaniment to the main dish. It’s a one-two punch of flavor, texture, and nutrition, without being overly complicated. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe, easily adjusted to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. The recipe is also easy to scale up for larger gatherings, making it a great option for any occasion.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Breadcrumbs
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Cooked rice
• Diced tomatoes
• Onion
• Garlic
• Dried oregano
• Red pepper flakes
• Olive oil

Variations

• Spice it Up: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the tomato rice.
• Herb Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme, basil, or parsley to add different flavors to the rice or chicken.
• Cheese Variety: You can substitute Parmesan with Romano or Pecorino for a different cheese flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian alternative.

How to Make the Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking the chicken.
2. Prepare the Parmesan Mixture: In a bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken: Coat each chicken breast in the Parmesan mixture, ensuring it’s evenly covered.
4. Bake the Chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
5. Make the Tomato Rice: While the chicken is baking, heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
6. Add the Tomatoes and Rice: Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Add the cooked rice and stir until everything is well combined and heated through. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve: Place the Parmesan chicken on a plate and spoon the tomato rice next to it. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Ensure Even Coating: When coating the chicken in the Parmesan mixture, make sure each breast is evenly covered for a uniform, crispy texture.
• Check the Chicken’s Internal Temperature: For perfectly cooked chicken, check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic will provide a stronger, more fragrant flavor than pre-minced garlic.
• Control the Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes in the tomato rice to your preferred level of heat. You can also add fresh chili if you like extra spice.

How to Serve

Serve Portuguese Parmesan Chicken with Tomato Rice alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. This dish is also perfect with a glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the flavors of the Parmesan and tomato. The rice is filling on its own, so there’s no need for heavy sides—just something light and refreshing to balance the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove. Add a splash of water or broth to the rice when reheating to keep it moist.

Freezing: Both the chicken and the tomato rice freeze well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly in the oven or on the stovetop.

Reheating: To reheat the chicken, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. For the rice, reheat in a pan with a small amount of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook than breasts.
2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
   Yes, brown rice is a great alternative, though it may take longer to cook, so make sure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the pan.
3. Can I make the rice ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the tomato rice in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat it when ready to serve.
4. Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that the hot sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free.
5. Can I make this recipe without breadcrumbs?
   If you prefer to avoid breadcrumbs, you can use crushed cornflakes or another crispy alternative for the coating.
6. Can I skip the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor?
   Absolutely! You can leave out the red pepper flakes or adjust the quantity to your desired spice level.
7. What can I serve this dish with?
   Serve it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even garlic bread to round out the meal.
8. Can I add vegetables to the rice?
   Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the rice for extra nutrition and flavor.
9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prep the chicken and rice in advance and store them in the fridge. Bake the chicken and reheat the rice when ready to serve.
10. How do I know when the chicken is done?
    Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Conclusion

Portuguese Parmesan Chicken with Tomato Rice is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines crispy, Parmesan-coated chicken with savory, aromatic tomato rice. It’s simple to prepare, delicious, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. With its vibrant flavors and comforting textures, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Try it out today for a meal that’s sure to impress!

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