Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice with Chickpeas, Spinach, Grape Tomatoes, and Feta Cheese is a delightful one-pan meal

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice with Chickpeas, Spinach, Grape Tomatoes, and Feta Cheese is a delightful one-pan meal that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your dinner table in just 30 minutes. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or meal prep. Below is a comprehensive guide to creating this delicious recipe, including ingredients, cooking instructions, nutritional information, and helpful tips.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes!
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or side.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs skinless boneless chicken thighs
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Greek Lemon Rice

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 8 oz grape tomatoes, sliced in half
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp salt
• 5 oz fresh spinach, chopped
• 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or rice of choice)
• 15 oz canned chickpeas, drained

For the Feta Cheese Mixture

• 6 oz feta cheese, diced into small cubes
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ¼ tsp dried oregano
• Optional: 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano for garnish

Grocery List

1. Skinless boneless chicken thighs (1.5 lbs)
2. Dried oregano (small jar)
3. Paprika (small jar)
4. Salt (small jar)
5. Red pepper flakes (small jar)
6. Olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
7. Grape tomatoes (8 oz)
8. Garlic (5 cloves)
9. Fresh spinach (5 oz)
10. Lemons (2 for juice)
11. Jasmine rice (or rice of choice)
12. Canned chickpeas (15 oz)
13. Feta cheese (6 oz)

Cooking Costs

The estimated cost for this recipe varies by location but typically ranges from $15 to $25 depending on ingredient prices in your area.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and red pepper flakes.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Greek Lemon Rice

1. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add half of the sliced grape tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, and salt; sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the chopped spinach until wilted.
4. Add cooked rice and drained chickpeas to the skillet.
5. Pour in freshly squeezed lemon juice and add the remaining grape tomatoes; stir to combine.

Step 3: Prepare the Feta Cheese Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, mix cubed feta cheese with extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and dried oregano.
2. Combine well so that the cheese is coated with the mixture.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Mix half of the feta cheese mixture into the skillet with lemon rice.
2. Slice the cooked chicken and place it back into the skillet; reheat gently on medium heat.
3. Top with the remaining feta mixture and sprinkle fresh oregano if desired.
4. Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 8g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Tips and Notes

• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats well; make extra for lunch!
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute feta cheese with avocado or omit it entirely.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with more chickpeas or tofu for a meatless meal.

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