Mediterranean Sunshine Chicken Rice a Flavorpacked Onepan Wonder

Mediterranean Chicken and Rice OnePan Sunshine Dinner

By Emily TorresSeptember 6, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook: Dreaming of Sunshine?

Ever feel like you need a bit of sunshine in your life, even when it's grey outside? This Mediterranean Chicken and Rice recipe is like a holiday on a plate! Honestly, it’s bursting with fresh flavors, and it’s so easy even I can’t mess it up.

I promise!

Brief Overview: A Taste of the Med

This One Pot Mediterranean Chicken dish is inspired by the sun-drenched cuisines of Greece and Italy. It's easy, only taking about an hour from start to finish.

The recipe makes enough for 4-6 hungry folks. I've found it's brilliant as a One-Pan Chicken and Rice Dinner

Main Benefits: Good for You & Delicious

This recipe packs a protein punch. It’s also loaded with vitamins from the fresh vegetables. The best part? It's perfect for a weeknight meal, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your table any day of the week.

Plus, you can easily convert this into one of those amazing Mediterranean Dutch Oven Recipes .

Honestly, what makes this recipe special is the simplicity. You get all those amazing Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice flavors without a ton of fuss.

I love it, and I think you will too!

What You Need to Make Sunshine

Here’s what you need to bring this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet to life in your kitchen. Don’t stress if you don’t have every single thing.

There's wiggle room. This Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe is flexible!

Ingredients & Equipment for Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

Okay, so you're itching to make some amazing Mediterranean Chicken and Rice | , right? Let’s dive into what you'll need to create this flavor bomb! Honestly, the ingredients are pretty simple.

The result? Out of this world .

Main Ingredients Breakdown

Here's the shopping list, broken down for you. Trust me, this One Pot Mediterranean Chicken is a game changer.

Chicken Thighs: 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless. Go for thighs, they stay juicy. If they are organic you can rest assured of the quality and taste.
Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60ml) for the marinade, plus 1 tablespoon for the rice. Extra virgin all the way!
Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons . Freshly squeezed is always best, you know?
Garlic: 2 cloves minced for the marinade, 2 cloves minced for the rice.
Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon for the marinade, 1/2 teaspoon for the rice.
Dried Basil: 1/2 teaspoon for the marinade.
Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a kick).
Onion: 1 medium , chopped.
Red Bell Pepper: 1 , chopped. Adds sweetness and crunch.
Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz / 411g) can, undrained. Adds acidity and moisture.
Long Grain Rice: 1 1/2 cups (300g) , rinsed. Rinse until the water runs clear.
Chicken Broth: 3 cups (720ml) , low sodium. This is key for flavor.
Turmeric: 1/4 teaspoon . Secret ingredient alert! It gives a lovely color and a hint of earthiness.
Kalamata Olives: 1/2 cup (75g) , pitted and halved. Adds that salty, briny bite.
Feta Cheese: 1/2 cup (75g) , crumbled.
Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup (15g) , chopped.
Lemon Wedges: For serving!

For the chicken, look for plump thighs that aren't pale. For the olive oil, a good quality extra virgin olive oil can really change the whole One-Pan Chicken and Rice Dinner .

Seasoning Notes for the Win

This is where the magic happens. We're aiming for that classic Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe vibe.

Essential Spice Combo: Oregano + Basil + Garlic = Instant Mediterranean flavor.
Flavor Enhancers: Turmeric adds warmth and color. Don't skip it! I learned this trick from Ottolenghi's Mediterranean Dutch Oven Recipes .
Quick Sub: If you don't have fresh garlic, use garlic powder, but honestly, fresh is always better for this Easy Weeknight Mediterranean Chicken and Rice .

Equipment: Keep It Simple

No need for fancy gadgets for this Mediterranean Chicken Recipes Instant Pot .

Large Bowl: For marinating the chicken.
Large Oven Safe Skillet or Dutch Oven: At least 12 inch diameter. This is crucial. I use my cast iron skillet for that perfect sear.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy.
Cutting Board and Knife: Obvious, right?

Instead of the fancy skillet, a regular skillet you can transfer to the oven will do the trick too.

This Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice will knock your socks off. I still remember when I first attempted a similar recipe in college it was a total disaster! But with this foolproof guide, you'll be golden! This recipe for Mediterranean Chicken Thighs and Rice is an absolute winner! Get ready to impress!

Cooking Method: One-Pan Mediterranean Magic

Honestly, sometimes I just crave sunshine, even if the weather outside is totally rubbish. That's where this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice | comes in.

It's like a mini vacay for your taste buds. We're talking about the One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken experience that is pure comfort food.

But, you know, a healthy comfort food. Let's dive in and make some kitchen magic, shall we?

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

First things first: mise en place . Sounds fancy, right? It just means getting everything prepped and ready to go. Chop your onion, garlic, and bell pepper.

Measure out your rice and broth. Trust me, it makes life SO much easier. Plus, marinate your chicken for at least 15 minutes .

The longer the better for juicy, flavorful chicken! Think about using Mediterranean Chicken Thighs and Rice for an extra succulent experience.

Safety first! Always wash your hands after handling raw chicken.

step-by-step: Let's Get Cooking!

