Why Make This Recipe
One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice is a delightful, flavorful meal that is both easy to prepare and full of healthy ingredients. This dish combines tender chicken with aromatic spices and colorful vegetables, making it a great choice for family dinners or meal prepping. Plus, the fact that everything cooks in one pan means less cleanup for you!
How to Make One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
- 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
- 2 chicken breasts (sliced into 4 pieces)
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 4 tsp of the seasoning mix
- 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 low sodium chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp lemon juice (for finishing)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
Directions:
Preparations
- In a bowl, mix together the dried thyme, oregano, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, salt, paprika, and turmeric powder. This will be your seasoning mix.
- In a large pan, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced chicken to the pan and sprinkle with 4 teaspoons of your seasoning mix. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
To Make Mediterranean Chicken and Rice
- In the same pan, add 2 more teaspoons of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they become soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the soaked and drained rice, mixing it well with the onion and garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth, and add the bay leaf and cinnamon stick. Bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the cooked chicken back into the pan. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
- Stir in the frozen peas and the additional teaspoon of lemon juice before removing from heat. Let it sit for a few minutes, then remove the bay leaf and cinnamon stick before serving.
How to Serve One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice
Serve the Mediterranean Chicken and Rice warm. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds color and flavor, elevating the dish.
How to Store One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice
To store leftovers, place the chicken and rice in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice
- Make sure to soak the rice beforehand to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste.
- Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can enhance the flavor and nutrition.
Variation
You can add olives or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra Mediterranean touch. Also, swapping chicken for shrimp makes for a lighter dish that cooks quickly.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require additional cooking time and more liquid.
2. What can I substitute for chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or water in place of chicken broth for a lighter flavor.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients are gluten-free unless you use a specific brand of broth that contains gluten. Always check labels if you have dietary restrictions.
