Mediterranean One-Pan Chicken and Rice

Welcome to the heart of Greek home cooking, where simplicity meets incredible flavor! This One Pot Greek Chicken and Rice recipe is not just a meal; it’s a culinary journey that brings the warmth and aroma of a Mediterranean kitchen straight to your table. Imagine succulent chicken drumsticks, perfectly marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon, garlic, and aromatic Greek oregano, nestled atop a bed of fragrant lemon-infused rice, all baked to golden perfection in a single dish. This isn’t just easy; it’s effortlessly delicious, promising a satisfying dinner in under an hour with minimal cleanup. Get ready to discover your new favorite weeknight hero!

This cherished One Pot Greek Chicken and Rice recipe hails directly from my YiaYia – my beloved Greek grandmother – and it embodies the very essence of her cooking: straightforward, heartwarming, and utterly delicious. While the process itself is wonderfully uncomplicated, the resulting flavors are anything but simple. As this dish bakes in your oven, it fills your home with an intoxicating aroma that evokes memories of sun-drenched Greek islands and bustling family kitchens. It’s a testament to how humble ingredients, when combined with a touch of tradition, can create something truly extraordinary.

For those of us constantly seeking convenient yet wholesome dinner solutions, a reliable one-pot meal is a true lifesaver. And when it comes to ease, this recipe truly excels. There’s no need for laborious pre-browning of the chicken, nor constant hovering over the stove. The beauty lies in its hands-off nature, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your oven works its magic.

The only real “prep” involved is marinating the chicken, which is a breeze. You can toss all the marinade ingredients together in a resealable freezer bag for ultimate convenience – a fantastic hack for busy evenings. As for the optional sautéed diced onion, I often include it for an extra layer of savory depth, though it’s not strictly essential for the dish’s core flavor. It simply adds a delightful sweetness and texture that I personally adore when combined with rice.

While the undeniable allure of this recipe is its “one-pot” simplicity, I would be remiss if I didn’t wholeheartedly encourage you to consider making my Greek Lemon Potatoes alongside this dish. Yes, it means a little extra washing up, but the tangy, crispy perfection of these potatoes is an absolute game-changer and a match made in heaven for this chicken and rice. And, of course, a generous dollop of creamy Tzatziki is always a welcome, cooling accompaniment, adding a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS ONE POT GREEK CHICKEN AND RICE RECIPE

This recipe isn’t just another dinner idea; it’s a culinary embrace of Mediterranean flavors and effortless cooking. Here’s why this One Pot Greek Chicken and Rice will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen:

• Unforgettable Greek Flavors: Experience the authentic taste of Greece with a vibrant blend of lemon, garlic, and oregano infusing both the tender chicken and the fluffy rice. Each bite is a journey to the Mediterranean coast.
• Ultimate Convenience: The “one pot” promise delivers! All the cooking happens in a single baking dish, drastically cutting down on post-dinner cleanup. Spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying.
• Quick & Easy Weeknight Dinner: With minimal active preparation and hands-off baking, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Marinate in the morning or the night before, and dinner can be on the table in under an hour.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with lean protein, whole grains, and fresh ingredients, this meal offers a balanced and nutritious option for the whole family without sacrificing flavor.
• Simple, Everyday Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt for exotic items. This recipe uses common, accessible ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at any grocery store.
• Incredible Aroma: As it bakes, your kitchen will be filled with the most delightful, appetizing scents of lemon, garlic, and herbs, creating an inviting atmosphere that promises a delicious meal.
• Versatile & Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to your preferences. Swap chicken cuts, add your favorite vegetables, or adjust the seasonings to make it uniquely yours. It’s a forgiving recipe that encourages creativity.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by adults and children alike, this dish is hearty, flavorful, and comforting – making it an ideal choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS FOR AUTHENTIC GREEK FLAVOR

