Sizzling in the pan, the aroma of herbs and spices dances through the kitchen, promising a comforting meal that is both hearty and vibrant. One Pan Mediterranean Chicken And Rice is a deliciously simple dish that takes just 30 minutes to prepare and cook. The one-pan method locks in flavor and moisture, making every bite of chicken succulent and every grain of rice perfectly tender.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious yet easy to make. It’s also an excellent option for meal prep, as leftovers store beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy chicken seasoned with aromatic herbs.
- Flavorful rice that absorbs all the spices.
- Minimal cleanup with just one pan to wash.
- Quick cooking time makes weeknight meals easy.
What You’ll Need
Gather all the ingredients before you start.
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 breast, sliced (gives you 4 pieces)
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 4 tsp of the seasoning
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 of chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-inch cinnamon
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
Use fresh herbs for more flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken breast can be replaced with thighs.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Jasmine rice is a great substitute for regular rice.
- Lemon juice can be swapped with white wine vinegar.
How to Make It
Follow these steps for a delicious meal.
Prep the chicken
Combine the sliced chicken with lemon juice, olive oil, and 4 tsp of the seasoning in a bowl. Let it marinate while you prepare the other ingredients for better flavor.
Sauté the onion
Heat 1 tsp of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it turns translucent and fragrant.
Add the garlic
Stir in the finely chopped garlic and cook for another minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish.
Cook the chicken
Push the onion and garlic to the side, then add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they start to brown, turning halfway through.
Add the rice
Stir in the rinsed rice, mixing well with the chicken and onion. This allows the rice to soak up the flavors of the pan.
Pour in the broth
Add the chicken broth, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and additional seasoning if desired. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Simmer the dish
Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent sticking.
Add the peas
After 15 minutes, remove the lid and stir in the frozen peas. Check the rice for doneness; simmer longer if necessary.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, can freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes for better flavor infusion.
- Use a non-stick pan to prevent the rice from sticking.
- Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain steam.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a dollop of tzatziki for extra creaminess.
- Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
