Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate

Name: Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 2 lemons; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup basmati rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Studio

I love making this Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate when I want something flavorful yet simple. The bright flavors of lemon, fresh herbs, and spices combine beautifully with juicy chicken and fluffy rice. Each bite transports me to the sunny Mediterranean coast, and it’s perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with family. I often serve it with a side of tzatziki for an extra layer of creaminess.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:07:36.841Z

When I first tried making a Mediterranean-inspired dish, I was amazed at how vibrant the flavors could be with just a few ingredients. I marinated the chicken with lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, and I found that letting it sit for an hour really enhances the taste. The rice cooked in the chicken juices adds an extra layer of flavor that takes the dish to another level.

Experimenting with different vegetables also made a difference. I added bell peppers and olives, which not only enhance the overall flavor but also provide a beautiful presentation. Serve it with a sprinkle of feta cheese, and you'll have a dish that feels like a celebration on your plate!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and healthy, perfect for a balanced meal
Rich in Mediterranean flavors that brighten your palate
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables

Perfecting the Chicken

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if time allows, let it sit in the marinade for up to 2 hours. This resting time not only enhances the taste but also helps keep the chicken moist during cooking. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.

When cooking the chicken, heat your skillet until it’s medium hot before adding the chicken. You’re looking for a sizzle sound when it hits the pan, which indicates it’s sealing in the juices. Cook it until it's golden brown on both sides (around 6-7 minutes each side), ensuring that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Mastering the Rice

To achieve perfectly fluffy basmati rice, rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear; this removes excess starch that can cause the rice to become sticky. Toasting the rice in the skillet with the diced bell pepper enhances its nutty flavors, making for a more aromatic dish. Be careful not to over-toast; just 1-2 minutes before adding the broth is ideal.

When adding the chicken broth, make sure it’s at a boiling point before reducing the heat to a simmer. If you don't have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth works well, or you can use water with a splash of lemon juice for added acidity. Cover the skillet tightly while cooking to trap steam, which helps the rice cook evenly over the 15 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 2 lemons
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

1 cup basmati rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready for cooking!

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Rice

Using the same skillet, add the diced bell pepper and sauté for about 2 minutes. Then, add the basmati rice and toast it slightly before adding the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover, cooking for 15 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Add olives and crumbled feta, then return the chicken to the skillet, warming everything through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding capers or artichokes when cooking the rice. Serving this dish with a side salad can complement the rich flavors nicely.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate holds up beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a side of tzatziki elevates the dish further. The cool, creamy yogurt sauce complements the lemony chicken and enhances the flavors of the olives and feta. You can also serve it with pita bread for a more robust Mediterranean meal.

For a colorful presentation, consider topping the dish with freshly chopped herbs, such as mint or dill, in addition to parsley. A sprinkle of paprika or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving can also add both visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor.

Leftovers and Storage

If you happen to have leftovers, store the chicken and rice in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best quality, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture. Cover the skillet to keep the dish steamy and avoid drying it out during reheating.

This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months. Make sure to portion it into meal-sized servings before freezing. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in a skillet until heated through, or microwave it directly from frozen, stirring occasionally for even heating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but cooking time will increase. Adjust broth accordingly.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with roasted chickpeas and use vegetable broth.

→ What other veggies can I add?

Zucchini, carrots, or spinach work great in this dish.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the chicken the night before for deeper flavor.