Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate

Name: Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges

Highlighted under: International World Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making this Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate! It's a delightful dish that transports you to the vibrant shores of the Mediterranean with every bite. The combination of seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables creates a perfect harmony of flavors. Plus, the colors are so inviting on the plate! I often make this for family gatherings, and it's always a hit. The best part? It’s not just delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that make me feel good.

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-15T02:07:37.072Z

When I first attempted this Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate recipe, I was intrigued by the bold flavors and fresh ingredients typical to Mediterranean cuisine. I decided to marinate the chicken overnight, allowing the spices to infuse deeper into the meat, which added incredible depth. The rice cooked alongside the chicken in the same pan absorbed all the savory juices, making it wonderfully aromatic.

To elevate this dish further, I added a medley of vibrant vegetables right at the end, keeping them crisp and colorful. This not only enhances the taste but also makes the plate visually appealing. I've found that serving it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs takes it to the next level!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A symphony of Mediterranean flavors in every bite
Easy to prepare with simple, wholesome ingredients
Perfect for sharing with family or at gatherings

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is essential for infusing flavor. The combination of olive oil, garlic, oregano, and paprika not only tenderizes the chicken but also creates a savory crust when cooked. For best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you're in a hurry, even 15 minutes can help enhance the flavor. If you have more time, refrigerating the marinated chicken for up to 4 hours will yield an even deeper taste.

Always ensure the chicken is evenly coated in the marinade. A good tip is to use a resealable plastic bag; this allows for more even distribution of the marinade. If you notice any pieces of chicken sticking out, give them a little extra love, as they can often miss out on those delicious flavors.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

Cooking rice might seem straightforward, but achieving fluffy grains can often be tricky. Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, which helps to remove excess starch and prevents it from becoming gummy. When adding the rice to boiling chicken broth, ensure that the pot is covered tightly; this traps steam and promotes even cooking.

Watch for the cooking time closely—18 minutes is generally ideal for long-grain rice. After the cooking time, let the rice sit covered off the heat for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the remaining steam to finish cooking the rice and helps it to fluff up beautifully when you stir it with a fork.

A Flavorful Vegetable Medley

The addition of sautéed vegetables not only elevates the dish visually but also enhances its nutritional profile. I love mixing textures; the cherry tomatoes add a juicy burst, while the diced bell pepper and zucchini provide a satisfying crunch. Sautéing them in the same skillet as the chicken helps capture all those flavorful bits left behind, making the dish cohesive.

For a variation, consider swapping out the zucchini for asparagus or adding in some spinach towards the end of cooking. Both options maintain the vibrant color palette and contribute unique flavors while accommodating different dietary preferences.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 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 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme

For Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, coating them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for 18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.

Add Vegetables

In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.

Assemble the Plate

Fluff the rice with a fork, then divide it among plates. Top with the sautéed vegetables and sliced chicken. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of saffron to the rice while it cooks. It adds a beautiful color and a rich aroma. Also, feel free to use a variety of vegetables based on what's in season!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to prepare this Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate in advance, you can marinate the chicken a day ahead. Just keep it well-covered in the refrigerator. The rice can also be cooked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, which makes assembly quick and easy. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the rice on low heat with a splash of broth to retain moisture.

The assembled dish is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop on low heat. Remember to add a splash of water to the rice to prevent it from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate is delightful on its own, but it can be paired with various sides to create a well-rounded meal. A simple Greek salad with cucumber, olives, and feta cheese complements the flavors perfectly. Alternatively, serve it with warm pita bread for a wholesome touch that can be used to scoop up any remaining rice and vegetables.

For those looking for a little more zing, a yogurt-based tzatziki sauce drizzled over the chicken adds a refreshing dimension. You could also sprinkle a little feta cheese on top for added creaminess and salty notes, enhancing the Mediterranean flair of this vibrant dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your protein choices! This recipe is just as delicious if you substitute chicken with shrimp or firm tofu for a vegetarian option. If you choose tofu, make sure to press it to remove excess moisture before marinating. Cooking times will vary; shrimp generally takes about 3-4 minutes on each side, while tofu may need 5-6 minutes until golden.

Also, don't hesitate to customize your vegetable medley. If you have leftover vegetables in your fridge, throw them in! Carrots, eggplant, or even asparagus can add unique flavors and textures. Keep in mind to adjust the sautéing times accordingly so everything remains tender yet crisp.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically requires about 40-45 minutes to cook.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a delicious plant-based meal.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice ahead, and simply reheat before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully!

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Mediterranean Chicken Rice Plate pairs wonderfully with a side salad or tzatziki sauce for dipping.