Name: Mediterranean Lemon Herb Chicken with Chickpea Pilaf
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total); 1 cup uncooked brown rice; 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 1 large lemon, zested and juiced; 2 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and black pepper to taste

Mediterranean Lemon Herb Chicken with Chickpea Pilaf

HeartyOrange4142

This Mediterranean Lemon Herb Chicken with Chickpea Pilaf delivers a vibrant and satisfying dinner that’s packed with protein, healthy carbs, and classic Mediterranean flavors. The chicken is marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, herbs, and garlic, then roasted until juicy and tender. A hearty pilaf of brown rice, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, feta, and fresh parsley provides a delicious and nutrient-rich base. This recipe layers complementary flavors and textures for a meal that’s both exciting and nourishing—perfect for anyone looking to gain weight with wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. Quick to prepare and full of sunshine, it’s a dinner you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of salted water to a boil. Add brown rice, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water.
While rice cooks, in a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Place chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour half the lemon-herb mixture over the chicken, coating both sides. Reserve the other half for later.
Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice.
In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, feta, parsley, and remaining lemon-herb dressing. Toss until well mixed and flavorful.
Serve sliced chicken breasts over a generous scoop of chickpea pilaf. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.