Description
This Mediterranean Chicken Rice Recipe is a must-try dish! Juicy, seasoned chicken paired with fluffy, flavorful rice infused with Mediterranean herbs and spices—it’s a simple one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely family dinners
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup long-grain rice (like basmati or jasmine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives (sliced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, cumin, and turmeric. - Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes). Remove and set aside. - Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. - Cook the Rice:
Stir in the rice, coating it in the oil and spices. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil. - Simmer:
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. - Add Toppings:
After 15 minutes, add cherry tomatoes, olives, and the cooked chicken back to the pan. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes until rice is fluffy and liquid is absorbed. - Finish:
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Swap chicken breasts with boneless thighs for extra juiciness.
- For vegetarian variation, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
- Add feta cheese crumbles on top for an extra Mediterranean touch.
- Stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for meal prep!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Mediterranean