Creating this flavorful One Pot Greek Chicken and Rice is surprisingly simple, relying on a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients that truly shine. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to gather (with full measurements provided in the printable recipe card below):

• Chicken Drumsticks / Legs: I prefer drumsticks for their rich flavor, tender meat, and ability to stay moist during baking. They also cook beautifully and evenly in this one-pot method. Chicken thighs are an excellent alternative if you prefer dark meat. If using chicken breasts, you may need to adjust cooking times slightly to prevent them from drying out; consider boneless, skinless breasts and add them to the rice later in the cooking process.
• Oregano (preferably Greek): This is a cornerstone of Greek cuisine. Greek oregano has a distinct, robust, and slightly peppery flavor that truly elevates the dish. While regular dried oregano works, seeking out Greek oregano will make a noticeable difference in authenticity.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon is paramount. It provides the essential bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness of the chicken and infuses the rice with its signature Mediterranean zest. You’ll use both the juice for the marinade and the rice, and slices for garnish.
• Garlic: A generous amount of fresh garlic is key to building a robust flavor base. Minced garlic infuses the marinade and the rice with its pungent, aromatic qualities, a classic Greek pairing with lemon and oregano.
• Olive Oil: As the lifeblood of Mediterranean cooking, a good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential. It provides healthy fats, helps the marinade penetrate the chicken, and contributes to the overall richness of the dish.
• Rice: For this recipe, I recommend using either Basmati or short grain rice. Basmati rice offers a lovely fragrant quality and fluffy texture when cooked. Short grain rice (like Arborio, though not for risotto here) can also work, providing a slightly stickier, creamier result if preferred. Avoid quick-cook or parboiled rice, as their cooking times differ significantly.
• Chicken Stock: Using chicken stock instead of water is crucial for adding depth and savory flavor to the rice, ensuring it’s not bland. Opt for a low-sodium chicken stock so you can control the seasoning.
• Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are vital for enhancing all the other flavors and bringing balance to the dish. Season generously to taste throughout the cooking process.

Optional Enhancements:

While the core ingredients create a sensational meal, these additions can take your dish to the next level:

• Butter: A small amount of butter, especially when sautéing the optional onion, adds a touch of richness and a beautiful golden hue.
• Onion: Finely diced brown or yellow onion, sautéed until soft, adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the rice. It’s not strictly necessary, but highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor.
• Greek Tzatziki, to serve: This refreshing yogurt-cucumber dip is the perfect cool and creamy counterpoint to the savory chicken and rice. Serve a generous dollop on the side for an authentic Greek experience.

HOW TO MAKE ONE POT GREEK CHICKEN AND RICE – STEP BY STEP

Creating this delicious one-pot meal is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps for perfect results:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Begin by placing your chicken drumsticks in a medium-sized bowl or, for ultimate convenience, a large resealable freezer bag. Add the dried Greek oregano, minced garlic, olive oil, and the freshly squeezed juice from half of a lemon. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Use your hands (or gently shake the bag) to thoroughly mix everything together, ensuring each piece of chicken is well coated with the aromatic marinade. Once combined, cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For an even deeper flavor profile, you can marinate the chicken overnight.

Step 2: Initial Chicken Bake

Preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F. Once hot, arrange the marinated chicken drumsticks in a single layer within a suitable baking dish (a 9×13 inch rectangular dish works well). Discard any leftover marinade from the bowl or bag. Placing the chicken in a single layer ensures even cooking and promotes a lovely browning on the skin. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and cook for 15 minutes. This initial bake helps to render some of the fat and allows the chicken to start developing a beautiful golden crust before the rice is added.

