Shredded Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Rice

This savory shredded chicken dish is simmered in a robust tomato sauce, served with fluffy white rice and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick, wholesome, and full of flavor.
• Perfect for meal prep and family dinners.
• Balanced with protein, carbs, and aromatic spices.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Canned tomatoes (crushed or diced)
• Tomato paste
• Olive oil
• Ground cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Chicken broth
• Cooked white rice
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges

directions

1. Sear chicken in olive oil until golden. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic. Add tomato paste, spices, and canned tomatoes.
3. Return chicken to the sauce and simmer until tender.
4. Shred chicken with forks and stir into the sauce.
5. Serve over rice with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add black beans or corn to the sauce.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a faster version.
• Substitute white rice with quinoa or brown rice.

storage/reheating

• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth.
• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, reduce simmering time and just let it heat through in the sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mildly spiced; you can increase the heat with chili flakes or jalapeños.

Can I use fresh tomatoes?

Yes, but cook longer to break them down into a sauce.

What rice pairs best?

White rice, jasmine, or basmati all work well.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer uncovered to reduce liquid, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken.

Should I cover while simmering?

Partially cover to retain moisture while allowing sauce to reduce.

Can I use tomato sauce instead of paste and diced tomatoes?

Yes, but adjust liquid levels and seasoning accordingly.

How do I add more depth of flavor?

A splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity.

Can I serve this as tacos?

Yes, the shredded chicken makes a great taco filling or burrito stuffing.

Conclusion

Shredded chicken in tomato sauce with rice is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or efficient meal prep.

Shredded Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Rice

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A hearty and flavorful dish made with tender shredded chicken simmered in a savory tomato sauce and served over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Simmered
• Cuisine: Latin American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
• Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Place the chicken into the sauce and pour in chicken broth. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Remove the chicken and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
6. Simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

• For a spicier version, add chili flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce.
• Use rotisserie chicken to save time—just simmer briefly in the sauce to warm through.
• This dish stores well and is great for meal prep.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate with rice
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 95mg