Crispy Feta with Lemon Pepper Chicken and Rice
Crispy pan-seared feta paired with zesty lemon pepper chicken and fluffy rice makes a flavorful and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Fry
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups water or broth
- 200 g block feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the rice by bringing water or broth to a boil, adding rice, reducing heat, and simmering until tender (about 15–18 minutes).
- Season the chicken breasts with lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add remaining olive oil and place the block of feta. Cook until golden and crispy on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Slice the chicken and serve over rice with the crispy feta on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
- Add vegetables like spinach or roasted tomatoes for extra nutrition.
- Use pre-crumbled feta if a block is unavailable, though crisping works best with a block.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
