Are you craving a delicious, healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken Feta Cheese Spinach recipe is a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. Packed with protein, iron, and flavor, this easy recipe is perfect for both beginners in the kitchen and experienced cooks looking for a simple yet elegant dish. It's one of those homemade cooking triumphs that feels both impressive and effortlessly achievable.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 oz fresh spinach
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Onion
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Wilt the Spinach
Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. If using sun-dried tomatoes, add them now.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Sprinkle in the oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
Step 4: Stir in Feta and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese until melted and creamy. Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal. This delicious dish is also excellent on its own as part of a healthy meal plan.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, oregano, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. This will ensure it browns properly and doesn't steam.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the mixture for a few more minutes uncovered.
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Feta Spinach: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream along with the feta cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with 1 cup of chickpeas or lentils for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Chicken Feta Cheese Spinach recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious addition to your recipe collection. It's a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. Enjoy this versatile and flavorful dish!