One Pan Mediterranean Chicken And Rice

A warm, savory aroma fills the kitchen as you sauté the onions and garlic, evoking memories of sun-soaked Mediterranean coasts. One Pan Mediterranean Chicken And Rice brings together tender chicken, fragrant spices, and wholesome rice in a comforting dish that takes just about 45 minutes to prepare. Its beauty lies in the simplicity of making a complete meal in a single pan, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meals when you want something satisfying yet effortless. It can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for an easy lunch or dinner option throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a one-pan meal, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor.
• Perfectly seasoned chicken and rice create a delightful blend of textures.
• Nutrient-dense ingredients like peas and spices offer great health benefits.
• The recipe is quick, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delightful dish:

For the Seasoning

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 4 tsp of seasoning mix

For the Chicken

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced (gives you 4 pieces)
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp olive oil

For the Rice

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic, finely chopped
• 1 cup rice, rinsed and soaked in water for 30 minutes
• 2 and 1/4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1/2 cup frozen peas

Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken breasts can be swapped with thighs for more moisture.
• Use brown rice for a healthier option, adjusting cooking time.
• Fresh herbs can replace dried ones for brighter flavors.
• Any frozen vegetable can substitute peas for variety.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful dish.

Sauté

Heat 2 tsp olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Prepare

In a bowl, combine the spices and seasoning mix. Add lemon juice and sliced chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Brown

Push the onions to the side of the pan and add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, browning the chicken on both sides.

Combine

Stir in the soaked rice, ensuring it is evenly mixed with the chicken and onions.

Add Liquid

Pour in the chicken broth, adding the bay leaf and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Finish

Once the rice is done, stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through. Remove the bay leaf and cinnamon stick before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, portion and seal for long-term storage.
Reheat: Microwave in 2-minute intervals until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the rice is soaked properly for even cooking.
• Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
• Adjust seasoning based on your spice tolerance for a personalized flavor.
• Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving for better texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Complement with a glass of chilled white wine for a complete experience.