Effortless Mediterranean One-Pot Chicken & Rice

Prepare for a culinary delight today with this incredible One Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice recipe. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and rich flavors to your table with minimal effort.

I have a special fondness for the Mediterranean marinade used in this recipe, as it masterfully infuses the chicken with an array of fragrant and deep spices. The combination of chicken and rice always reminds me of my childhood, a time when my mom’s kitchen was filled with the aroma of her delicious chicken and rice creations. Perhaps you recall some of my earlier favorites, such as the Curried Chicken and Rice Casserole or the hearty Southwestern Chicken and Rice Casserole. There’s an undeniable comfort in a wholesome meal that marries tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked rice.

This particular One Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice recipe is one I prepare frequently for my own family. I’ve found that the flavors deepen and improve overnight, making the leftovers even more delicious the next day. So, feel free to prepare a larger batch and enjoy this savory dish throughout the week!

You might also recognize some of the other fantastic recipes I’ve crafted this year featuring Smart Chicken. Among my personal favorites are the Yogurt Marinated Chicken, the vibrant Margarita Grilled Chicken, the incredibly easy Air Fryer Mediterranean Chicken Thighs, the decadent Sun-dried Tomato Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts, and the authentic Chicken Souvlaki Recipe. Each of these highlights the versatility and quality of chicken in diverse culinary applications.

Essential Ingredients for Your Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

Let’s take a closer look at the simple yet powerful ingredients that come together to create this incredible dish. While this section provides an overview, you can find precise measurements and detailed instructions in the complete recipe card further down the page. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the authentic Mediterranean flavors we’re aiming for.

• Chicken: For this recipe, we specifically use chicken thighs. Their inherent tenderness and rich flavor truly shine when marinated and slow-cooked. You have the flexibility to use either bone-in or boneless chicken thighs, but do keep in mind that opting for bone-in might require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are thoroughly cooked through. For the best results, consider using high-quality chicken like Smart Chicken to ensure exceptional taste and texture.
• Rice: While white rice is generally recommended for its quicker cooking time and ability to absorb flavors, you can certainly experiment with other grains. Brown rice or even quinoa would work beautifully, offering a different texture and nutritional profile. Just remember that alternative grains will likely alter the cooking duration, so adjust accordingly.
• Lemons: Fresh lemons are indispensable in Mediterranean cuisine, and this dish is no exception. Both lemon juice and strategically placed lemon slices are used to impart a bright, zesty, and refreshing citrus note that cuts through the richness of the chicken and spices, elevating the overall flavor profile.
• Marinade: The heart of this Mediterranean delight is its aromatic marinade. It’s a carefully balanced blend of ground coriander, earthy cumin, vibrant turmeric, sweet paprika, and a hint of warming cinnamon. This combination of spices is what creates the deep, complex, and comforting Mediterranean flavor that we all adore, transforming simple chicken into an extraordinary culinary experience.
• Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add a delightful tang and sweetness, along with moisture, creating a rich base for the rice to cook in. They also contribute a beautiful color and a hint of acidity that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• Fresh Spinach: Stirring in fresh spinach towards the end of the cooking process adds a boost of nutrients and a lovely, vibrant green color. It wilts down beautifully, integrating seamlessly into the rice and chicken without overpowering the other flavors.
• Garlic and Onion: These aromatic staples form the foundational layer of flavor for the dish. Sautéing minced garlic and diced sweet onion creates a fragrant base that permeates every component, building depth and complexity from the very beginning.
• Chicken Broth: Essential for cooking the rice and ensuring the dish remains moist and flavorful, chicken broth adds an extra layer of savory depth. Using a high-quality broth, like Smart Chicken Bone Broth, can make a significant difference in the final taste.
• Feta Cheese and Fresh Parsley: These are the finishing touches that bring the dish to life. Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty, tangy creaminess, while fresh chopped parsley provides a burst of herbaceous freshness and a pop of color, making the meal visually appealing and even more delicious.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

Creating this flavorful One Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for a delicious meal:

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Marinade for the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine all the dry spices for your Mediterranean blend: coriander, cumin, turmeric, sweet paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix them well to create a fragrant spice rub. Take your chicken thighs (Smart Chicken brand is highly recommended for its quality) and place them in a medium bowl or a large ziplock bag. Drizzle two tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken, then toss until each piece is thoroughly coated. Now, add about half of the prepared spice mixture to the chicken, ensuring every piece is evenly covered with the marinade. This crucial step infuses the chicken with deep, authentic Mediterranean flavors. Once coated, refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. You can even prepare this the night before for maximum flavor and an even quicker weeknight cook.

Allowing the chicken to marinate for the recommended time significantly enhances the depth of flavor. This step is key to tender, aromatic chicken that truly embodies the Mediterranean spirit. For busy individuals, prepping the chicken the night before means even less work on a busy weeknight.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Sear the Chicken

In a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, add the remaining two tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and diced sweet onion. Sauté for about two minutes, until the aromatics are fragrant and slightly softened. Next, carefully place the marinated chicken thighs into the hot skillet. Cook them for approximately three minutes on each side, aiming for a beautiful golden-brown sear. This searing step locks in the juices and develops a rich crust, adding another layer of flavor and texture to the chicken. Once seared, transfer the chicken pieces to a plate and set aside temporarily.

