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This one pan Mediterranean chicken and rice has become my ultimate weeknight dinner solution, combining hearty protein, fragrant spices, and fluffy rice all in a single skillet. The aromatic blend of Mediterranean herbs infuses every grain of rice while the chicken turns perfectly tender with minimal effort.
I first created this dish when trying to impress my inlaws with something that seemed fancy but was actually quite simple. The empty pan at the end of dinner told me everything I needed to know it has been in our regular rotation ever since.
Ingredients
- Rice: Select a good quality long grain or basmati for fluffy grains that won't clump
- Chicken breast: Sliced thinly ensures even cooking and maximum flavor absorption
- Dried herbs and spices: Create an authentic Mediterranean flavor profile without requiring fresh herbs
- Chicken broth: Adds depth to the rice much better than plain water would achieve
- Cinnamon stick and bay leaf: Infuse subtle warmth throughout the dish
- Frozen peas: Add color and nutrition without extra prep work
- Lemon juice: Brightens all the flavors and cuts through the richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Create the Spice Blend:
- Combine all the dried spices and herbs in a small bowl. This Mediterranean spice blend serves double duty first for marinating the chicken then for flavoring the rice. Making extra means you can store it for future meals.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Slice chicken breasts horizontally into thinner cutlets for faster cooking and better marinade absorption. Rub with lemon juice olive oil and spice blend making sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes while you prep other ingredients.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a heavy bottomed skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add marinated chicken pieces without crowding and cook for 2 3 minutes per side. You want a golden crust but don't worry about cooking through completely. Transfer to a plate.
- Build the Flavor Base:
- In the same pan sauté onions in the flavorful oil left behind from the chicken. Cook until translucent and beginning to caramelize around the edges about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant about 30 seconds being careful not to burn it.
- Prepare the Rice:
- Add drained soaked rice to the pan along with more of your spice blend. Toast the rice for about a minute which helps develop nutty flavor and ensures separate grains. Stir continuously to prevent sticking.
- Create the Cooking Liquid:
- Pour in chicken broth scraping up any browned bits from the pan bottom these contain concentrated flavor. Add bay leaf cinnamon stick and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle boil then taste the liquid and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine and Cook:
- Return seared chicken to the pan nestling pieces into the rice. Scatter frozen peas over the surface. Reduce heat to low cover tightly and simmer for 15 20 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the dish rest covered for 10 minutes off heat. This allows moisture to redistribute making the rice perfectly fluffy. Remove cinnamon and bay leaf fluff rice with a fork and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
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The turmeric in this recipe gives the dish its gorgeous golden color but also provides anti inflammatory benefits. I discovered this recipe during a particularly stressful period in my life and the combination of comforting carbs and healing spices became my weekly ritual for selfcare dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Mediterranean chicken and rice keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days making it ideal for meal prep. Store in airtight containers and reheat portions with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. The flavors actually intensify overnight as the spices continue to infuse the rice and chicken.
Customizing Your Dish
Feel free to adapt this recipe based on what you have available. Chicken thighs work wonderfully as a juicier alternative to breasts. For a vegetarian version replace the chicken with roasted chickpeas or cubes of halloumi cheese and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The spice blend remains the cornerstone of authentic Mediterranean flavor regardless of your protein choice.
Serving Suggestions
While this dish stands perfectly on its own I love serving it with a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. The cool crisp vegetables provide refreshing contrast to the warm spiced rice. A dollop of tzatziki or yogurt sauce adds creaminess that complements the aromatic spices beautifully.
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This dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite—it transforms simple ingredients into something spectacular with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish. They add extra juiciness and richness to the flavors.
- → What type of rice works best for this recipe?
Long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine is ideal, as it absorbs the flavors well without becoming sticky.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- → Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. Add them during the sautéing step for best results.
- → Is it necessary to soak the rice before cooking?
Soaking the rice helps to achieve a fluffy texture and reduces cooking time. It's recommended but not mandatory if you're in a rush.