Greek Chicken & Lemon Rice with Chickpeas

1. 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
2. 1 tsp dried oregano
3. 1 tsp paprika
4. 1/4 tsp salt
5. 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
6. 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Lemon Rice:

1. 1 tbsp olive oil
2. 8 oz grape tomatoes, halved
3. 5 cloves garlic, minced
4. 1 tsp dried oregano
5. 1/4 tsp salt
6. 5 oz fresh spinach, chopped
7. 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
8. 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
9. 15 oz chickpeas, canned and drained
10. 6 oz feta cheese, crumbled
11. Fresh parsley, for garnish

•  In a bowl, combine chicken, oregano, paprika, salt, and red pepper flakes.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through.
• Remove from pan and set aside.

•  In the same skillet, add olive oil, grape tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes, or until tomatoes are softened.
• Add spinach and cook until wilted.
• Stir in lemon juice, cooked rice, and chickpeas.
• Add cooked chicken to the skillet and heat through.
• Crumble feta cheese over the dish and garnish with fresh parsley
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

1. Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh lemons, good-quality olive oil, and aromatic spices make a big difference in the flavor and aroma of this dish.
2. Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook the chicken until it’s just cooked through and still juicy.
3. Use the right type of rice: Greek rice, also known as Carolina rice, is a short-grain rice that’s perfect for absorbing the flavorful liquid.
4. Add some heat: Mix in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
5. Make it ahead: Prepare the lemon rice and chickpeas ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze until ready to use.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

– Calories: 420
– Protein: 35g
– Fat: 20g
– Saturated Fat: 3.5g
– Cholesterol: 60mg
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 5g
– Sugar: 5g
– Sodium: 400mg

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad or a more substantial grain salad pairs perfectly with this dish.
2. Add some grilled vegetables: Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant add some extra flavor and nutrients.
3. Serve with pita bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for sopping up the flavorful sauce.
4. Make it a meal prep: Prepare the lemon rice and chickpeas ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze until ready to use.