Step 3: Combine Rice and Remaining Ingredients in the Pot

With the skillet still on the heat, add the uncooked white rice, chicken broth (Smart Chicken Bone Broth adds extra richness), the freshly squeezed juice from one lemon, drained diced tomatoes, and the fresh spinach. Stir all these ingredients together thoroughly, making sure the spinach is submerged under the rice and broth, which helps it cook evenly. Once everything is well combined, gently nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pot, placing them on top of the rice mixture. This ensures the chicken finishes cooking while infusing the rice with its savory juices.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection and Garnish

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Once the oven is ready, cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 35 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavorful broth and the chicken to cook through. After 35 minutes, carefully remove the cover. Continue to cook for another 10 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed, the rice is perfectly tender, and the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy for food safety. Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven. For a beautiful presentation and an extra burst of flavor, garnish generously with fresh lemon slices, chopped fresh parsley, and crumbled feta cheese. Serve hot and enjoy this wholesome, delicious one-pot meal!

Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers

One of the best things about this One Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice is how well it holds up as leftovers. To store, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it ideal for meal prepping throughout your week.

When you’re ready to reheat, you have a couple of convenient options. For individual servings, the microwave works perfectly; simply heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If you’re reheating a larger portion, or prefer a more even warmth, you can gently heat it in the oven. Place the desired amount in an oven-safe dish, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out, cover loosely with foil, and bake at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. The flavors truly deepen, making those next-day meals a real treat!

Why This One Pot Meal Is a Must-Try

This One Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. One-pot meals are celebrated for their minimal cleanup and streamlined cooking process, but this dish goes beyond convenience. It delivers a wholesome, balanced meal packed with lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the rice, and a bounty of vitamins from the spinach and tomatoes. The robust Mediterranean spices not only tantalize the taste buds but also offer various health benefits. It’s truly a complete meal in one pan, perfect for busy individuals and families seeking nourishing, delicious dinners without the fuss.

Embracing the Mediterranean Diet with This Recipe

The Mediterranean diet is renowned for its health benefits, focusing on fresh, whole foods, healthy fats, and lean proteins. This One Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice fits perfectly within these principles. It features olive oil as its primary fat, fresh vegetables like spinach and tomatoes, zesty lemon, and flavorful herbs and spices. Chicken thighs provide a delicious source of protein, while rice offers sustained energy. Incorporating meals like this into your diet is a flavorful way to enjoy the advantages of this healthy eating pattern, known for supporting heart health, promoting longevity, and providing essential nutrients. It’s a vibrant, wholesome dish that nourishes both body and soul.

Tips for Success & Variations

Achieving the perfect One Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice is simple with a few helpful tips:

• Rice Consistency: If your rice isn’t as tender as you’d like after the suggested cooking time, simply add a quarter cup more broth, cover, and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. Different types of rice and even stovetops can affect liquid absorption.
• Chicken Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees both safety and optimal texture.
• Spice Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the quantity of spices in the marinade to suit your palate. Love a little more heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes would be a wonderful addition.
• Add More Vegetables: This recipe is incredibly versatile! Consider stirring in other quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers (red or yellow for sweetness), zucchini, or artichoke hearts during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
• Herb Power: Don’t limit yourself to parsley for garnish. Fresh dill, mint, or oregano would also provide a lovely aromatic finish and enhance the Mediterranean profile.
• Grain Alternatives: While white rice is specified, brown rice or farro can be used, but note that they will require more liquid (broth or water) and a longer cooking time. Quinoa is another excellent, quicker-cooking option if you prefer a different texture and nutritional boost.
• Creamier Finish: For an extra layer of richness, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt after the dish finishes cooking, just before serving.

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5 from 3 votes

One Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

By Julia Jolliff

Prep: 15 minutes mins

Cook: 45 minutes mins

Total: 1 hour hr

Servings: 4

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One Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice is the perfect weeknight family meal. Chicken thighs are marinated in a warm Mediterranean marinade and then paired with rice, warm spices, diced tomatoes, spinach, lemon slices and garnished with feta cheese and fresh herbs. You are going to love this filling, healthy Mediterranean meal!

Ingredients

• 1 package of Chicken Thighs, {between 2-2.5 pounds}
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 1/4 cups Smart Chicken Bone Broth
• 2 lemons, one juiced and one sliced
• 1 – 15 ounce can of diced tomatoes, drained
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small sweet onion, diced
• 1 cup of fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese

Mediterranean Spice Rub:

• 2 teaspoons coriander
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the coriander, cumin, turmeric, sweet paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper for the spice rub.
2. Place chicken in a medium bowl or large ziplock bag. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then toss to coat well. Add half of the spice mixture to the chicken and toss again to evenly coat.
3. Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to develop.
4. In a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the skillet and cook for 3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a nice sear. Transfer the seared chicken to a plate.
6. Add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, lemon juice from 1 lemon, diced tomatoes, spinach, and the remaining spice mixture to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring the spinach is submerged under the rice and broth. Place the seared chicken back into the pot on top of the rice mixture.
7. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175°C). Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or foil and cook in the oven for 35 minutes.
8. Remove the cover and continue to cook for another 10 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed, the rice is tender, and the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74°C). Remove from heat and garnish with fresh lemon slices, chopped fresh parsley, and crumbled feta cheese before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 4g, Calories: 455kcal, Carbohydrates: 50g, Protein: 12g, Fat: 24g, Saturated Fat: 6g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g, Monounsaturated Fat: 13g, Trans Fat: 0.02g, Cholesterol: 44mg, Sodium: 1080mg, Potassium: 373mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 4g, Vitamin A: 1676IU, Vitamin C: 40mg, Calcium: 164mg, Iron: 3mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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