Step 3 (Optional): Sauté the Onion for Added Depth

While the chicken is having its initial bake, you can prepare the optional onion. Heat 1 teaspoon of butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced brown or yellow onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent, typically 5-7 minutes. This step adds a subtle sweetness and another layer of savory flavor to the final dish. Once softened, remove the skillet from the heat and set the onion aside.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Chicken for the Final Bake

Carefully remove the baking dish with the partially cooked chicken from the oven. Gently transfer the chicken drumsticks to a clean plate and set them aside. Into the same baking dish, pour the chicken stock, uncooked rice, the fresh juice from the remaining half of the lemon, and the sautéed onion (if you opted to use it). Give everything a good stir to combine the ingredients and ensure the rice is evenly distributed in the liquid. Next, nestle the chicken drumsticks back on top of the rice mixture. Return the dish to the oven and continue baking for another 25-30 minutes, or until the rice has fully absorbed all the liquid, becoming tender and fluffy, and the chicken is thoroughly cooked through with a golden exterior. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 74°C / 165°F.

Step 5: Rest, Fluff, and Serve

Once the chicken and rice are cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven. Let it stand uncovered for a few minutes. This crucial resting period allows the rice to finish absorbing any remaining steam and become perfectly tender, while the chicken juices redistribute, ensuring maximum moisture and flavor. After resting, use a fork to gently fluff the rice. This separates the grains and creates a lighter texture. Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired, and serve your exquisite One Pot Greek Chicken and Rice immediately, perhaps with a side of Tzatziki or a fresh Greek salad.

PRO TIPS FOR PERFECTING YOUR ONE POT GREEK CHICKEN AND RICE

Achieving culinary perfection often comes down to a few key insights. Here are some pro tips to ensure your One Pot Greek Chicken and Rice turns out flawlessly every time, maximizing flavor and ease:

• Marination Time Matters (But is Flexible): While I often only manage 30 minutes to an hour of marinating due to busy schedules, aim for longer if possible! Marinating the chicken overnight (8-12 hours) in the fridge will significantly deepen the lemon, garlic, and oregano flavors, making the chicken incredibly tender and succulent. Even a quick 30-minute marinade will impart good flavor, so don’t stress if you’re short on time.
• Ensure Chicken Doneness with a Thermometer: For food safety and optimal texture, I highly recommend using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding the bone, to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F. This guarantees perfectly cooked chicken that’s both safe and juicy.
• Monitor Rice for Ideal Texture: The cooking time for rice can vary slightly depending on your oven, the type of rice, and your baking dish. Start checking the rice at the 20-minute mark during the final bake. If it seems too dry but not fully tender, you can add a splash more chicken stock or hot water (about ¼ cup at a time) and continue cooking. If it’s done but still a little too wet, let it rest for a few extra minutes uncovered to allow the steam to escape. Conversely, if it’s too mushy, it likely overcooked or had too much liquid.
• Scaling the Recipe: This recipe is designed to generously feed 2-3 people. If you’re cooking for a larger crowd, feel free to double the recipe. The key is to use a larger rectangular baking dish that is spacious enough to accommodate all the chicken drumsticks in a single layer for even cooking and browning. Ensure the rice layer isn’t too thick, as this can affect cooking time.
• Covering the Dish: While the recipe doesn’t explicitly call for covering, if you find your chicken browning too quickly or the rice drying out prematurely, you can loosely cover the baking dish with foil for the initial chicken bake. Remove the foil when you add the rice to allow for proper liquid absorption and final browning.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the dish to stand uncovered for a few minutes after baking is crucial. This helps the rice finish steaming and become fluffy, prevents it from sticking, and allows the chicken juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meal.
• Enhance the Crunch: For a little extra texture, you can briefly place the baking dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the very end of cooking (watch carefully!) to get an even crispier skin on the chicken drumsticks.

