Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice with Chickpeas, Spinach, and Cherry Tomatoes
Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice with Chickpeas, Spinach, and Cherry Tomatoes
Introduction
Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a colorful and healthy dish packed with flavors. It combines tender chicken, creamy chickpeas, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all brought together with a zesty lemon twist. It’s perfect for a family meal or a quick weeknight dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to make and filled with nutritious ingredients. It’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze! Plus, it’s full of protein and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for everyone.
How to Make Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice with Chickpeas, Spinach, and Cherry Tomatoes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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In a large pot or skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
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Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir to coat the rice with the oil and juices.
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Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
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Add the chickpeas, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and lemon juice. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes or until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
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Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Serve Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice
Serve this dish hot from the pot. You can add more lemon juice on top for an extra zing. It’s lovely on its own or with a side of Greek yogurt.
How to Store Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water.
Tips to Make Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice
- Make sure to cube the chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- Rinse the chickpeas well to remove any extra salt or preservatives before adding them to the dish.
- Feel free to taste as you cook and adjust the seasonings to your liking!
Variation (If Any)
You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more color and flavor. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option.
FAQs
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Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and just reheat when you are ready to eat. -
Is this meal good for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well and can be easily portioned for lunches or dinners throughout the week.