Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice – Easy 30-Minute One-Pot Meal

Why Make This Recipe

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a delightful recipe that brings together bright, fresh flavors in a quick and easy one-pot meal. If you’re looking for something delicious that doesn’t take all day to prepare, this dish is perfect for you. Within just 30 minutes, you can have a full, balanced meal that the whole family will love.

The combination of tender chicken thighs, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs makes every bite satisfying. Plus, it’s a nutritious meal, packed with protein, veggies, and whole grains. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to follow. So put on your apron and let’s dive into making this wonderful meal!

How to Make Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

Making Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is straightforward. Let’s break it down step by step so you can easily replicate it in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 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
• 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 chickpeas (canned and drained)
• 6 oz feta cheese (cubed)
• 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

For special dietary needs:

• For a dairy-free option, omit the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.
• If you’re gluten-sensitive, this dish is naturally gluten-free.
• You can also substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or tofu for a vegetarian version.

Directions

Follow these simple steps to make Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the chicken thighs with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of paprika, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Coat the chicken well with these spices. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the pot, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Greek Lemon Rice

In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced grape tomatoes and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the garlic becomes fragrant. Next, add another teaspoon of dried oregano and ¼ teaspoon of salt, stirring to combine.

Now, add the chopped spinach to the pot, allowing it to wilt for a minute. After that, pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and mix well.

Add the cooked jasmine rice and the drained chickpeas to the tomato and spinach mixture. Stir everything together until well combined. Allow the mixture to heat through for a couple of minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Feta Cheese Mixture

While the rice and veggies are heating, in a small bowl, combine the cubed feta cheese, 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and ¼ teaspoon of dried oregano. Gently mix to coat the feta cheese with the oil and seasoning.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Once the rice and vegetable mixture is hot, return the cooked chicken thighs to the pot. Stir gently to incorporate everything together without breaking up the chicken. When well combined, top the dish with the prepared feta cheese mixture. If you like, sprinkle fresh oregano on top for garnish.

And there you have it! Your Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is ready to be served.

How to Serve Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

Serve this dish warm straight from the pot. It’s a complete meal on its own but pairs nicely with a simple side salad or some crusty bread if you desire. If you like a bit of extra zing, consider serving it with lemon wedges on the side.

You can also sprinkle more fresh herbs on top right before serving, as this adds a beautiful touch and enhances the flavors even more. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or enjoying after a long day.

How to Store Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

Leftovers can be stored easily in an airtight container in the fridge. For best results, try to consume them within 3-4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

If you made a large batch and want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it. Place your cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.

Tips to Make Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

1. Prep Ahead: If you have time, marinate the chicken with the spices the night before. This will enhance the flavor.

2. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the dish. If you have access to fresh oregano or even parsley, sprinkle it on top just before serving.

3. Adjust the Heat: If you find red pepper flakes too spicy, feel free to reduce the amount or omit it altogether.

4. Make it Vegetarian: To turn this into a vegetarian dish, simply swap chicken for tofu or keep it as is by adding more chickpeas and veggies.

5. Experiment with Grains: While jasmine rice works beautifully, you can also use brown rice or quinoa for a different texture and flavor profile.

Variation

There are many ways to play around with this recipe. Here are a few quick ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or even artichokes to enhance the dish’s nutritional value and add more colors.
• Changing Proteins: As mentioned earlier, feel free to use chicken breasts instead of thighs or go completely plant-based with chickpeas and tofu.
• Lemon Herb Sauce: Create a lemon herb sauce to drizzle over the top before serving for an extra burst of flavor. Simply whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and minced garlic with your favorite herbs.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Cooking directly from frozen will require extra time and can lead to uneven cooking.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. What if I don’t have chickpeas?
If you don’t have chickpeas, you can substitute them with any canned beans you have on hand, like black beans or white beans. You could also skip them entirely.

4. Can I use different types of rice?
Absolutely! While jasmine rice is used in this recipe for its delightful aroma, brown rice, basmati rice, or even cauliflower rice can be substituted.

5. How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and vegetables and store them in the fridge. Just assemble and cook the dish when you’re ready to serve. Alternatively, you can cook the entire dish and reheat it later for convenience.

Enjoy your flavorful journey while making Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice! This dish is not just quick and easy; it’s full of wholesome ingredients that will charm your taste buds and nourish your body. Happy cooking!

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