MORE GREEK-INSPIRED RECIPES YOU’LL LOVE

If you’ve fallen in love with the flavors of this One Pot Greek Chicken and Rice, you’ll be delighted to explore more of my favorite Greek recipes. These dishes pair beautifully together or stand strong as delicious meals on their own, bringing more Mediterranean goodness to your kitchen:

• Easy Greek Salad: A fresh, vibrant, and essential accompaniment to any Greek meal.
• Greek Chicken and Potatoes: Another fantastic one-pan meal featuring tender chicken and savory lemon potatoes.
• Greek Chicken Gyros: Recreate the popular street food at home with marinated chicken and classic toppings.
• Greek Roast Chicken: A traditional whole roast chicken recipe, bursting with herbs and lemon.
• Spanakopita: The iconic savory spinach and feta pie wrapped in crispy phyllo pastry.
• Greek Tzatziki: The ultimate cooling and creamy yogurt-cucumber dip.
• Greek Zucchini Fritters: Light, savory fritters perfect as an appetizer or side.
• Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken: While not Greek, this offers another quick and flavorful chicken dinner option!

I genuinely hope this One Pot Greek Chicken and Rice brings as much joy and deliciousness to your table as it does to mine. Your feedback is incredibly valuable to me, so please don’t hesitate to pop a comment and a star rating below to let me know how you enjoyed it!

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📋 RECIPE

One Pot Greek Chicken and Rice

Yield:
3

Prep Time:
5 minutes

Cook Time:
45 minutes

Total Time:
50 minutes

This One Pot Greek Chicken and Rice is quick, easy, and bursting with delicious Mediterranean flavors. It will be on the table in under an hour, using simple, everyday ingredients. The chicken drumsticks are marinated in lemon, garlic, and authentic Greek oregano, then cooked in the oven on top of the most flavorful lemon rice you’ll ever try. Plus, the convenience of one pan means significantly less washing up after!

Ingredients

• 6 Chicken Drumsticks / Legs
• 1 tablespoon Oregano (preferably Greek)
• 1 Lemon, halved
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
• 1 cup Basmati or Short Grain Rice
• 2 cups Chicken Stock
• Salt & Pepper

Optional

• ½ Brown or Yellow Onion, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon Butter
• Greek Tzatziki, to serve

Instructions

1. Place chicken, oregano, garlic, olive oil, and the juice from ½ of the lemon into a bowl or ziplock bag and season with salt and pepper. Mix together thoroughly to combine, then leave in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight, if desired, for deeper flavor).
2. Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F. Place marinated chicken drumsticks in a single layer in a square baking dish, discarding any leftover marinade, and place in the oven to cook for 15 minutes.
3. OPTIONAL STEP – Heat butter in a skillet on medium heat and sauté onion until softened (about 5-7 minutes). Set aside.
4. Carefully move chicken drumsticks to a plate. Pour chicken stock, rice, the juice from the remaining ½ of the lemon, and the sautéed onion (if using) into the baking dish and give it a stir to combine. Nestle the chicken on top of the rice mixture, then return to the oven to cook for 25-30 minutes or until the rice has fully absorbed the liquid and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 74°C / 165°F).
5. Let the dish stand uncovered for a few minutes after removing from the oven, then fluff the rice with a fork and serve immediately.

Notes

• I only ever remember to marinate the chicken right before I make this dish, so it generally only gets about 30 minutes to an hour to marinate. Feel free to leave it overnight though, if you remember, for enhanced flavor!
• I recommend using a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked through and reaches 74°C / 165°F. This guarantees both food safety and tender, juicy chicken.
• Cooking time for the rice will vary slightly based on your oven and dish. I recommend checking the rice at the 20-minute mark of the final bake and adjusting cooking time from there until it’s tender and all liquid is absorbed.
• This recipe is designed to feed 2-3 people (yielding 2 large serves, or split evenly between 3). Feel free to double the recipe to feed a bigger crowd – just be sure to use a larger rectangular baking dish that will fit all the chicken drumsticks in a single layer for even cooking.
• If you prefer, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs instead of drumsticks, as they also stay very moist and flavorful. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 3
Serving Size: 1

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 612Total Fat: 25gSaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 240mgSodium: 537mgCarbohydrates: 42gFiber: 2gSugar: 4gProtein: 52g