Ah, the delightful aroma of Mediterranean cooking! Let me tell you, one of my absolute favorite weeknight meals has to be this One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet Meal. Not only is it a fiesta of flavors, but it’s also a breeze to make. Picture this: you come home after a long day, maybe a little hangry, and all you want is something delicious but simple. That’s where this dish comes in – it’s comforting, nutritious, and you only need one pan. No dishwasher drama to deal with afterward!
I first discovered this recipe at a family gathering; my cousin had whipped it up, and I was immediately intrigued. The rich combination of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and fragrant herbs was a crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’ve been transported straight to a sunny Mediterranean villa, even if you’re just in your cozy kitchen. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can throw in whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen.
What’s in One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet Meal?
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: The star of the show! This protein-packed favorite is easy to cook and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the spices and broth.
Brown Rice: I prefer brown rice for its nutty flavor and added health benefits. It’s heartier than white rice and creates a satisfying base for the dish.
Chicken Broth: This adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the rice. I always opt for low-sodium chicken broth so I can control the salt levels in my dish.
Fresh Spinach: Not only does it add a vibrant color, but spinach also boosts the nutritional profile. It cooks down beautifully, providing an excellent way to sneak in those greens.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little gems pack a punch of flavor. They add a bit of sweetness along with that Mediterranean flair.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatic companions lay the groundwork for flavor that makes your taste buds sing. There’s nothing quite like the smell of sautéing onions and garlic, am I right?
Dried Oregano & Basil: Classic herbs that are essential in Mediterranean cooking. They add warmth and a hint of earthiness.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): If you like a little kick, these are your best friends. Just a pinch adds a delightful spice to the dish.
Olive Oil: A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, it’s healthy fat that helps with cooking and adds richness.
Salt and Pepper: Because we need a little balance and seasoning goodness in every dish!
Fresh Parsley: This not only serves as a garnish but also adds a fresh, herbaceous aroma right before you dig in.
Is One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet Meal Good for You?
Yes! This dish checks all the boxes for a wholesome meal.
Chicken Breast: A lean protein source that helps with muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer.
Brown Rice: It’s a whole grain, meaning it has more fiber than white rice, helping with digestion and keeping you satisfied.
Fresh Spinach: Packed with vitamins and minerals, this leafy green adds a mighty punch of nutrients, promoting overall health.
However, if you’re watching your sodium, make sure to go with low-sodium chicken broth and be mindful of the additional salt you might add.
Overall, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying – a balanced meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 4 hungry mouths (or 2 extra hungry ones!).
How to Make One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet Meal?
1. Grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Trust me, the smell will bring everyone to the kitchen!
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen should be filling with deliciousness by now.
3. Next, it’s time to add the diced chicken. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and those optional red pepper flakes. Cook until the chicken is browned all over, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the brown rice, ensuring it’s mixed well with the chicken and spices.
5. Pour the chicken broth over the mixture and bring everything to a simmer. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for about 30-35 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Once the rice is cooked through, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the spinach has wilted. Your kitchen will smell like a Mediterranean bistro!
7. Remove from heat and give it a taste! Adjust any seasoning if needed. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy every bite!
Let’s Spice Things Up!
Here are some fun tips to take your skillet meal to the next level:
– **Add Different Vegetables:** Feel free to throw in any other veggies you have lying around. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even artichokes could jazz things up nicely!
– **Cheesy Goodness:** Consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving for that extra Mediterranean touch.
– **Make It a One-Pot Wonder:** I love serving it straight from the skillet; it makes for easy cleanup and looks beautiful right on the table.
– **Storing Leftovers:** If you happen to have any leftovers (which I doubt because it’s so good), store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This meal reheats well and is perfect for lunch!
I really hope you give this One Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Skillet Meal a try. It’s a recipe that never fails to impress, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an inviting gathering with friends. If you do, let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!
