Greek Chicken
Greek Chicken Recipe - Authentic and Bursting with Flavor
Introduction
Greek Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with tangy feta cheese, zesty lemon juice, and aromatic oregano. This dish is a perfect option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that is sure to impress your family and friends.
History
Greek Chicken has its origins in traditional Greek cuisine, which is known for its use of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The combination of feta cheese, lemon juice, and oregano is a classic Greek flavor profile that has been enjoyed for generations.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (454 g) boneless chicken
- 0.5 cup crumbled feta cheese (3 g of carbs)
- 0.5 tsp dried oregano (0.5 g of carbs)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (1.3 g of carbs)
- 1 tbsp oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 cup diced tomato (5.8 g of carbs)
- 1 cup fresh spinach (2.4 g of carbs)
How to prepare
- Flatten the chicken. Combine feta cheese, lemon juice, and oregano. Spread the mixture over the chicken. Fold the chicken to enclose the filling and secure it with a toothpick. Heat oil in a skillet until hot. Add the chicken and cook until it turns golden brown. Mix chicken broth, tomato, and spinach together. Add the mixture to the skillet and heat it until it starts boiling. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes. Serve.
Variations
- Add olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Use different herbs like basil or parsley for a twist on the traditional recipe.
- Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to flatten the chicken evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Use a toothpick to secure the filling inside the chicken.
- Cook the chicken until it is golden brown on both sides for maximum flavor.
- Be sure to cover the skillet while simmering to lock in the flavors and keep the chicken moist.
Serving Suggestions
Greek Chicken can be served with a side of rice, quinoa, or a Greek salad. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing cucumber mint cocktail.
Cooking Techniques
Flattening the chicken ensures even cooking and allows for the filling to be evenly distributed.
- Simmering the chicken in broth helps to keep it moist and infuse it with flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use goat cheese or ricotta instead of feta cheese.
- Substitute chicken with pork or beef for a different protein option.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the filling and stuff the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook.
- The chicken can also be cooked in advance and reheated before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the Greek Chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. - Serve the dish on a bed of couscous or orzo for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve Greek Chicken with a side of tzatziki sauce or hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- Pair with a Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the chicken in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
- Calories per serving: varies
Carbohydrates
- Feta cheese: 3 g
- Lemon juice: 1.3 g
- Diced tomato: 5.8 g
- Fresh spinach: 2.4 g
Fats
- Feta cheese: 0.5 g
Proteins
- Chicken: varies
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin C from lemon juice
- Iron and calcium from spinach
- Calcium from feta cheese
Alergens
Dairy (feta cheese)
Summary
Greek Chicken is a balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and can be a nutritious addition to a well-rounded diet.
Summary
Greek Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. With a combination of tender chicken, tangy feta cheese, zesty lemon juice, and aromatic oregano, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delicious meal with a side of rice, quinoa, or a Greek salad for a complete and balanced meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Greek Chicken. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, visiting my grandmother in her cozy kitchen. She was a master in the art of cooking, and I would always watch in awe as she effortlessly whipped up delicious meals for our family.
One day, as I sat at the kitchen table flipping through an old cookbook, my grandmother came up behind me and pointed to a page that caught her eye. "Ah, Greek Chicken," she said with a smile. "This is one of my favorite recipes to make. Would you like me to show you how to make it?"
I eagerly nodded, and soon enough, we were in the kitchen, gathering ingredients and preparing to make the dish. My grandmother explained that the key to making a delicious Greek Chicken is in the marinade. She showed me how to combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and a touch of red wine vinegar to create a flavorful mixture that would infuse the chicken with incredible taste.
As we placed the chicken in the marinade to soak up all the flavors, my grandmother shared with me the story of how she had come across this recipe. She told me that when she was a young woman, she had traveled to Greece with her husband, who was in the military. During their time there, they had the opportunity to dine with a local family who graciously shared their recipe for Greek Chicken.
My grandmother was so impressed with the dish that she had asked for the recipe, which she had cherished ever since. She had made it countless times for her own family, and now she was passing it down to me.
As the chicken marinated, my grandmother and I worked together to prepare the side dishes that would accompany the meal. We chopped up fresh vegetables for a Greek salad, boiled some rice, and toasted some pita bread. The kitchen was filled with the aromas of garlic, lemon, and herbs, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.
Finally, after the chicken had marinated for a few hours, my grandmother showed me how to grill it to perfection. She explained that the key was to cook it slowly over a low flame, turning it occasionally to ensure that it cooked evenly and stayed juicy and tender.
As the chicken sizzled on the grill, my grandmother and I set the table and prepared to sit down to a delicious meal. When the chicken was finally ready, we plated it up alongside the salad, rice, and pita bread, and sat down to eat.
The first bite of the Greek Chicken was like a burst of flavor in my mouth. The tangy lemon, the earthy oregano, the hint of garlic – it was all so delicious. I could see why my grandmother loved this recipe so much, and I felt proud to have helped her make it.
As we ate, my grandmother and I shared stories and laughs, enjoying each other's company and the wonderful meal we had created together. I felt so grateful to have her in my life, teaching me not just how to cook, but also how to appreciate the simple joys of sharing a meal with loved ones.
And as I finished the last bite of the Greek Chicken, I knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart – a reminder of the love and connection that cooking can bring to our lives.
Categories
| Cheese Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Chicken Stock And Broth Recipes | Feta Recipes | Greek Recipes | Low-carb Recipes | Oregano Recipes |