Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

This Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is the perfect balance of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Juicy, spiced chicken thighs are cooked to perfection and paired with fragrant lemon-infused jasmine rice, chickpeas, and fresh spinach. The dish is then topped with creamy feta cheese and a touch of oregano for that signature Mediterranean taste.

Not only is this one-pot meal incredibly delicious, but it’s also quick and easy to make perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Whether you’re craving something hearty yet fresh, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Pair it with a crisp Greek salad for the ultimate Mediterranean feast.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Chicken:
  • 1.5 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Greek Lemon Rice:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 8 oz grape tomatoes, sliced in half
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 5 oz fresh spinach, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
  • 15 oz canned chickpeas, drained

• Feta Cheese Mixture:

  • 6 oz feta cheese, diced into small cubes
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano (optional)
  • Fresh oregano for garnish

Directions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Season chicken thighs with oregano, paprika, salt, and red pepper flakes.
   • Heat a high-sided skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes, then add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
   • Cook chicken for 5 minutes on one side without moving it.
   • Flip and cook for another 5 minutes or until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
   • Remove from skillet and set aside.

2. Prepare the Greek Lemon Rice:

   • In the same skillet, add half of the grape tomatoes, garlic, oregano, salt, and olive oil.
   • Cook for 2 minutes until tomatoes soften.
   • Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
   • Add cooked rice, drained chickpeas, and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice.
   • Stir well and reheat for a few minutes.

3. Make the Feta Cheese Mixture:

   • In a bowl, mix diced feta with olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, and fresh oregano.

4. Assemble the Dish:

   • Stir half of the feta mixture into the skillet with lemon rice.
   • Slice cooked chicken and place on top of the rice.
   • Top with the remaining feta mixture and garnish with fresh oregano.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 755 kcal per serving | Servings: 4

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice: A Flavorful One-Pot Mediterranean Delight

Mediterranean cuisine is widely celebrated for its vibrant flavors, nutritious ingredients, and simple yet satisfying cooking techniques. One such dish that embodies the essence of Mediterranean cooking is Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice. This one-pot recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken thighs with aromatic jasmine rice, fresh vegetables, chickpeas, and tangy feta cheese, all brought together with a burst of fresh lemon juice.

Whether you are looking for a quick and easy meal for a busy weeknight or a dish that can be prepared in advance for meal prep, Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a fantastic option. It offers a well balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, making it a wholesome and delicious meal that suits various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a hassle-free weeknight dinner.
• One-Pot Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, this meal is both convenient and practical.
• Nutritious & Balanced: It includes lean protein (chicken), fiber-rich legumes (chickpeas), and nutrient-packed vegetables (spinach and tomatoes).
• Full of Mediterranean Flavors: The combination of lemon, oregano, paprika, and feta cheese gives this dish a bold, fresh, and slightly tangy flavor profile.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge and even freezes beautifully, making it perfect for planning ahead.

The Mediterranean Diet Influence

The Mediterranean diet is renowned for its heart-healthy benefits, featuring fresh vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats (like olive oil), and whole grains. This dish aligns perfectly with the diet’s principles, incorporating:

• Chicken: A lean source of protein that helps build and maintain muscle while keeping you full for longer.
• Lemon: Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, lemon juice not only adds a bright, zesty flavor but also aids digestion.
• Rice: Jasmine rice provides an excellent source of carbohydrates, offering sustained energy throughout the day.
• Chickpeas: These legumes are rich in fiber and plant-based protein, supporting digestive health and keeping you satisfied.
• Spinach & Tomatoes: Both vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that boost overall health.
• Feta Cheese: A staple in Greek cuisine, feta adds a creamy, tangy bite to the dish while offering a source of calcium and probiotics.

Serving Suggestions

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a versatile dish that can be served on its own or paired with other Mediterranean sides for a well-rounded meal. Here are a few ideas:

• Greek Salad: A crisp salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil and lemon juice.
• Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based dip with garlic, cucumber, and dill that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant make excellent side dishes that enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
• Toasted Pita Bread: Serve with warm pita to scoop up the delicious rice and feta mixture.
• Hummus & Olives: For an extra Mediterranean touch, add a side of hummus and kalamata olives.

Variations & Substitutions

One of the best aspects of this dish is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs:

• Make It Dairy-Free: Skip the feta cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free feta alternative.
• Use Different Proteins: Instead of chicken thighs, you can use chicken breasts, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Try Different Grains: If you prefer a more whole-grain approach, swap jasmine rice for brown rice, quinoa, or orzo pasta.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to mix in bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrients.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is an excellent meal prep option, as it stores well and maintains its flavor and texture over time.

• In the Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• In the Freezer: This dish is freezer-friendly and can be stored for up to 2 months in a sealed container.
• Reheating Tips: When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice to revive the flavors and prevent dryness. You can warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it in 30-second intervals.

Health Benefits of Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

This dish isn’t just delicious it’s also packed with essential nutrients that support overall health:

• Heart Health: The combination of olive oil, lean protein, and fiber-rich chickpeas contributes to lower cholesterol levels and reduced risk of heart disease.
• Weight Management: With a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs, this dish keeps you full and satisfied, reducing unnecessary snacking.
• Digestive Health: The fiber from chickpeas and spinach promotes healthy digestion and gut health.
• Bone Health: The feta cheese provides calcium and probiotics, which are essential for strong bones and a healthy immune system.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a perfect representation of Mediterranean cuisine, combining fresh, wholesome ingredients with bold flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick one-pot meal, a nutritious dinner option, or a meal prep-friendly recipe, this dish checks all the boxes.

With its bright lemony zing, fragrant herbs, and the rich, savory combination of chicken and feta cheese, this dish is comforting, satisfying, and absolutely delicious. Serve it with a fresh Greek salad or a side of hummus for an authentic Mediterranean feast.

So, next time you’re craving a flavorful, healthy meal, give this Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice a try. It might just become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!