This dish combines juicy chicken, fragrant rice, tangy feta, and sweet tomatoes for a simple yet irresistible meal. The fresh parsley and lemon zest brighten up the whole plate, bringing a burst of flavor in every bite.
The combination of savory ingredients with a Mediterranean twist makes it both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this chicken, rice, feta, and tomatoes dish is sure to be a hit.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Cook the chicken in the skillet for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add rice and stir for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the grains.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- While the rice cooks, cut the chicken into strips and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
- Add the sliced chicken on top, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Chicken, Rice, Feta & Tomatoes: A Fresh Mediterranean Delight
This Chicken, Rice, Feta & Tomatoes recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It brings together juicy, golden-brown chicken breasts, tender rice, and vibrant cherry tomatoes, all brought to life with a burst of tangy feta cheese and fresh parsley. The addition of lemon juice and zest not only brightens up the dish but adds a zesty note that perfectly complements the richness of the feta and the savoriness of the chicken. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also quick enough for a satisfying weeknight meal that’s full of Mediterranean-inspired goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick, balanced meal that’s bursting with flavor, this Chicken, Rice, Feta & Tomatoes dish is your go-to recipe. The combination of protein-rich chicken, hearty rice, and fresh vegetables makes it a one-pan meal that can feed the whole family. The feta cheese provides a creamy and tangy kick, while the tomatoes bring a touch of sweetness, creating the perfect balance of flavors.
One of the best parts about this recipe is its simplicity. The ingredients are easily accessible, and the dish comes together in just 35 minutes. You can also customize it to your preferences by adding or substituting different vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or olives, or swapping out the rice for quinoa or couscous.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Chicken, Rice, Feta & Tomatoes recipe is also fantastic for meal prep. You can easily make a double batch and store it in the fridge for a few days. It keeps well and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for lunch or dinner on busy days. Simply store the chicken and rice mixture in airtight containers, and you’ll have a ready-to-eat, healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
A Mediterranean Twist on Comfort Food
Mediterranean cuisine is known for its fresh, vibrant flavors, and this dish captures that essence perfectly. The chicken is seasoned with Mediterranean spices like oregano and garlic, giving it a fragrant and savory depth. The addition of feta cheese not only enhances the dish but also makes it feel like a comforting, indulgent meal. The rice provides a neutral base, allowing all the flavors to shine.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. A glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing lemony beverage would complement it beautifully.
How to Make Chicken, Rice, Feta & Tomatoes
This dish is as easy as it is delicious, and it comes together in just a few simple steps. Let’s break down how you can create this flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal.
1. Cooking the Chicken
The key to perfectly cooked chicken breasts is to ensure they stay juicy and tender. In this recipe, you’ll season the chicken breasts with a bit of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano for that classic Mediterranean flavor. Cooking the chicken in a hot skillet ensures a nice sear, locking in the juices. You only need to cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, which allows it to brown and cook through while remaining juicy inside.
2. Toasting the Rice
For extra flavor, you’ll lightly toast the rice in the same skillet you used for the chicken. This step is simple—just add the uncooked rice and let it cook for a minute or two, stirring occasionally. The slight toasting gives the rice a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy feta and sweet tomatoes.
3. Adding the Broth and Simmering
Once the rice is toasted, add the chicken broth, bring it to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let the rice simmer until it’s fully cooked. The chicken broth infuses the rice with flavor, making it rich and savory. You’ll know it’s ready when all the liquid is absorbed, and the rice is tender and fluffy.
4. Bringing It All Together
Once the rice is cooked, it’s time to assemble the dish. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest, which give the meal a fresh, zesty flavor. The cherry tomatoes and feta cheese come next—fold them into the rice to gently warm through. The feta cheese will start to soften, creating little pockets of creamy goodness throughout the dish.
Finally, slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it on top of the rice mixture. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and an additional burst of freshness.
Customizing the Recipe
While this recipe is delicious as-is, you can make it your own by experimenting with various ingredients. Here are some ideas for customization:
- Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. Sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, or olives would make great additions.
- Herbs: If you want to elevate the flavors, try adding a bit of fresh mint or basil alongside the parsley. They’ll provide a lovely aromatic touch.
- Grains: Swap the rice for a whole grain like quinoa, couscous, or farro for a unique twist. Each grain will offer a slightly different texture but still pair well with the Mediterranean flavors.
- Spices: If you love a bit of heat, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes or smoked paprika into the rice while it’s cooking for a subtle kick.
Why This Recipe Works
- Balanced Flavors: The rich flavors of the chicken, the freshness of the tomatoes, and the creaminess of the feta all come together beautifully. The lemon zest adds a refreshing zing, balancing the savory ingredients.
- Nutrient-Rich: This dish is full of protein from the chicken and feta, as well as fiber from the rice. The tomatoes and parsley bring antioxidants and vitamins, making it a well-rounded meal.
- Versatile: Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or preparing it ahead for meal prep, this recipe is flexible and easy to adapt to your needs.
Why You Should Try It Today
If you’re looking for a flavorful, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that’s also sure to impress, this Chicken, Rice, Feta & Tomatoes recipe is a must-try. It brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your dinner table, and its simplicity makes it a perfect choice for both beginners and seasoned home cooks.
Storage and Leftovers
This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for leftovers. Store the chicken and rice mixture in an airtight container and reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. If you find that the rice has dried out a little, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water before reheating to bring back its moisture.
You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then warm it up gently in a skillet or microwave.
Perfect Pairings for Chicken, Rice, Feta & Tomatoes
- Side Salad: A simple Mediterranean salad with cucumber, olives, red onion, and a lemon-oregano vinaigrette would complement the flavors in this dish perfectly.
- Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up any extra juices or sauce. A warm baguette or pita would pair wonderfully with the meal.
- Wine: A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, would enhance the bright, fresh flavors of this dish. If you prefer red, a light red like Pinot Noir would also work well.
With all these extra details, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, Chicken, Rice, Feta & Tomatoes is a satisfying, healthy, and flavorful option everyone will enjoy!
Conclusion
This Chicken, Rice, Feta & Tomatoes recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy meal prep option, or a fresh Mediterranean-inspired dish to serve at a family gathering, this recipe delivers every time. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, tangy feta, and juicy tomatoes creates a satisfying and flavorful meal that everyone will love.
With its simplicity, versatility, and bright Mediterranean flavors, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, customizable to your tastes, and keeps well for leftovers. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try—it’s a healthy, delicious, and easy way to bring a little taste of the Mediterranean to your dinner table.