Mediterranean Forgotten Chicken

Tender herbed chicken baked over a savory rice base with classic Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 4 chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier results)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp salt

• Juice of ½ lemon

For the rice base:

• 1 ½ cups long-grain rice (uncooked, rinsed)

• 1 can (400ml) low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup diced tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup sliced olives (optional but very Mediterranean)

• ¼ cup crumbled feta (optional)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp oregano

• Salt + pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: 160°C (325°F).

2. Season the chicken:
   Mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Rub all over the chicken.

3. Prepare the rice layer:
   In a baking dish, combine rinsed rice, broth, water, tomatoes, onion, garlic, olives, oregano, olive oil, salt & pepper. Stir well.

4. Add chicken on top:
   Place the seasoned chicken breasts over the rice—don’t mix.

5. Cover tightly:
   Use foil to seal the dish completely so steam doesn’t escape.

6. Bake (and forget!):
   Place in the oven for 1 hour 45 minutes.
   Don’t peek! The steam is what cooks the rice perfectly.

7. Finish:
   Remove foil, sprinkle feta if using, and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes to brown slightly.

8. Serve with:
   Fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of olive oil.

Mediterranean Add-Ins (optional but delicious)

• Sun-dried tomatoes

• Artichoke hearts

• Spinach

• Chickpeas

• Fresh basil

Result

Juicy, tender chicken → fluffy, flavorful rice → effortless one-pan Mediterranean comfort food.