If you are looking for a delightful, wholesome dish that brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your weeknight dinner, the Chicken, Rice, Feta, and Tomato Skillet Meal Recipe is your new best friend. This recipe is a fantastic combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese all cooked together in one skillet, making for an easy meal that bursts with freshness and heartiness in every bite. It’s a quick, healthy, and satisfying dish that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting plate perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe leans on straightforward ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the protein-packed chicken to the creamy feta and the sweet pop of tomatoes, every component is essential to achieving the vibrant appeal of this skillet meal.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein superstar that soaks up the marinade beautifully for juicy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used in the marinade to enrich the chicken with a smooth, fruity base note.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: The fundamental seasonings that enhance all natural flavors in the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle yet savory depth to the chicken seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a mild sweetness and aromatic quality.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice): Provides a fluffy, tender bed that absorbs the broth’s delicious savory juices.
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water): The cooking liquid that infuses the rice with savory warmth and richness.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These add bursts of juicy freshness and vibrant color throughout the dish.
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled: Brings a bold, salty creaminess that perfectly balances the tomatoes’ sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional): For bright herbaceous notes and lovely presentation.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken, ensuring a golden, crispy outside.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds tangy brightness in the marinade that lifts every flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a warm, fragrant Mediterranean earthiness to the chicken.
How to Make Chicken, Rice, Feta, and Tomato Skillet Meal Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl to create a zesty marinade. Coat your chicken breasts thoroughly with this mixture for at least 15 minutes in the fridge. This step is key for infusing beautiful Mediterranean flavors and keeping the chicken tender and juicy once cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
While the chicken marinates, combine the rice with chicken broth or water in a pot. Bring it to a boil, cover with a lid, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently until all the liquid is absorbed. This yields perfectly fluffy rice that serves as the comforting base for your skillet meal.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your marinated chicken breasts with additional salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for extra flavor. Cook the chicken for roughly 6 to 7 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let it rest briefly before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently toss together the cooked rice, sliced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. This combination not only creates a pleasing mix of textures but also a harmonious melody of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors that embody the essence of this skillet meal recipe.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Serve this wholesome Chicken, Rice, Feta, and Tomato Skillet Meal Recipe immediately, while everything is warm and inviting. It’s perfect on its own or accompanied by a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, nourishing dinner.
How to Serve Chicken, Rice, Feta, and Tomato Skillet Meal Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a simple yet elegant way to add an herbal punch and uplift the presentation of your skillet meal. You can also try a few lemon zest strands or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil to take the flavors up a notch.
Side Dishes
To round out the meal, consider a side of garlicky sautéed greens like spinach or kale, a crisp cucumber salad, or even some rustic crusty bread. These sides add lovely contrasting textures and balance the hearty elements in the skillet.
Creative Ways to Present
Present this Chicken, Rice, Feta, and Tomato Skillet Meal Recipe in charming individual bowls or layered in a deep platter for family-style sharing. Top each serving with a fresh wedge of lemon for an interactive burst of citrus, or serve alongside tzatziki sauce for an authentic Mediterranean twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken, Rice, Feta, and Tomato Skillet Meal Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it ideal for quick lunches or easy dinner reheats during a busy week.
Freezing
If you want to keep this meal for longer, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Make sure to cool everything completely before freezing to preserve texture and flavor. The dish should stay good for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating
When reheating, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the rice and prevent it from drying out. The chicken and tomatoes reheat beautifully without losing their juicy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works perfectly in this recipe for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, though it will require a longer cooking time (about 25-30 minutes) and a bit more liquid.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Chicken, Rice, Feta, and Tomato Skillet Meal Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth or water and ensure all seasonings are gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can swap the chicken for hearty roasted vegetables like eggplant and zucchini or use chickpeas for protein to create a delightful vegetarian version without losing the satisfying elements.
What’s the best way to store leftovers to keep the feta from getting soggy?
It’s best to store the feta separately or add it fresh when reheating to maintain its crumbly texture. If mixed in before storing, it may soften but will still add flavor.
Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken several hours ahead or even the night before. Cooking the rice and chicken ahead of time also works well, just assemble and reheat when ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken, Rice, Feta, and Tomato Skillet Meal Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines ease and elegance in one pan. Its bright flavors and satisfying textures make it a perfect dinner any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how effortlessly delicious a simple skillet meal can be!
Print
Chicken, Rice, Feta, and Tomato Skillet Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This quick and healthy Chicken, Rice, Feta, and Tomatoes recipe combines flavorful marinated chicken breasts with fluffy rice, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese for a well-balanced, satisfying meal. Perfect for a nutritious dinner, it features simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade and Cooking
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for marinade)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (marinade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste (for seasoning)
For the Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
For the Salad Mix
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly with this marinade and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Cook the Rice: In a pot, combine the rice with chicken broth or water. Bring it to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15-18 minutes if using white rice, or 25-30 minutes for brown rice. Once cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the marinated chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Place them in the skillet and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Assemble the Dish: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sliced chicken breasts, halved cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients evenly. Garnish with fresh parsley if using.
- Serve: Serve the dish immediately while warm. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side of fresh greens or a light salad.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken adds extra flavor but can be skipped if short on time.
- Brown rice is a healthier alternative to white rice but requires a longer cooking time.
- Use chicken broth for richer flavor; water works well for a lighter option.
- Letting chicken rest after cooking helps retain juices and keeps it tender.
- Fresh herbs like parsley add a pop of color and freshness but are optional.
