Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 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
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 5 oz fresh spinach, chopped
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 15 oz chickpeas, canned and drained
- 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
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano (optional)
- Fresh oregano for garnish
Instructions
- How to Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat a high-sided, heavy-bottomed skillet (such as a cast iron or stainless steel pan) over medium heat for 2 minutes.
- Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and place the chicken thighs in the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes on one side, undisturbed, ensuring the oil does not burn. If the skillet gets too hot, reduce the heat to low-medium.
- Flip the chicken thighs, reduce heat to low-medium, and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- How to Make the Greek Lemon Rice: In the same skillet, add half of the halved grape tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Cook on medium heat for about 2 minutes, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Add the cooked rice and drained chickpeas, followed by 3 tablespoons of lemon juice. Add the remaining grape tomatoes and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on medium heat. If desired, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
- How to Make the Feta Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine cubed feta cheese with extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, and fresh oregano (if using). Mix until the herbs and oil coat the feta cheese.
- Assembly: Mix half of the feta cheese mixture into the skillet with the lemon rice. Add the sliced cooked chicken on top of the rice and heat through on medium heat.
- Top the dish with the remaining feta cheese mixture and sprinkle with fresh oregano. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a drizzle of olive oil over the chicken and rice before serving.
- You can substitute spinach with other greens like kale or arugula if desired.
- For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken with grilled tofu or a veggie protein source.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Category: Main Course, One-Pot Meals
- Method: Sautéing, Cooking
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg