Name: Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained; 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

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If you’re looking for a dish that is equal parts comforting and bursting with vibrant flavors, the Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe will quickly become your go-to. This dish perfectly balances juicy, seasoned chicken with tender rice cooked in a rich tomato base, accented by herbs and a medley of Mediterranean ingredients. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines simplicity and elegance, making dinner prep a breeze while delivering a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether you’re feeding family or treating friends, this recipe shines every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows eight ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface. In the center is a white bowl holding a large piece of raw chicken with pale pink and white skin. To the top left is a small white bowl filled with golden raisins. Directly above the chicken is a glass measuring cup with a light yellow liquid. To the top right is a small white bowl containing a light yellow oil. Below that, another small white bowl holds a mix of brownish and greenish dry spices. At the bottom left corner, a metal measuring cup is filled with white rice grains, and next to it is another metal measuring cup holding light brown nuts. Two metal spoons with orange and yellow powdered spices are placed side by side near the bottom right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in layering flavors, adding texture, and bringing that authentic Mediterranean spirit to your table.

Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, they stay tender and moist throughout baking.
Long-grain rice: Absorbs all the savory juices and spices, forming the perfect fluffy base.
Diced tomatoes: Provide a tangy, slightly sweet richness that infuses the entire dish.
Onion and garlic: Foundation aromatics that build depth and warmth in every bite.
Chicken broth: A savory liquid essential for cooking the rice to perfection.
Kalamata olives: Add a briny, salty pop that elevates the flavor profile.
Fresh herbs (oregano, thyme, parsley): Brighten the dish with herbal freshness and authenticity.
Bell peppers: Bring a crunchy, colorful contrast that balances the softness of rice and chicken.
Olive oil: Adds richness and ensures everything cooks beautifully without drying out.
Seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika): Vital for enhancing the natural flavors and adding subtle smoky warmth.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your fresh vegetables and herbs. Dice the onion and garlic finely to ensure they melt seamlessly into the rice. Chop the bell peppers and roughly slice the Kalamata olives. Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs but leave the skin on for extra flavor and crispiness. Pre-measured spices ready? You’re all set to begin cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat up your olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down to get that golden, crispy skin that locks in juices. Cooking for about 5 minutes on each side until nicely browned not only deepens the flavor but also sets the stage for a succulent finish later.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

Remove the chicken temporarily and in the same pan, stir in the onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cooking them for about 3-4 minutes until softened releases their natural sweetness, which complements the savory chicken beautifully.

Step 4: Add Rice and Seasonings

Pour the rice into the skillet, stirring well to coat each grain with the flavorful oil and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle in paprika, salt, and pepper, then stir again. This step ensures every bite is infused with aroma and taste from the get-go.

Step 5: Incorporate Liquids and Olives

Add in the diced tomatoes with their juices and chicken broth. Toss in the sliced Kalamata olives to disperse their unique salty bite evenly. Give everything one last hearty stir, layering flavors that will meld beautifully as it bakes.

Step 6: Nestle the Chicken and Bake

Place the chicken thighs gently back on top of the rice mixture, skin side up to keep crispiness intact. Sprinkle fresh herbs over the top. Cover your skillet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken cooked through.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe

This dish is shown in a metal pan filled with a base layer of white rice with a fluffy texture. On top of the rice, there are several pieces of cooked chicken with a browned, slightly crispy surface. Scattered across the chicken are whole and halved yellow and red cherry tomatoes, adding bright orange and red colors. Dark purple olives, both whole and sliced, are spread evenly across the dish. Fresh green sprigs of dill are placed all over, giving a fresh and lively look. The pan is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice sprinkled over the top right before serving brightens the whole dish and lifts the flavors beautifully. You can also add crumbled feta cheese for an extra creamy, tangy touch that pairs wonderfully with the olives and herbs.

Side Dishes

This bake is wholesome and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crisp Greek salad or warm, crusty bread makes for a complete, rounded meal. The salad’s refreshing crunch complements the softness of the chicken and rice perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy family dinner, serve it straight from the skillet for that rustic, homey vibe. Hosting guests? Transfer onto a large platter and garnish with vibrant Mediterranean olives, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an elegant, colorful presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep this dish fresh for longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently covered in the microwave or in a low oven until warmed through. If the rice seems dry, add a splash of broth or water to bring back its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You can substitute chicken breasts, but they tend to dry out faster. If you do use breasts, keep an eye on the baking time and consider covering the dish to retain moisture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely. All ingredients in this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian twist, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth with extra vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a hearty bake that still captures the Mediterranean flavors.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe because it stays fluffy and absorbs the flavors well. Avoid quick-cooking or instant rice as the cooking time and texture would differ too much.

Can I add cheese inside the bake?

Certainly! Stirring in some shredded mozzarella or crumbled feta into the rice before baking adds a lovely creaminess that melts through the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe is truly a keeper, blending simple ingredients into a gorgeous, comforting meal that feels special without any fuss. Cooking it is like inviting a little sunshine onto your plate, making every bite a joyful experience. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will have a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.