Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This feta cheese and chicken recipe is a Mediterranean-inspired dream, bursting with fresh herbs, juicy chicken, and the salty tang of feta. It's perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together with friends and family. This easy recipe is surprisingly simple to make, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a delicious, healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
Instructions:
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Season and Sauté: Season the chicken cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven 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.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped red onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
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Combine and Cook: Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, and parsley. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened. If using Kalamata olives, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in the crumbled feta cheese during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to melt slightly into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, over rice, quinoa, or couscous for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Feta and Chicken Dish:
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Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam.
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Fresh herbs are key: Using fresh oregano and parsley elevates the flavor of this dish significantly. If fresh herbs aren't available, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley.
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Adjust the feta: If you prefer a stronger feta flavor, feel free to add more. Conversely, if you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount.
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Spice it up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
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Make it a one-pan meal: For an even easier cleanup, roast the chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan instead of using a skillet. Simply toss the chicken and vegetables with olive oil, herbs, and spices before roasting at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Variations:
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Lemon-Herb Chicken and Feta: Add the juice and zest of one lemon to the sauce for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
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Spinach and Feta Chicken: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. The spinach will wilt and add a delightful texture and nutritional boost.
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Creamy Feta Chicken: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This delicious feta cheese and chicken recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals and easy recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy the wonderful flavors of the Mediterranean in your own kitchen!