One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Recipe
Looking for a tasty and easy dinner that feels like a Mediterranean getaway? This one-pan chicken and rice recipe is your answer. It’s a healthy meal full of vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients.
Imagine making a dish that tastes like a restaurant’s without the mess. Our recipe combines tender chicken, fragrant rice, and aromatic spices. It takes you on a culinary journey to Greece and Italy’s sunny coasts.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s quick, easy, and healthy. You’ll need just one pan and under an hour to cook. It’s a meal that’s good for you and delicious.
Prepare to enjoy a simple yet exotic meal. It shows that eating well can be easy and fun!
Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools for Mediterranean Chicken
To make a true Mediterranean chicken dish, you need the right ingredients and tools. Italian cooking is all about simplicity and fresh ingredients. These elements turn simple meals into unforgettable dishes.
Fresh Mediterranean Ingredients
Choosing top-notch ingredients is key for a tasty Mediterranean chicken. Your list should include:
- Ripe, fresh tomatoes for a real tomato basil sauce
- Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Crisp veggies like bell peppers and zucchini
Spice Blend and Seasonings
The secret to this dish is its aromatic spice blend. Important seasonings are:
- Dried oregano
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
- Sea salt and black pepper
Pro tip: Briefly toasting whole spices can make their flavors stronger. This adds depth to your garlic bread crumbs.
Required Cookware and Equipment
For this Mediterranean chicken, you’ll need:
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
“Great cooking starts with great tools and fresh ingredients” – Mediterranean Chef Wisdom
Recipe card
Find the perfect weeknight dinner with this easy, tasty Mediterranean-inspired dish. It turns grilled chicken breast into a flavorful meal. It’s simple to make and looks great on the table.
Kitchen Essentials
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients Lineup
- 2 grilled chicken breast, sliced
- 1½ cups long-grain rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 diced onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- Fresh herbs (oregano, parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
- Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant
- Add rice, toasting for 2-3 minutes
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer
- Add sliced grilled chicken breast
- Cover and cook for 18-20 minutes
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving
Pro tip: For a one-pot pasta variation, simply substitute rice with your favorite pasta and adjust liquid accordingly!
One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Recipe
Making a bruschetta chicken pasta recipe turns a simple dinner into a special healthy meal. This dish combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and bright seasonings. It’s a complete and fulfilling dinner.
The key to a great Mediterranean chicken is in the flavors. Start with top-quality chicken breasts and dry them for a crispy outside. Seasoning is key – mix dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika for a true Mediterranean taste.
- Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Use extra virgin olive oil for authentic flavor
- Toast rice before adding liquid for enhanced taste
- Cook chicken until internal temperature reaches 165°F
For a bruschetta twist, top the dish with fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze. This adds a restaurant-quality touch that pleases the eyes and taste buds.
Pro tip: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain maximum juiciness and flavor.
This recipe is also very flexible. You can change it by using quinoa instead of rice or adding veggies like roasted bell peppers or zucchini. Each change keeps the Mediterranean flavor while making dinner exciting and healthy.
Conclusion
This one-pan Mediterranean chicken and rice recipe turns a simple dinner into a feast. It brings the lively tastes of Italian food right to your home. With little prep and cleanup, you’ll make a dish that looks and tastes like it’s from a fancy restaurant.
The recipe’s charm is in its easy steps and flexibility. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a quick meal or wanting to try Mediterranean cooking. The dish’s mix of tender chicken, fragrant spices, and fluffy rice is loved by all.
Learning this recipe opens doors to more tasty meals. You’ll feel more confident in cooking delicious, healthy dishes that impress. The skills and flavors you learn can be used in many other dishes, encouraging you to keep exploring Mediterranean cooking.
We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Share your stories, try new herbs and spices, and enjoy making a meal that brings people together. Your kitchen is about to become a doorway to Mediterranean flavors!
FAQ
Can I substitute rice with another grain in this Mediterranean chicken recipe?
Yes, you can! Swap rice for quinoa, couscous, or orzo. Each one changes the texture but keeps the Mediterranean taste.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs or skip them. Make sure all seasonings and ingredients are gluten-free. You can use almond meal or gluten-free panko for crunch.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Mediterranean chicken and rice?
Good sides include Greek salad, roasted veggies, tzatziki, hummus, or cucumber and tomato salad. They enhance the Mediterranean taste and add nutrition.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken and prep ingredients the night before. It’s quick to assemble, great for busy nights. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! It keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Store in airtight containers and reheat gently. Add chicken broth when reheating to keep it moist.
How can I make this recipe more spicy?
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or harissa to the seasoning. Top with sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more flavor and moisture. They might take a few minutes longer to cook than breasts.
What’s the best way to get a crispy chicken exterior?
For crispiness, pat the chicken dry, use a hot pan with olive oil, and don’t overcrowd. Let it get golden brown before moving it for a crispy crust.

one-pan chicken and rice recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
- Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant
- Add rice, toasting for 2-3 minutes
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer
- Add sliced grilled chicken breast
- Cover and cook for 18-20 minutes
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving
