There’s something so comforting about a one-pan dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts nestled in fragrant jasmine rice and a kaleidoscope of colorful veggies. This Mediterranean Chicken and Rice is exactly that kind of magic—simple enough for a busy weeknight, yet bursting with sun-soaked flavors that transport you to a seaside tavern. With just a handful of pantry staples—olive oil, garlic powder, dried herbs—and fresh produce like red bell pepper and cherry tomatoes, you’ll create an elegant meal that looks as good as it tastes. The prep takes only about 15 minutes, and after a quick sizzle on the stovetop, everything bakes away in the oven while you catch up on your favorite podcast or set the table. Before you know it, you have a warm, golden-hued skillet brimming with tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a tangy chorus of olives and sun-dried tomatoes. Nutritious, wholesome, and clocking in at around 450 calories per serving, this dish is a healthful choice for lunch or dinner.
Over time, I’ve found that recipes like this one become go-to favorites because they hit that sweet spot between fuss-free and flavorful. The Mediterranean flavors—bright lemon juice, aromatic oregano and thyme, smoke-kissed paprika—combine in a way that feels sophisticated but doesn’t require mastery of culinary techniques. If you’re looking for an intermediate-level recipe that challenges you just enough to feel accomplished, yet remains approachable for everyday cooking, this is the one. Its one-pan approach means minimal clean-up, too; after a cozy meal with family or friends, you won’t be stuck elbow-deep in dishes. Allow it to rest for about five minutes when it comes out of the oven, and then dig in. I can’t wait to hear how this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice becomes a staple in your kitchen rotation—get ready for all the compliments!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN AND RICE
Every ingredient in this dish plays a starring role, lending unique textures, colors, and flavor notes. From the golden-brown sear on the chicken to the tender grains of rice that soak up every drop of savory broth, each component contributes to a harmonious, satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breasts
Boneless and skinless for convenience, these lean cuts provide tender, juicy protein. When seared, they develop a light caramelization that locks in moisture before baking.
- Olive oil
A heart-healthy fat that helps to brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables. Its fruity, slightly peppery flavor is quintessentially Mediterranean.
- Salt
Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural flavors in both the chicken and rice, ensuring each bite is perfectly balanced.
- Black pepper
Adds a gentle heat and a touch of pungency, rounding out the seasoning blend that dresses the chicken.
- Paprika
Brings a smoky, mildly sweet character and a warm red hue, elevating the visual appeal of the dish.
- Dried oregano
Offers earthy, herbaceous notes reminiscent of sun-drenched Mediterranean hillsides, blending seamlessly with the thyme.
- Dried thyme
Contributes subtle minty and citrus undertones, reinforcing the Mediterranean herb profile.
- Jasmine rice
Fragrant and slightly sticky, these delicate grains absorb the rich chicken broth and meld with the vegetables for a tender, cohesive base.
- Chicken broth
Infuses the rice with savory depth, while also keeping the chicken moist as it roasts in the oven.
- Garlic powder
Provides consistent garlic flavor without adding moisture, ensuring the spice rub clings to the chicken.
- Onion
When sautéed, onions develop sweetness and complexity, forming the aromatic foundation of the rice mixture.
- Red bell pepper
Adds vibrant color, natural sweetness, and a tender crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft rice and chicken.
- Cherry tomatoes
Burst with juice and tang, brightening the dish and adding pops of ruby red sweetness.
- Kalamata olives
Briny and slightly fruity, these olives contribute a bold, savory layer of Mediterranean character.
- Sun-dried tomatoes
Intensely flavored with concentrated tomato sweetness and a chewy texture, they deepen the overall tomato presence.
- Fresh parsley
A final sprinkle of bright, herbaceous freshness that livens up every forkful and adds a splash of green.
- Lemon juice
A squeeze of zesty acidity at the end cuts through the richness, balancing and unifying all the flavors.
HOW TO MAKE MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN AND RICE
From seasoning the chicken to baking the entire dish in one skillet, this method is designed to build layers of flavor while keeping cleanup to a minimum. Follow these steps to achieve tender, well-seasoned chicken atop rice that’s fluffy yet soaked in savory broth and bursting with Mediterranean flair.
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that once the skillet goes in, it maintains an even, consistent heat for perfectly cooked chicken and rice.
2. Prepare the Spice Rub
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, and garlic powder. Combine these spices thoroughly so every pinch tastes balanced. Rub the mixture generously over both sides of each chicken breast—this creates a flavorful crust.
3. Brown the Chicken
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and let them brown undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side. This searing step locks in juices and builds those golden-brown edges you love. Once each side is nicely caramelized, remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and lightly translucent. This step sweeps up the flavorful browned bits left behind by the chicken.
5. Incorporate the Rice
Stir in the jasmine rice, ensuring each grain is well coated with the onion and pepper mixture. This toasting of the rice infuses it with flavor before the broth arrives.
6. Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, distributing them evenly throughout the rice.
7. Return the Chicken
Nestle the browned chicken breasts on top of the rice–vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid or foil, then transfer it carefully to the preheated oven.
8. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the rice is tender. The steam trapped under the lid cooks everything through without drying it out.
9. Finish and Garnish
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and rice, then sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve straight from the pan for a rustic, welcoming presentation.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN AND RICE
After waiting eagerly for that first slice of golden chicken and spoonful of tomato-studded rice, you’ll want your presentation to be just as inviting as the flavors themselves. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or an intimate gathering, these serving ideas will elevate your Mediterranean masterpiece.
- Serve alongside a crisp Greek salad tossed with cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and a lemon-oregano vinaigrette. The refreshing crunch and tangy notes complement the warm, savory skillet.
- Pair with slices of warm, crusty bread or pita pockets. Use them to scoop up the rice and soak up any leftover pan juices—nothing goes to waste, and every bite is blissful.
- Top individual portions with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and a sprinkling of crumbled feta cheese. The creamy, salty feta adds another layer of Mediterranean authenticity and richness.
- Offer a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping. Its cool, garlicky cucumber yogurt brightens the dish and adds a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
HOW TO STORE MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN AND RICE
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or saving leftovers for a quick lunch, proper storage will help maintain the vibrant flavors and textures of this dish. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy this Mediterranean favorite long after it comes out of the oven.
- Refrigeration in Airtight Containers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer portions into airtight containers. Store in the coldest part of your fridge for up to 3 days. This prevents the rice from drying out and keeps the olives and tomatoes from becoming soggy.
- Freezing for Longer-Term Storage
For a make-ahead option, place individual servings in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Squeeze out excess air, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Gentle Reheating Methods
To reheat without sacrificing moisture, sprinkle a few drops of water over the rice before microwaving on medium power in 1-minute intervals. Alternatively, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.
- Separate Sauces or Garnishes
If you’ve prepared extra tzatziki, lemon wedges, or fresh parsley, store them in small, separate containers. Add these just before serving to preserve their bright flavors and textures.
CONCLUSION
Every time I pull that skillet out of the oven, I’m reminded why this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice has earned a permanent spot in my recipe repertoire. The combination of tender, spice-rubbed chicken breasts resting on a bed of jasmine rice that’s soaked in savory broth is downright irresistible. With vibrant pops of cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and chewy sun-dried tomatoes, each forkful feels like a mini celebration of Mediterranean cuisine. The finishing splash of lemon juice and sprinkle of fresh parsley ties everything together, creating a balanced dish that’s both comforting and refreshingly bright. Best of all, this is a one-pan meal that delivers big on flavor without leaving you with a mountain of dishes.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder or bookmark it for easy access the next time you’re in need of a show-stopping yet simple dinner. You can also find a FAQ below to help troubleshoot any questions you might have while preparing the dish. If you give this recipe a try, let me know how it turns out in the comments! I’m always here to answer questions, hear your variations, or help you perfect the timing and flavors. Happy cooking!
Mediterranean Chicken and Rice
Description
This Mediterranean Chicken and Rice features juicy chicken breasts, fragrant jasmine rice, and colorful veggies, all baked together in a savory broth for a one-pan meal that's bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, thyme, and garlic powder. Rub this spice mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts.
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In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and brown them on each side for 3-4 minutes. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
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Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, sautéing for about 3 minutes until they soften.
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Stir in the jasmine rice, ensuring it is well coated with the onion and pepper mixture.
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Add the chicken broth to the skillet, bringing it to a simmer. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
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Place the browned chicken breasts back in the skillet on top of the rice mixture. Cover the skillet, transferring it to the preheated oven.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
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Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. Squeeze the lemon juice over the top of the chicken and rice.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Note
- This dish can be prepared with boneless, skinless chicken thighs if preferred.
- For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Substitute brown rice for a healthier alternative, though cooking time may need to be adjusted.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to vary the vegetables based on preference or seasonal availability, such as adding zucchini or artichokes.
