One Pan Mediterranean Chicken And Rice

A warm, aromatic kitchen filled with the essence of Mediterranean spices invites you to gather around the table. One Pan Mediterranean Chicken And Rice is a delightful, one-pot meal that takes about 45 minutes to prepare and cook. This recipe achieves incredible flavor with minimal effort, making it a reliable choice for any night of the week.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want a satisfying meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. It can easily be made ahead of time, and leftovers store well in the fridge for several days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It features tender chicken breast infused with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
• The rice absorbs all the savory broth and spices, creating an irresistible texture.
• Everything cooks conveniently in one pan, minimizing cleanup time.
• The dish is versatile and accommodating, allowing for various ingredient swaps.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious meal:

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

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

Note: Use fresh garlic for a stronger flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken breast can be replaced with thighs.
• Brown rice can be used instead of white rice.
• Lemon juice can be substituted with vinegar.
• Mixed vegetables can replace peas for variety.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create the dish.

Prepare the Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine all the seasoning ingredients and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and season with half of the mixed spices. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the soaked rice, and then add the remaining seasoning along with the chicken broth, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer

Once boiling, add the cooked chicken on top and reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Finish with Peas

Remove the bay leaf and cinnamon stick, then gently stir in the frozen peas. Let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 3 months; just make sure it cools completely before freezing.
Reheat: Microwave until heated through, about 2–3 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the rice is soaked for adequate absorption.
• Adjust the seasoning based on personal preference for spice levels.
• Let the dish sit covered before serving for optimal flavor melding.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair it with a fresh Mediterranean salad for a colorful meal.
• Serve with warm pita bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Complement with tzatziki sauce for added creaminess.