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Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Casserole

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Mediterranean Chicken and Rice Casserole is a vibrant and wholesome one-dish meal packed with juicy chicken, fragrant rice, and bold Mediterranean flavors like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, lemon, garlic, and herbs. It’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small red or yellow onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. In the baking dish, combine uncooked rice, chopped onion, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, and olives. Stir to distribute evenly.
  4. Pour the seasoned broth mixture over the rice and vegetables.
  5. Season chicken with salt and pepper and place on top of the rice mixture.
  6. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  7. Remove foil, sprinkle feta cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired.

Notes

  • Use brown rice but increase liquid slightly and extend baking time by 15–20 minutes.
  • Marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for extra flavor.
  • Add chopped spinach or kale during the last 15 minutes of baking for more greens.
  • Omit olives or substitute with artichoke hearts or capers for a different twist.
  • Top with extra feta after baking for added creaminess and saltiness.

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