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italian rice

🍚 Italian Rice

This Italian Rice is a savory, colorful side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken, fish, or Italian-inspired entrees. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor from garlic, herbs, and tomato.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1½ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp salt or to taste
  • ÂĽ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish
  • ÂĽ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional

Method
 

  1. Sauté Aromatics:
  2. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add Rice:
  4. Stir in the rice and cook 1–2 minutes to lightly toast it.
  5. Add Liquids and Seasoning:
  6. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and chicken broth. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  7. Cook the Rice:
  8. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  9. Finish:
  10. Fluff rice with a fork. Stir in Parmesan cheese if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Make it cheesy: Add extra Parmesan or mozzarella for a creamy variation.
Add veggies: Bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms can be sautéed with the onion for extra color and flavor.
Use brown rice: Increase cooking time to about 40–45 minutes and add extra ¼ cup broth.
Meal prep: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days — reheat with a splash of broth or water to keep it fluffy.