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One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

This One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice is a quick, easy, and flavorful dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes! Tender chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and fragrant herbs come together in a single skillet for a comforting, no-fuss meal. It’s infused with classic Mediterranean ingredients like garlic, lemon, oregano, and cumin—perfect for busy weeknights.

⭐️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Made in one pan—less cleanup!
  • Ready in 30 minutes
  • Full of bright Mediterranean flavors
  • Perfect for meal prep or a quick family dinner
  • Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or seasonings

🌿 Ingredients

Mediterranean Seasoning Mix

  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder

Chicken Marinade

  • 2 chicken breasts, sliced in half (4 pieces total)
  • 2 tsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • 4 tsp of the prepared seasoning

For the Chicken and Rice

  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
  • 2¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1-inch cinnamon stick
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
  • Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

🍗 Instructions

1. Prepare the Seasoning

Mix together all the spices in a small bowl and set aside.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Rub chicken breasts with 2 tsp lemon juice, 2 tsp olive oil, and 4 tsp of the seasoning mix. Let it marinate for 30 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

3. Sear the Chicken

In a heavy-bottom skillet, heat 2 tsp of oil over medium heat. Sear the marinated chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly golden. (It doesn’t need to be fully cooked.) Set aside.

4. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, sauté onions until soft. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

5. Add Rice and Seasoning

Stir in the soaked and drained rice along with 4 tsp of the seasoning mix. Cook for 1 minute to toast the rice lightly.

6. Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in chicken broth, add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and lemon juice. Scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Bring to a boil.

7. Finish Cooking

Add peas if using. Return chicken to the pan, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15–20 minutes or until the rice has absorbed the liquid. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 10 minutes.

8. Garnish and Serve

Fluff rice with a fork and garnish with chopped coriander leaves. Serve with a fresh salad on the side.

💡 Tips for Success

  • Marinate the chicken for max flavor and tenderness.
  • Follow the rice-to-liquid ratio for best results. For 1 cup of basmati rice, 2¼ cups of liquid works well.
  • Cover the pan tightly while cooking. If you don’t have a lid, use foil.
  • Let the rice rest for 10 minutes after cooking to finish steaming and fluff beautifully.
  • Adjust the seasoning mix to suit your spice level.

❓ FAQs

Can I use brown rice?
Yes! Just remember it takes longer to cook and needs more liquid.

What are the key Mediterranean flavors?
Olive oil, lemon, garlic, cumin, turmeric, oregano, and thyme give this dish its signature taste.

How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer—chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).

What goes well on the side?
Try Chickpea Salad, Tzatziki, Tomato-Cucumber Salad, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Can I use a different cut of chicken?
Yes! Thighs, drumsticks, or tenders all work. Just adjust cooking time.

Can I add veggies?
Absolutely—zucchini, carrots, bell peppers, or spinach are great additions.

🧀 Variations

  • Add chopped spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.
  • Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving for a creamy, tangy finish.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Let cool before refrigerating.
  • Reheat: Add a splash of water and warm on the stovetop or microwave. Stir occasionally until heated through.
  • Check for spoilage: If it smells off or looks questionable, discard immediately.

💬 Tried It?

If you make this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice, let us know! Leave a rating and comment below—we love hearing from you.

Got a question? Email me directly at [email protected] and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can!

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