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One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

A delightful dish that combines bright Mediterranean flavors, easy to make, and requires minimal cleanup, perfect for casual weeknight dinners or relaxing weekends.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the seasoning mix
  • 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
Main ingredients
  • 2 pieces chicken breasts (sliced into 4 pieces)
  • 2 tsp lemon juice for marinating chicken
  • 2 tsp olive oil for marinating chicken
  • 1 cup rice (rinsed and soaked in water for 30 minutes) to achieve fluffy results
  • 2 1/4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 piece bay leaf
  • 1 inch cinnamon stick
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1 piece onion (finely chopped) for sautéing
  • 1 tsp garlic (finely chopped) for sautéing

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine thyme, oregano, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, salt, paprika, and turmeric powder in a small bowl to prepare the seasoning mix.
  2. Marinate chicken slices with 2 teaspoons of lemon juice and 2 teaspoons of olive oil in another bowl. Rub the seasoning mix all over the chicken pieces.
Cooking
  1. Heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat in a large pan. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Place the marinated chicken in the pan and sear both sides for about 3-4 minutes until browned.
  4. Stir in the soaked rice and mix well to coat it with the spices.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, add the bay leaf and cinnamon stick, and bring everything to a boil.
  6. Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
  7. Once cooked, add the frozen peas and stir gently. Let it cook for another 2 minutes before removing from heat.

Notes

Serve hot from the pan, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges. Pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread. To store leftovers, cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving. Adjust spices to taste and consider adding more vegetables for nutritional benefits.