Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate
Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventure
I absolutely adore Mediterranean flavors, and this Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate is one of my go-to recipes for a quick yet satisfying meal. With savory spices, fresh herbs, and juicy chicken, it captures the essence of the Mediterranean in every bite. I love pairing it with fluffy rice infused with lemon and olives, which really elevates the dish. This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or a relaxing weekend meal with friends. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
During my last culinary adventure, I was inspired by the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. I decided to recreate a comforting chicken rice plate, using fresh ingredients that truly captured that sunny, coastal essence. I experimented with marinating the chicken in a mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, and let me tell you, it became incredibly tender and flavorful!
To enhance the dish even further, I used chicken broth to cook the rice, then stirred in some olives and lemon zest. This little trick adds depth and brightness to the rice, making it blend perfectly with the seasoned chicken. I can't wait for you to try it!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Savory marinated chicken bursting with flavor
- Fluffy rice infused with lemon and olives
- Quick, easy recipe perfect for any night
Mastering the Marinade
The marinade for the chicken is where the magic begins. The combination of olive oil, garlic, oregano, and paprika not only flavors the chicken but also helps to tenderize it due to the fat content. Letting the chicken rest in this mixture for a minimum of 15 minutes allows the spices to penetrate, but for maximum flavor, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
One crucial tip is to ensure that the chicken is fully coated with the marinade. I recommend using a resealable plastic bag for an even distribution of flavors. Just toss the chicken in, seal the bag, and massage the marinade into the meat. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken that becomes the star of your Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate.
Cooking the Rice Perfectly
Getting fluffy rice is essential for this dish. Use long-grain rice, as it tends to stay separate and prevents clumping. When you add the rice to the boiling chicken broth, give it a gentle stir to ensure it doesn’t stick together. Covering the pot immediately will trap steam, cooking the rice evenly. Avoid lifting the lid during the cooking process; a common mistake is being tempted to peek, which disrupts the steam buildup necessary for perfect rice.
If you wish to customize the flavor of the rice even further, consider substituting part of the chicken broth with white wine or adding a bay leaf during cooking. Just remember to remove the bay leaf before serving. This ensures that every bite of your rice is aromatic and complementary to the zesty chicken.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Rice
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and halved
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Cook the Rice
In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes or until rice is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
Cook the Chicken
While the rice cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through.
Combine the Ingredients
Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and stir in the olives and lemon zest. Serve the chicken over a generous scoop of rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
Pro Tips
- For an extra splash of flavor, try adding some cherry tomatoes to the skillet while cooking the chicken for a delightful contrast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (although it’s hard to resist this dish), store the chicken and rice separately in airtight containers. The chicken will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, while the rice should be consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness. You can also freeze both for up to 3 months.
When reheating, I suggest using the stove for even heating. Simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to the rice while reheating to prevent it from drying out. The chicken can be quickly warmed in a skillet over medium heat, ensuring that it retains its moisture.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
Serving this dish with a side of tzatziki or a simple Greek salad can add an extra layer of freshness to complement the rich flavors of the chicken and rice. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta to your salad for an authentic Mediterranean touch.
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with marinated and grilled eggplant or zucchini. Make sure to adjust the marinating time according to the vegetable you choose. This not only maintains the essence of this Mediterranean plate but also introduces lovely textures and flavors that everyone can enjoy!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may need a slightly shorter cooking time.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
A simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables pairs beautifully with this plate.
→ Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook.
→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for a couple of days and can be reheated easily.
Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate
I absolutely adore Mediterranean flavors, and this Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate is one of my go-to recipes for a quick yet satisfying meal. With savory spices, fresh herbs, and juicy chicken, it captures the essence of the Mediterranean in every bite. I love pairing it with fluffy rice infused with lemon and olives, which really elevates the dish. This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or a relaxing weekend meal with friends. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Created by: Perrie Lawson
Recipe Type: Global Taste Adventure
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Rice
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and halved
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes or until rice is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
While the rice cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through.
Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and stir in the olives and lemon zest. Serve the chicken over a generous scoop of rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips
- For an extra splash of flavor, try adding some cherry tomatoes to the skillet while cooking the chicken for a delightful contrast.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 43g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 27g