Alright, time to get this show on the road.

Sauté : Get your skillet hot, add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for about 7 minutes until softened.
Rice and Tomatoes : Add your diced tomatoes, rice, broth, oregano, and turmeric. Bring to a simmer.
Chicken Time : Nestle the marinated chicken into the rice mixture. This is where the magic happens for Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet bliss.
Bake : Cover and bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 30- 35 minutes , or until the rice is cooked and the chicken reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .
Rest : Let it rest for 10 minutes before digging in.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Game

Want to make this dish even better ? Here are my secrets. First, don't skip rinsing the rice! It makes it fluffier.

Second, resist the urge to peek while it's baking. That steam is important! Finally, if you are someone looking for Mediterranean Chicken Recipes Instant Pot this one-pan method is perfect.

If you're thinking of a shortcut, marinating overnight is a game changer.

So, there you have it! This Easy Weeknight Mediterranean Chicken and Rice recipe is a total winner. It's packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a cozy night in.

Plus, it's a great way to trick yourself into eating more veggies. Enjoy! You can create some spectacular Mediterranean Dutch Oven Recipes out of this base.

Recipe Notes That Make All The Difference

Right, let's dive into some super useful tips! I've been making this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice dish for ages and have learned a few tricks along the way.

I hope these pointers are helpful to you so you can make this the best One-Pan Chicken and Rice Dinner you have ever tried.

Serving Suggestions: From Skillet to Stunning

Listen, presentation does matter, even if it’s just for your Instagram story. The best way to elevate this One Pot Mediterranean Chicken dish is to spoon it onto a platter, making sure you get a good mix of chicken, rice, and veggies.

A sprinkle of extra feta and fresh parsley is a must! I love to serve mine with a simple Greek salad cucumber, tomato, red onion, and a drizzle of olive oil.

So refreshing! Or, if you're feeling fancy, a dollop of tzatziki. For drinks, a crisp white wine really hits the spot.

Storage Tips: Keepin' It Fresh

Honestly, leftovers never last long in my house but if you're sensible you can store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days .

For longer storage, you can freeze it, but the rice texture might change a bit. It's still tasty, though. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Microwaving works fine, but the best results come from reheating it in a skillet over low heat. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .

Variations: Your Dish, Your Way

One of the best things about this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet is how adaptable it is. I've got a friend who is gluten-free so I prepare it with quinoa instead of rice, and it works a treat.

For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for chickpeas, zucchini, and eggplant. It's super tasty and filling! I also like to change the protein sometimes, and prepare it with chicken tights, to make Mediterranean Chicken Thighs and Rice .

My sister likes her food spicy, so I normally add some red pepper flakes. Play around with it and see what you fancy.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

This Easy Weeknight Mediterranean Chicken and Rice is packed with goodness. It's a great source of protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the rice, and loads of vitamins and antioxidants from the veggies.

Plus, olive oil is a healthy fat, and feta adds calcium. Overall, it's a well rounded meal that's both delicious and good for you.

I’d call it a win-win.

This Mediterranean Chicken and Rice dish isn't just a meal; it's a trip to the Mediterranean on a plate! Have fun with it, experiment, and make it your own.

Don't be afraid to try Mediterranean Dutch Oven Recipes or adapt it for your Mediterranean Chicken Recipes Instant Pot , get in the kitchen and don't be afraid to fail! You've got this, mate! And remember, the best meals are made with love.

.. and a good glug of olive oil!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice | ahead of time? I'm always rushed off my feet!

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken marinade and chop the vegetables ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. Then, when you're ready to cook, just follow the recipe from step 2. Leftovers also taste great the next day, so it’s a winner either way.

My family isn't keen on feta. What else could I use in this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice | recipe?

No worries, mate! If feta isn't your cup of tea, try using crumbled goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor. Halloumi also works well, adding a nice salty and squeaky texture. You could even skip the cheese altogether and just load up on extra fresh parsley.

How do I make sure the rice isn't mushy? I always seem to mess that bit up.

Mushy rice is a common kitchen woe! The key is to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Also, ensure you're using the correct liquid-to-rice ratio (1 1/2 cups rice to 3 cups broth in this case) and avoid lifting the lid during baking, as that releases steam.

If it's still a bit wet at the end, cook it uncovered for a few more minutes.

Can I use different vegetables? I've got loads of courgettes to use up!

Definitely! This recipe is quite flexible. Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Courgettes (zucchinis), eggplant, or even chopped artichoke hearts would be delicious additions.

Just be mindful of the cooking time; some vegetables might need to be added later to prevent them from becoming too soft.

How long does this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice | keep in the fridge?

Properly stored, this dish will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Ensure it's cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly in the microwave or oven before serving. It's perfect for those grab and-go lunches during the week!

Is this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice | recipe healthy?

It certainly leans towards the healthy side! With lean chicken, plenty of vegetables, and olive oil, it's a well balanced meal. You can further reduce the sodium content by using low-sodium chicken broth and being mindful of the amount of feta you add.

Feel free to bulk it up with extra vegetables for an even healthier option. As always, moderation is key!