Greek Chicken with Lemon Rice and Tomatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together a delightful mix of textures and flavors, from the tender, seasoned chicken to the zesty, lemon-infused rice and the creamy feta cheese. The cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness, while the chickpeas provide added protein and texture. The combination of lemon, garlic, oregano, and dill is classic in Greek cuisine, delivering a vibrant taste that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or looking to impress guests, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1.5 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Lemon Rice:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 2 cups cooked basmati rice
• 15 oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 lemon, juiced

For the Cheese:

• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ tsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

For the Garnish:

• Lemon wedges
• Fresh dill, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
   • Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the diced chicken, tossing to coat evenly.
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the heat and set aside.
2. Make the Lemon Rice:
   • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
   • Add the minced garlic and dried oregano to the skillet, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Stir in the chopped spinach, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
   • Add the cooked basmati rice and chickpeas to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine. Drizzle the lemon juice over the mixture, stirring until evenly mixed and heated through. Remove from the heat.
3. Prepare the Cheese:
   • In a small bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, and fresh chopped dill. Stir to combine.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • Serve the lemon rice mixture on a platter or individual plates. Top with the cooked chicken, then sprinkle with the crumbled feta cheese mixture.
   • Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh dill for an added burst of flavor and color.
5. Serve:
   • Enjoy your delicious Greek Chicken with Lemon Rice and Tomatoes. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some warm pita bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and substitute with grilled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken or rice for extra heat.
• Herb Variations: Swap fresh dill for fresh mint or parsley for a different herbal note in the cheese mixture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the chicken and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or in a skillet with a little olive oil. You can also add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the rice moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice?

Yes, brown rice works well in this recipe, but it may take longer to cook. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

If you don’t have feta cheese, you can substitute with goat cheese or a mild mozzarella for a different creamy texture and flavor.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice in advance. Just store the components separately and reheat when ready to serve.

4. Is there a non-dairy version of this recipe?

Yes, you can skip the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative, such as a plant-based feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you like heat, you can add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or even some chopped fresh chili to the chicken or rice for an extra kick.

6. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with lamb, turkey, or even fish such as salmon for a different protein option.

7. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the rice.

8. How do I make sure the chicken stays tender?

To keep the chicken tender, avoid overcooking it. Cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink in the center and is golden brown on the outside.

9. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or olives to the rice for additional flavors and textures.

10. What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken with Lemon Rice and Tomatoes is a well-balanced, delicious meal that combines fresh vegetables, lean protein, and Mediterranean-inspired flavors. The bright lemony rice, tender chicken, and creamy feta cheese come together in a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the added bonus of being easy to prepare and customize, this dish will quickly become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Greece right in your own kitchen!

Print