Go Back
mediterranean chicken and vegetables

Homemade Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetables

Delicious Homemade Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetables recipe with step-by-step instructions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 47 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 1175 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the chicken::

  • 1 lb chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch chunks to ensure even browning)
  • 3/4 tsp paprika
  • 3/4 tsp oregano
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 2.5 tbsp olive oil (I prefer Bertolli Extra Virgin for roasting)

For the vegetables::

  • 10 oz spinach
  • 5 garlic cloves (freshly minced for best flavor and aroma)
  • 8 oz cherry tomatoes (halved to release their juices for the sauce)
  • 6 oz feta cheese (I always use President Feta for its creamy texture)
  • 3 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch chunks for even cooking. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to create a dry seasoning blend. Toss the chicken chunks with this mixture until evenly coated, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat while you prepare the other ingredients. This seasoning step ahead of time ensures the spices adhere better to the chicken during searing.
  • Mince the garlic cloves finely to release their aromatic oils. Halve the cherry tomatoes to help them release their juices into the sauce. Crumble or cube the feta cheese. Have the spinach, lemon juice, and olive oil measured and ready near your cooking station. This complete mise en place prevents scrambling once cooking begins.
  • Heat 2.5 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and fragrant. Working in batches if needed to avoid crowding, add the seasoned chicken chunks and sear for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they develop a golden-brown crust and cook through. I like to let the chicken sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes between stirs so it develops that beautiful caramelized exterior. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
  • In the same skillet with the residual oil and browned bits, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the spinach and half of the halved tomatoes, stirring frequently for 5-10 minutes until the spinach wilts completely and the tomatoes begin to soften and break down. These halved tomatoes create a light sauce base as they release their juices. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Reduce the heat to medium and gently stir the feta cheese, remaining halved tomatoes, and lemon juice into the vegetable mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the feta softens slightly and creates a creamy sauce with the tomato juices and lemon brightness. The acidity of the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the feta and chicken beautifully.
  • Return the cooked chicken from Step 3 to the skillet and stir gently to combine with the vegetable and feta mixture. Heat for 1-2 minutes until the chicken warms through and everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Serve warm and enjoy the Mediterranean flavors.