Greek Chicken with Lemon Rice Recipe

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Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this one-pot Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice recipe. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal, this dish combines juicy chicken thighs seasoned with herbs and spices, paired with a lemon-infused rice that’s tossed with fresh vegetables and tangy feta cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a casual dining experience.

Ingredients:

For the 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

For the 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 and rinsed

For the 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 the chicken thighs with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and red pepper flakes.
    • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Cook the Greek Lemon Rice:
    • In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and sliced grape tomatoes until the tomatoes start to soften.
    • Stir in the dried oregano, salt, and chopped spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts.
    • Add the cooked jasmine rice, chickpeas, and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the skillet. Mix well until all ingredients are heated through and evenly distributed.
  3. Prepare the Feta Cheese Mixture:
    • In a small bowl, combine the diced feta cheese, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and dried oregano. Mix gently to combine. If using, stir in the chopped fresh oregano.
  4. Combine and Serve:
    • Slice the cooked chicken thighs and place them back into the skillet over the rice. Reduce heat to low to keep everything warm.
    • Sprinkle the feta cheese mixture over the chicken and rice.
    • Garnish with fresh oregano before serving.

Conclusion:

This Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, from the spiced and tender chicken to the creamy feta and vibrant lemon rice. It’s a full meal that requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy evenings. Enjoy the taste of Greece in your own kitchen with this easy and satisfying dish.