One Pan Mediterranean Chicken And Rice
A delightful, homemade dish that brings the essence of the Mediterranean into your home with a blend of spices, chicken, and rice, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 thighs Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or boneless) Swap in chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- 1 cup Rice (long grain or basmati) Quinoa works as a great gluten-free substitute.
- 1 Onion, diced Leeks or shallots can also be used.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
- 2 Bell peppers, chopped Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables.
- 1 can Tomatoes (or 2 fresh) Diced or crushed tomatoes can be used.
- 2 cups Chicken broth Vegetable broth can make it vegetarian.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil Avocado oil is a good high-smoke point alternative.
- to taste Salt and pepper Ensures well-seasoned goodness.
- 1 lemon Lemon for garnish Adds a splash of acidity.
Spices
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- a pinch Saffron Optional, elevates the dish further.
Instructions
Preparation
- Dice the onion and bell peppers, mince the garlic, and chop the tomatoes.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken, skin-side down. Sear until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pan, add diced onions and bell peppers. Cook until soft (3-4 minutes), then stir in garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomatoes, rice, paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Nestle the chicken back in, skin-side up.
- Cover the pan, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving.
Notes
For additional nutrition, toss in spinach or kale at the end of cooking. Don't overcrowd the pan when browning the chicken and taste as you go for perfect seasonings.