30-Minute Spanish Chicken and Rice: A Quick and Flavorful Meal

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This 30-Minute Spanish Chicken and Rice dish is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken, savory tomatoes, and perfectly cooked rice, this dish brings the taste of Spain to your dinner table. Follow this guide to create a delicious Spanish Chicken and Rice meal that will be ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cans (14.5 oz. each) diced tomatoes, drained or 4 cups diced fresh tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green pepper, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup dry long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, cubed
  • 1 tbsp chopped olives (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

  • Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the onion and green pepper (if using). Chop the fresh tomatoes unless you’re opting for canned ones.

Cook the Vegetables

  • Melt Butter: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Sauté Onion and Pepper: Add the finely chopped onion and chopped green pepper to the skillet. Cook over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the vegetables soften.

Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning

  • Add Tomatoes: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes or fresh diced tomatoes.
  • Season: Add the salt and garlic powder, stirring to combine. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down and release their juices.

Add the Rice and Broth

  • Add Rice: Stir in the dry long-grain rice, ensuring it is well coated with the tomato mixture.
  • Add Broth: Add the chicken broth and stir to mix. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
  • Top of Form
  • Bottom of Form

Cook the Rice

  • Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Mix from time to time to avoid any sticking.

Add the Chicken and Olives

  • Add Chicken: Stir in the cooked, cubed chicken and chopped olives (if using). Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly warmed and the flavors have melded together.

Serve

  • Fluff Rice: Fluff the rice with a fork to ensure it is evenly mixed.
  • Serve Hot: Serve the Spanish Chicken and Rice hot, garnished with additional olives or fresh herbs if desired.

Conclusion

This 30-Minute Spanish Chicken and Rice is a quick and easy meal that packs a lot of flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender chicken, savory tomatoes, and perfectly cooked rice for a satisfying and delicious dinner. Enjoy the rich flavors and quick preparation of this Spanish-inspired dish. Happy cooking!