Go Back
+ servings
One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice for Busy Weeknights

This Quick One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice is a flavorful, easy-to-prepare dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Substitute with Italian seasoning if necessary.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Can be swapped with herbes de Provence.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Freshly ground for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Increase amount for a bolder taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Use fresh garlic for stronger flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can give a different flavor profile.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder Omit for less intense color.
For the Chicken and Rice
  • 1 pound Chicken Breasts Thighs or other cuts can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Use fresh lemons for best results.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitute with avocado oil if desired.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely chopped for even cooking.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Freshly chopped enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 cup Rice Basmati or jasmine work well.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be a substitute.
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf Remove before serving.
  • 1 stick Cinnamon Stick Ground cinnamon can be used if preferred.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Substitute with corn or any preferred vegetable.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • fine-mesh strainer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, combine dried thyme, oregano, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, salt, paprika, and turmeric. Stir these spices together until well blended.
  2. Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice, then add the prepared seasoning mix. Toss everything to ensure the chicken is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. While the chicken marinates, rinse the rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. After rinsing, soak the rice in warm water for about 30 minutes, then drain thoroughly.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Add the marinated chicken pieces, cooking them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary and toss in finely chopped onions. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add freshly chopped garlic, stirring for another 30 seconds.
  6. Stir the soaked and drained rice into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Mix in a portion of the remaining seasoning and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  7. Pour in chicken broth and add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and the remaining lemon juice. Bring to a gentle boil.
  8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with frozen peas, stirring gently. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  9. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes. Gently fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure to let the chicken marinate for optimal flavor absorption. Use a tight-fitting lid for best cooking results with rice.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!