Do Share Recipe

I have to tell you, making this Crispy Feta with Lemon Pepper Chicken And Rice Recipe was an absolute game-changer for my weeknight dinners. The moment I pan-fried the feta, I knew I was onto something special. Each bite bursts with flavor—the tender, zesty chicken, sweet roasted peppers, and that perfectly crispy feta on top.

I love how this recipe feels both fresh and comforting at the same time. Honestly, it’s become one of my go-to meals whenever I want something quick, impressive, and totally satisfying. You can also enjoy a creamy texture in your meals like in this creamy oyster mushroom pasta recipe.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful meal. I’ve added some tips for each ingredient to get the best results:

1 block of feta cheese (200g) – Use fresh feta for a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture; avoid pre-crumbled.
2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder – Helps the feta crisp perfectly in the pan.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Adds richness and ensures even frying.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Choose high-quality chicken for tender, juicy meat.
1 teaspoon paprika – Adds mild smokiness and warmth.
½ teaspoon cumin – Brings a subtle earthy depth to the chicken.
½ teaspoon ground ginger – Enhances flavor with a gentle zing.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Always season generously.
1 red bell pepper, sliced – Fresh, crunchy, and sweet.
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced – Adds vibrant color and sweetness.
1 orange bell pepper, sliced – For visual appeal and flavor balance.
1 shallot, thinly sliced – Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for aromatic depth.
1 cup uncooked rice – Jasmine or basmati works beautifully.
2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing) – Simple vinaigrette base.
1 tablespoon champagne vinegar – Brightens the flavors.
1 teaspoon honey – Balances acidity with a touch of sweetness.
½ teaspoon chili flakes – Optional, for heat.
Fresh herbs like cilantro and dill – Adds freshness and color. You can also pair this dish with some lightly roasted vegetables like in the smashed carrots recipe.

Note: several serving

Variations

You can easily tweak this recipe to suit different diets or flavor preferences:

Dairy-free: Replace feta with a firm vegan cheese or marinated tofu.
Spice it up: Add extra chili flakes or a pinch of smoked paprika for more heat.
Low-carb: Swap rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter version.
Extra crunch: Sprinkle toasted nuts like pine nuts or almonds on top before serving.

Cooking Time

This dish comes together fairly quickly:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large skillet – For pan-frying the feta and sautéing vegetables.
Baking sheet – To roast chicken and peppers.
Small bowl – To whisk the vinaigrette.
Knife and cutting board – For prepping vegetables and chicken.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure precise seasoning and rice portions.

How to Make Crispy Feta with Lemon Pepper Chicken and Rice Recipe?

Preparing the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with paprika, cumin, ginger, salt, and pepper. Roast them on a baking sheet until golden and cooked through. I like to use the same sheet for the peppers—it keeps all the flavors together.

Roasting the Vegetables

Add sliced bell peppers, shallots, and garlic to the pan with the chicken. Roast everything together until soft and fragrant. I love how the colors pop on the plate and how the roasted aroma fills the kitchen.

Cooking the Rice

While the chicken and veggies are roasting, cook the rice according to package instructions. Fluffy rice is essential here because it absorbs all the delicious juices from the chicken and peppers.

Pan-Frying the Feta

Pat the feta dry, coat it lightly with cornstarch, and pan-sear in olive oil until crispy and golden on each side. I find that a gentle sizzle and careful flipping make all the difference for a perfect crust.

Making the Vinaigrette

Whisk together olive oil, champagne vinegar, honey, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the finished dish for an extra layer of tangy, sweet flavor. I like to make this last so it stays fresh and vibrant.

Assembling the Dish

Spoon rice onto plates, layer roasted chicken and peppers on top, and break crispy feta over the vegetables. Drizzle the vinaigrette and sprinkle fresh herbs generously. I always finish with extra herbs—it makes the dish look restaurant-worthy.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience, small tweaks can elevate this meal:

I like to pat the chicken dry before seasoning for a crispier finish.
Toast your rice lightly in a bit of olive oil for added nuttiness.
Let the feta sit in cornstarch for a minute before frying; it crisps better.
Fresh herbs make a huge difference, don’t skip them.
Use a non-stick pan for the feta to avoid sticking.

How to Serve Crispy Feta with Lemon Pepper Chicken and Rice

Serve this dish straight from the pan for a rustic look or plate it neatly for dinner guests. Garnish with extra herbs and a wedge of lemon. I sometimes add a side of warm naan or pita bread to scoop up every bit—it’s pure comfort food.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of what you’re getting in one serving:

Calories: 520 kcal – Perfectly satisfying without being too heavy.
Protein: 35g – Thanks to the hearty chicken and feta.
Carbohydrates: 45g – Mostly from rice and peppers.
Fat: 20g – Mostly healthy fats from olive oil and feta.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like to separate rice from chicken to maintain texture.
Freezing: The chicken and peppers can be frozen, but I prefer not freezing the feta—it loses crispiness.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to keep the feta crispy and chicken juicy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this meal is a keeper:

Easy to prepare – Minimal steps and simple ingredients. I love that it’s not complicated.
Flavor-packed – Every bite has a balance of spicy, tangy, and savory notes.
Versatile – Perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or entertaining.
Customizable – Switch herbs, add veggies, or adjust spice levels easily.
Visually appealing – Bright peppers and golden feta make it Instagram-ready.

Ben Carraoli