Go Back
+ servings
One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice for a Family Feast

One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice is a quick, customizable, and comforting dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your dinner table.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Adds earthy flavor; substitute with Italian seasoning if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Provides a warm, herbal note; use fresh oregano for a bolder taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Enhances overall taste; white pepper can be used for a different flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Adds warmth and earthiness; swap for ground coriander for variety.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Contributes depth; fresh minced garlic works well too.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste or use low-sodium options.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds color and mild sweetness; smoked paprika gives a different twist.
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder Adds color and mild bitterness; can be omitted if unavailable.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Brightens up the dish; lime juice is a good substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Essential for marinating and sautéing; another cooking oil can be used instead.
For the Main Dish
  • 2 pounds Chicken Breasts The main protein source; chicken thighs make a good substitute.
  • 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Provides aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is preferred over garlic powder.
  • 1.5 cups Rice The heart of the dish; basmati or long-grain rice works best, with brown rice being a healthier alternative.
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Infuses flavor; replace with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf Adds subtle depth; don't forget to remove before serving.
  • 1 stick Cinnamon Stick Contributes warmth and complexity; ground cinnamon can be used instead.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Add color and sweetness; feel free to exchange for bell peppers or carrots.

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • heavy-bottomed pan

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, combine dried thyme, oregano, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, salt, paprika, and turmeric. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
  2. Slice the chicken breasts into even pieces. In a large bowl, combine chicken with the spice mix, lemon juice, and olive oil. Toss until coated and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Rinse the rice under cold water until clear to remove excess starch. Soak in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
  4. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pan. Add marinated chicken, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until golden-brown, then remove from the pan.
  5. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
  6. Stir the soaked rice into the pan with the onion and garlic, coating the rice with the spices. Sauté for a minute, then add chicken broth, some of the spice mix, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil.
  7. Once boiling, return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice. Add frozen peas, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender.
  8. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 10 minutes to allow flavors to settle. Fluff rice with a fork and remove bay leaf and cinnamon stick before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 12IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Marinate chicken for optimal flavor and rinse rice for fluffiness. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!