One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet is a delightful dish that brings together juicy chicken, fragrant spices, and colorful vegetables in a single, easy-to-clean pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, this wholesome meal captures the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, making it a family favorite that you’ll love to whip up time and again.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to a mountain of dishes; everything cooks beautifully in one skillet.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of herbs and spices creates a mouthwatering experience that transports you straight to the Mediterranean.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and nutritious veggies, this dish is as wholesome as it is delicious.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs or personal taste preferences!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing a delicious Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet is all about using simple yet essential ingredients that enhance the overall flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role in creating this delightful dish.
- Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, they stay tender during cooking and absorb the spices beautifully.
- Olive oil: A staple in Mediterranean cooking, it adds richness and depth to the dish.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings aromatic notes that elevate the entire skillet.
- Onion: A sweet and savory base that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Bell peppers: Adding vibrant color and a slight sweetness, bell peppers are a must for this dish.
- Rice: Long-grain rice works perfectly, absorbing all the flavors while providing a satisfying texture.
- Chicken broth: Using broth instead of water infuses the rice with extra flavor, making every bite delicious.
- Spices: A mix of cumin, paprika, and oregano creates the signature Mediterranean taste.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh, bright finish that complements the rich flavors.
Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Variations for Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider!
- Vegetable Boost: Add in your favorite vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or asparagus for extra nutrition.
- Chicken Alternatives: Swap chicken thighs for breasts or even turkey for a lighter option.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Grain Swap: Use quinoa or couscous in place of rice for a unique texture and taste.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, then add them to the pan. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. Next, add the bell peppers and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
Step 3: Add Rice and Broth
Stir in the rice, mixing it with the vegetables to coat it in the flavorful oil. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Make sure to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Fluff the rice with a fork, and your Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet is ready to serve!
Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet
- Use a Thermometer: Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
- Let it Rest: Allow the skillet to sit covered for a few minutes after cooking for enhanced flavor.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings based on your preference for a unique taste.
- Keep it Covered: Covering the skillet while cooking helps the rice cook evenly and retain moisture.
- Presentation Matters: Serve with a sprinkle of feta cheese for a beautiful finish!
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet
Garnishes
Garnishing your Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet can elevate the dish. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro work wonders, while a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese adds a delightful creaminess and tang.
Side Dishes
This one-pan wonder pairs wonderfully with a side salad, grilled vegetables, or even some warm pita bread. A simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives complements the flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve the skillet directly from the pan on a trivet, allowing everyone to help themselves. Alternatively, plate individual servings and garnish with lemon wedges for a pop of color and zest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
This Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist while reheating.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you will need to adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid accordingly.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet can be made gluten-free by ensuring the broth is gluten-free and using gluten-free spices.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you love or have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I use instead of chicken?
You can substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
How do I know when the rice is done?
The rice is done when it has absorbed all the liquid and is tender to the bite. If needed, add a little more liquid and cook for a few more minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors and textures. I encourage you to gather your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken, fragrant spices, and colorful vegetables, offering a quick, healthy, and customizable meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 lbs Chicken thighs
Cooking Essentials
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 Onion, chopped
Vegetables
- 2 Bell peppers, sliced
Grains
- 1.5 cups Long-grain rice
Liquids
- 3 cups Chicken broth
Spices
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Oregano
Garnish
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, then add them to the pan. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. Next, add the bell peppers and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Add Rice and Broth
Stir in the rice, mixing it with the vegetables to coat it in the flavorful oil. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Make sure to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.
- Combine and Cook
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
- Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Fluff the rice with a fork, and your Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet is ready to serve!
Notes
- Use a Thermometer: Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
- Let it Rest: Allow the skillet to sit covered for a few minutes after cooking for enhanced flavor.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings based on your preference for a unique taste.
- Keep it Covered: Covering the skillet while cooking helps the rice cook evenly and retain moisture.
- Presentation Matters: Serve with a sprinkle of feta cheese for a beautiful finish!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg