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Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe

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3.9 from 26 reviews

  • Author: Alice
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: High-Protein

Description

This Mediterranean chicken and rice bake is a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender boneless skinless chicken thighs, aromatic long-grain rice, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese. Infused with classic Mediterranean herbs and spices, this dish is perfect for a family dinner that requires minimal preparation and cleanup.

Ingredients

Protein and Dairy

  • 1½ lbs (680g) boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

Grains

  • 1 cup (190g) long-grain rice

Vegetables and Fruits

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup sliced olives
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids

  • 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even cooking.
  2. Prepare the baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with olive oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
  3. Layer the rice: Spread the dry long-grain rice evenly at the bottom of the baking dish for an even cooking base.
  4. Add liquid and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the rice.
  5. Add tomatoes and olives: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced olives over the seasoned rice to add moisture and flavor.
  6. Arrange chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture in a single layer. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the chicken to keep it moist during baking.
  7. Cover and bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam, and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the broth and the chicken to cook gently.
  8. Add feta cheese: Remove the foil carefully and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the chicken and rice.
  9. Finish baking: Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the rice is tender.
  10. Rest and serve: Let the bake rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven to allow the flavors to settle, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Add fresh spinach or artichokes for extra vegetables and nutrients.
  • If using brown rice, increase cooking time to about 75–90 minutes to ensure it becomes tender.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to enhance flavor and presentation.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Find it online: https://myhomemadecooking.com/mediterranean-chicken-and-rice-bake-recipe/