Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, I have just the recipe for you! This Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s packed with flavor, comes together in under 20 minutes, and is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s fancy enough to impress your friends at a casual gathering!

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand, making it ideal for meal prep or using up those random veggies in your fridge. Trust me, once you try this Italian chicken and rice recipe, it will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful goodness: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a delightful Mediterranean flavor that will wow your taste buds.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the tender chicken and savory rice, making it an easy choice for family dinners.
• Great for leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day! Perfect for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Customizable: Feel free to add in any vegetables or proteins you have on hand to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store!

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs ($5.99)
• 1 tbsp olive oil ($0.22)
• 2 tsp salt, divided ($0.10)
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning, divided ($0.20)
• 2 tsp garlic powder, divided ($0.20)

For the Vegetables

• 1 medium onion ($0.33)
• 2 medium garlic cloves ($0.08)
• 1 bunch kale ($1.99)

For the Rice Mix

• 1/2 cup vegetable broth ($0.11)
• 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes in olive oil ($1.17)
• 2.5 cups cooked rice (jasmine or basmati) ($0.40)

Variations

One of the best things about this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet is how flexible it is! Here are some fun variations to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey breast or chickpeas instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost nutrition and color.
• Change the grains: Quinoa or farro can be great substitutes for rice if you’re looking for something different.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of lemon zest for a little kick!

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces using scissors or a sharp knife on a plastic cutting board—this makes it easier to handle! In a bowl, combine the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and Italian seasoning. Stir well so every piece is coated nicely; this helps lock in flavors during cooking.

Step 2: Heat Up Your Skillet

Preheat a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat. It’s important to get your skillet hot before adding the chicken; this way, you’ll achieve that beautiful golden-brown sear that adds extra flavor.

Step 3: Chop Your Veggies

While the skillet heats up, chop your onion and garlic finely; don’t forget to destem and chop the kale too! Preparing these ingredients ahead of time helps everything cook evenly and quickly.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Once your skillet is hot, add the chicken in an even layer without stirring for about 5 minutes. This allows it to brown properly! Afterward, give it a stir and let it cook through until no longer pink—about another 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Remove the chicken from the skillet when it’s done cooking and lower the heat slightly to medium. Now spray some olive oil or avocado oil spray into the skillet before adding chopped onions. Cook them until they’re soft (about 2-3 minutes), then add garlic for another minute or two until fragrant.

Step 6: Add Kale and Broth

With onions starting to brown beautifully, throw in that chopped kale along with vegetable broth and any remaining seasonings—this will create a lovely mixture as everything wilts down together.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Once your kale has wilted nicely (just about 2-3 minutes), it’s time to add back in our cooked chicken along with rice and sundried tomatoes. Stir everything together so each ingredient gets mixed well; then cover with a lid! Letting it rest off heat for about 5 minutes allows all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

And there you have it—a delightful Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet that makes dinner feel special without all the fuss! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet

Cooking can be a breeze with a little know-how, so here are some pro tips to make your Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet shine even brighter!

• Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and measure out your spices ahead of time. This makes the cooking process smoother and ensures you don’t miss any ingredients while you’re in the zone.
• Use High Heat for Searing: When you first add the chicken to the skillet, let it sear undisturbed. This helps develop a delicious crust that locks in moisture, giving you tender, juicy chicken.
• Customize Your Greens: Don’t have kale on hand? Spinach or Swiss chard also work wonderfully in this dish. Each green brings its unique flavor and nutrition, making it versatile for whatever you have available.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to swap out the Italian seasoning for other spice blends like Greek or Moroccan. This simple change can give the dish an entirely new flavor profile and keep dinner exciting.
• Save Those Leftovers: If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They taste just as good (or even better!) the next day, making them perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet

Presentation matters! A beautifully served dish can elevate your dining experience, so consider these fun ideas for serving your Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their portions; this brightens up the flavors beautifully.
• Feta Crumbles: For a creamy tanginess (if not avoiding dairy), sprinkle some feta cheese over the dish just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Mediterranean Salad: Toss together cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese (if desired) with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side that complements the flavors of your main dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant roasted with olive oil and herbs adds color and nutrients to your meal.
• Hummus with Pita Chips: A creamy hummus served alongside warm pita chips makes for a delightful starter or side that enhances the Mediterranean theme.
• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus is not only delicious but also adds a touch of elegance to your meal while providing extra fiber and vitamins.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet will undoubtedly impress! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for quick meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in the Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet?

Yes! Brown rice can be used, but keep in mind that it may require a longer cooking time. Adjust your liquid quantity accordingly to ensure everything cooks evenly.

What makes this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet a healthy option?

This recipe features lean chicken breast, plenty of vegetables, and wholesome grains. It’s packed with protein and fiber while being low in unhealthy fats, making it a nutritious choice.

How can I customize the Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out the kale for spinach or Swiss chard. You can also add different herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences!

Is this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy easy, nutritious meals throughout your week.

What is the best way to serve Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet?

You can serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread. A sprinkle of feta cheese on top can also enhance its flavor if desired!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors that can brighten any weeknight dinner. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or savoring leftovers during busy days, it’s bound to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!