Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet

You know those meals that feel like a warm hug and a mini vacation all at once? This is one of them. The Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet is cozy, vibrant, and absolutely bursting with flavor from juicy chicken to briny olives and tangy tomatoes, all nestled in perfectly seasoned rice. And the best part? It all comes together in one skillet. That means less mess, less cleanup, and more time to enjoy the food (and the compliments).

This dish is perfect for weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen all night. It’s comforting yet fresh, hearty yet light, and seriously once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked. Let’s get into it, friend. This one’s a keeper.

Why You’ll Love Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Great for a casual dinner or dressed up for guests with some feta crumbles and fresh herbs.

Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like rice, broth, and canned tomatoes, making it easy on the wallet.

Quick and Easy: One skillet. One burner. One dreamy dinner in under an hour.

Customizable: Don’t like olives? Skip them. Want to go spicy? Add a pinch of chili flakes. The flavor combos are endless.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet

Here’s the beauty of this skillet it’s built with simple, bold ingredients that blend together into something deeply comforting and flavorful:

Chicken Thighs: Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for searing. They stay moist and soak up all that Mediterranean goodness.

Long-Grain White Rice: The fluffy foundation that carries all the flavor. Cooked right in the skillet so it absorbs every drop of seasoned broth.

Cherry Tomatoes or Diced Tomatoes: Bursting with natural sweetness and acidity, they give the dish a vibrant kick.

Chicken Broth: Adds depth and heartiness to the rice, turning it into something way more special than just a side.

Garlic & Onion: The flavor base that makes everything taste homemade and cozy.

Kalamata Olives: Salty, briny, and totally essential for that Mediterranean flair.

Red Bell Pepper: Slightly sweet with a bit of crunch adds color and texture to every bite.

Fresh Spinach: Wilts beautifully into the rice and adds a nutritious touch.

Lemon Juice & Zest: Brightens the whole dish and balances the richness. A must!

Dried Oregano & Paprika: The seasoning combo that takes everything to the next level. A little earthy, a little smoky, a whole lot of delicious.

Olive Oil: For that classic Mediterranean finish—rich, fruity, and perfect for searing and drizzling.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it get hot.

Combine Ingredients: Season your chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Massage the spices into the chicken so every bite is packed with flavor.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Once the skillet is hot, sear the chicken thighs, skin-side down, until golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another couple of minutes, then remove and set aside.

Assemble the Dish: In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and red pepper until soft and fragrant. Stir in the rice to toast it slightly this adds a lovely nuttiness.

Cook to Perfection: Add the tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine, then nestle the chicken back in. Bring everything to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.

Finishing Touches: Stir in spinach and olives, and let them warm through. Finish with lemon zest and juice for that bright Mediterranean finish.

Serve and Enjoy: Spoon into bowls, top with extra olives or herbs if desired, and dig in! It’s cozy, satisfying, and so full of flavor.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~510
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• A dollop of tzatziki or plain Greek yogurt on the side
• Warm pita bread or flatbread for scooping
• A crisp cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Crumbled feta on top for extra creaminess
• A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with mint

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Don’t skip the lemon it brightens everything beautifully
• Use bone-in chicken for even more flavor (just adjust cook time)
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat
• Stir the rice occasionally to prevent sticking if using a thinner pan
• Make it vegetarian by swapping the chicken for chickpeas and using vegetable broth
• Leftovers reheat like a dream just add a splash of broth or water
• If rice is still too firm, add a bit more broth and simmer covered
• Want it creamier? Stir in a spoonful of hummus before serving
• Fresh parsley or dill on top adds a fresh herbal kick
• Let it rest a few minutes before serving this helps flavors meld beautifully

FAQ’s

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and liquid slightly. Keep it covered and check for doneness.

2. What’s the best pan to use?
A heavy-bottomed, deep skillet with a lid works best cast iron or stainless steel is ideal.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
You can! Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

4. Can I add cheese?
Definitely. Feta is a perfect match. Stir it in at the end or sprinkle on top before serving.

5. Do I have to use olives?
Nope! If you’re not a fan, leave them out or swap for capers for a different briny bite.

6. Can I make this dairy-free and gluten-free?
Yes it’s naturally both as long as your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

7. How do I know the chicken is done?
It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and be juicy and opaque all the way through.

8. Can I prep this in advance?
Yes! Chop your veggies and measure your spices ahead to make cooking even quicker.

9. Will jasmine or basmati rice work?
Absolutely. Just adjust cooking time slightly based on the type of rice you use.

10. Can I add more veggies?
Of course! Zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms would be great additions. Just sauté them with the peppers.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Skillet is everything you want in a weeknight dinner simple, satisfying, and full of sunshine-in-a-pan vibes. With juicy chicken, tender rice, and those bold Mediterranean flavors, it’s the kind of meal that’s as comforting as it is exciting. Whether you’re cooking for your crew or just for you, this one brings everyone to the table with happy hearts and full bellies. Give it a try you’ll be making it on repeat!

Print