If you are looking for a vibrant and satisfying meal that brings together fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients, this Chicken Rice Feta Tomatoes Recipe is an absolute winner. It perfectly balances tender chicken, fluffy rice, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, creating a dish that feels both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or inviting friends over for a casual dinner, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites thanks to its simplicity and Mediterranean charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here, just simple, well-chosen ingredients that build layers of deliciousness. Each component plays a crucial role—from the juicy chicken adding protein and richness, to the bright tomatoes and creamy feta that bring bursts of freshness and tang.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For that silky base that helps brown the chicken perfectly.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces): Tender, lean protein that soaks up all those lovely herbs and spices.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and bite.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a fragrant herbal note reminiscent of Mediterranean sunshine.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a savory depth that wakes up every ingredient.
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice: The fluffy, tender foundation that absorbs all those flavorful juices.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Infuses the rice with richness and moisture.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved): Sweet and vibrant, they soften into little bursts of juiciness.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Offers creamy, salty tang that elevates the whole dish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional): A fresh, green finish that brightens every bite.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon: Adds a zesty pop that balances all the savory flavors.
How to Make Chicken Rice Feta Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Cook the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. This step is key because it locks in the natural juices and develops a lovely flavor base. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
Step 2: Toast the Garlic and Rice
Into the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. This brief cooking releases garlic’s aromatic oils without burning it. Immediately add the uncooked rice and stir it around, toasting it for 1 to 2 minutes. This not only enhances the rice’s flavor but also helps the grains stay separate when cooked.
Step 3: Simmer the Rice in Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet tightly and let the rice cook undisturbed for 15 minutes. This steam-cooking method is what makes the rice tender and fluffy while absorbing all that savory broth flavor.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Continue Cooking
After 15 minutes, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cover the skillet again. Let it cook for 5 more minutes so the tomatoes soften, releasing their sweetness and color into the rice. This step adds vibrance to both the taste and appearance of the dish.
Step 5: Finish with Chicken, Feta, and Lemon
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently stir everything together. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is heated through. Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in fresh lemon juice and crumbled feta cheese for a creamy tang. If you have fresh parsley or basil on hand, sprinkle some on top to add a bright herbal note that completes this delightful recipe.
How to Serve Chicken Rice Feta Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil is ideal to finish this dish, adding a refreshing color and fragrance that contrast beautifully with the warm, creamy elements. A little extra crumbled feta on top can’t hurt either if you love that salty tang!
Side Dishes
This Chicken Rice Feta Tomatoes Recipe can stand proudly on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables makes the meal feel even more special and well-rounded. For a heartier option, warm pita bread alongside is a fantastic choice to soak up every last bit of the delicious juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style vibe. Alternatively, plate individual portions and drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or a balsamic glaze for an elegant touch. You can also scoop the chicken and rice mix into hollowed-out bell peppers or small bowls made of lettuce leaves for a fun, colorful presentation that impresses guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it just as delicious the next day. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to preserve freshness.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully, making it a smart option for meal prep. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a quick meal, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave covered until warmed through. Stir in a little more fresh lemon juice or herbs after reheating to brighten the flavors back up.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber, but remember to increase both the cooking time and the amount of chicken broth to ensure it cooks fully and stays tender.
What can I add to this recipe for extra veggies?
Spinach, kale, or even chopped zucchini work wonderfully. Add them in with the tomatoes during the last 5 minutes of cooking so they wilt gently without losing their freshness.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients in this Chicken Rice Feta Tomatoes Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and tasty meal for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs provide extra juiciness and flavor, so they can be a fantastic alternative. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through before removing from the skillet.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s mild by design, focusing on fresh, herby, and tangy flavors. However, you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of a kick.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Rice Feta Tomatoes Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh, straightforward ingredients coming together in harmony. It’s incredibly easy to make but feels special enough to serve any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a regular on your dinner table—you’ll love how comforting and vibrant it tastes all at once!
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Chicken Rice Feta Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This vibrant Mediterranean-inspired Chicken Rice with Feta and Tomatoes is a flavorful, one-skillet meal featuring tender chicken, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a comforting yet healthy weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients with straightforward stovetop cooking to deliver a balanced dish full of protein and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Produce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Pantry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Dairy
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and oregano, and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Toast the Rice: Stir in the uncooked rice and toast it by cooking for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the grains with the oil and garlic flavor.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 15 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the liquid.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the rice is tender and the tomatoes have softened.
- Combine and Heat Through: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stir everything together, and cook for 2 to 3 more minutes until the dish is heated through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, stir in the lemon juice and crumbled feta cheese. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Brown rice can be substituted for white rice; just increase the cooking time and add more liquid as needed.
- Add Kalamata olives or fresh spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- This dish stores well and is ideal for meal prep; refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
