Italian Chicken and Rice Stew is the kind of comforting meal that fills your kitchen with warmth and your bowl with flavor. It’s a rustic dish that brings together tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and creamy rice in a rich tomato broth that tastes like it’s been simmering in a Tuscan kitchen all afternoon. Every spoonful delivers the essence of simple, home-cooked Italian comfort food.
The base starts with olive oil, onions, carrots, and celery sautéed until soft and fragrant. Garlic adds its unmistakable aroma, followed by diced tomatoes and a touch of tomato paste for depth. Boneless chicken thighs are the perfect choice here, as they become meltingly tender while cooking and lend a hearty richness to the stew. The rice absorbs all the savory juices as it simmers, creating a creamy texture similar to tomato risotto but with a more rustic feel. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme infuse the dish with that unmistakable Italian character.
As the stew bubbles gently, the flavors meld together beautifully. The chicken becomes juicy and flavorful, while the rice softens and thickens the broth into a cozy, satisfying meal. A handful of spinach or kale can be added toward the end for color and a touch of freshness. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of good olive oil, and you’ll have a meal that feels both hearty and elegant.
Italian Chicken and Rice Stew is perfect for chilly evenings or lazy weekends when you crave something nourishing yet uncomplicated. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or a simple green salad to balance the richness.
To elevate the experience, enjoy it with a glass of Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio or Verdicchio. The crisp, citrusy notes of the wine complement the savory, herby flavors of the stew, creating a perfect harmony between food and drink. Whether you’re cooking for family or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this stew is a beautiful reminder that comfort can be simple, and Italian flavors never fail to bring warmth to the table.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast cut into cubes
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice uncooked
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas thawed
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in rice and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes, bring to a boil.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Stir in peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs, if desired.
Nutrition
I made this last night and it came out perfect! Will definitely make again.
Good but the peas were too mushy. Next time will add them less.
Honestly, I just used canned peas and they were fine. Didn’t have any mushiness at all! Maybe it’s the type of peas?
Yeah, I totally agree! The last time I made it, the peas squished everywhere. Next time, I’m gonna add them in at the end too!
I thought it was bland. I will add more spices next time.
Bland? I loved it! But maybe my taste buds are weird. LOL.
I totally get that! A little extra garlic and some chili flakes can really kick it up a notch.
Yum! This is my new favorite recipe. ❤️
This stew tastes amazing! The flavors are so rich and comforting.
I’m not sure about this one… seems to have too many ingredients. Can I just use rice and chicken?
Delish! Also, my rice didn’t cook all the way, did I add too much broth?
What is chicken broth? Can I use water instead?
10/10! My whole family loved it, even the picky eaters!
I’m so glad to hear that! This stew is a hit with my family too. ❤️
Pretty easy to make but I didn’t have Italian seasoning, used taco instead! Still turned out okay.