There’s something magical about the way Mediterranean flavors come together in this hearty chicken and rice dish. This one-pot Mediterranean chicken and rice recipe combines tender chicken thighs, aromatic spices, fluffy rice, and sun-kissed vegetables for a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Inspired by the coastal regions of Greece and Turkey, this dish brings together lemon, garlic, oregano, and briny olives to create a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests, this recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor.

What makes this dish truly special is its effortless elegance and balanced nutrition. Unlike heavy casseroles or bland chicken dinners, this recipe features golden, crispy-skinned chicken nestled in saffron-infused rice with bursts of sweet tomatoes and tangy feta. The one-pot cooking method means minimal cleanup, while the layered cooking technique ensures the rice absorbs all the delicious juices from the chicken. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for a family, this protein-packed, veggie-loaded dish checks all the boxes for a satisfying meal that aligns with Mediterranean diet principles.

What Makes This Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Special?

This recipe stands out because it delivers restaurant-quality flavors with home cooking simplicity. The crispy chicken skin contrasts beautifully with the tender, herb-infused rice, while ingredients like artichokes, Kalamata olives, and preserved lemon add authentic Mediterranean flair. Unlike typical chicken and rice dishes, this version is bright, fresh, and full of texture thanks to the finishing touches of fresh herbs and crumbled feta. The one-pot cooking method also means the rice absorbs all the delicious chicken flavors, creating an unforgettable depth of taste in every forkful.

Mediterranean Chicken and Rice: A Flavorful One-Pot Wonder

Recipe by Jamie Erin

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

520

kcal

Ingredients for Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

For the Chicken:

4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Rice:
1½ cups basmati or jasmine rice, rinsed
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup artichoke hearts, quartered
¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
2½ cups chicken stock
½ tsp saffron threads (optional)
1 bay leaf
1 lemon (zest + juice)
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ cup crumbled feta cheese

Directions for Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

Season and Sear the Chicken
Pat chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken skin-side down for 5-6 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook 2 more minutes, then remove and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add diced onion and cook 3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and bell pepper, cooking another 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in rice and toast lightly for 1 minute.
Build the Flavor Base
Add cherry tomatoes, artichokes, and olives to the pot. Pour in chicken stock, saffron (if using), bay leaf, lemon zest, and juice. Scrape up any browned bits from the chicken for extra flavor.
Cook the Chicken and Rice Together
Nestle the seared chicken thighs into the rice mixture, skin-side up. Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 25 minutes without peeking to let the rice absorb all the flavors.
Finish with Fresh Elements
Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes. Discard bay leaf, then fluff rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley and crumbled feta before serving.

What to Serve with Mediterranean Chicken and Rice?

Creamy tzatziki sauce for drizzling
Warm pita bread or crusty baguette
Simple Greek salad with cucumber and red onion
Roasted lemon potatoes for a complete feast
Grilled vegetables like zucchini and eggplant

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 22g (healthy fats from olive oil and chicken)
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean chicken and rice recipe is the ultimate one-pot wonder that delivers big flavors with minimal effort. The combination of crispy chicken, fragrant rice, and vibrant Mediterranean ingredients creates a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend entertaining, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite that brings the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean to your table anytime. The best part? One pot means easy cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy this delicious meal!