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Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

Mediterranean Chicken and Rice: A Quick Flavorful Feast

This Mediterranean Chicken and Rice is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with fluffy rice and vibrant spices.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts can substitute with chicken thighs or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist
  • 2 teaspoons Olive Oil can replace with canola or avocado oil
For the Rice
  • 1 cup Rice jasmine or basmati rice work best
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth vegetable broth for vegetarian option
For the Aromatics
  • 1 piece Onion shallots can be used for milder taste
  • 3 cloves Garlic fresh garlic is always a good choice
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas can swap for bell peppers or spinach
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Mediterranean Seasoning use Italian seasoning if you run out
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf remove before serving
  • 1 stick Cinnamon Stick adds warmth without overpowering

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, combine dried thyme, oregano, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, salt, paprika, and turmeric. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
  2. Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Coat the chicken with 2 teaspoons of the seasoning blend, a splash of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil. Let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes.
  3. Rinse 1 cup of jasmine or basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in a bowl of water for about 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and sear for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
  6. Stir in the drained rice and remaining seasoning blend, sauté for 1 minute. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, add lemon juice, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil.
  7. Reduce heat to low, stir in frozen peas. Return browned chicken to the pan, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until rice absorbs broth and is tender.
  8. Remove bay leaf and cinnamon stick before serving. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This dish is customizable with various vegetables and can be made vegetarian-friendly by substituting chicken with chickpeas.

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