Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry with Feta

This delightful recipe combines succulent chicken pieces and a medley of vibrant vegetables, sautéed to perfection and topped with tangy feta cheese. The dish is a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, offering the rich and creamy notes of feta that melt over sautéed veggies and tender chicken. It’s a versatile meal perfect for any occasion, providing a healthy and fulfilling option that can be whipped up in under an hour. The preparation involves simple steps and ingredients, making it accessible even for beginner cooks. The use of fresh or dried thyme adds an aromatic touch that elevates the overall taste. Both paprika and black pepper give the dish a gentle kick, while the zucchini and bell peppers introduce a fresh crunch. Finished with golden, tender potatoes, this dish is both comforting and nutritious, showcasing the finest ingredients in a harmonious blend. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or enjoying a solo culinary adventure, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, for an impressive main course.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 400 g potatoes, washed and boiled with skin
  • 200 g feta cheese (fetaki), crumbled
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 2 chicken fillets, cut into 2 cm pieces
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced

Spices and Sauces:

  • 1 tsp paprika powder
  • Fresh or dried thyme
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Vegetable oil

Preparation Time

  • Total time: 45 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

  1. Start by boiling the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain, dry them, peel, and cut into chunks.
  2. Dice the zucchini and red bell pepper into small pieces.
  3. Cut the chicken fillets into 2 cm pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika powder.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add thyme for aroma.
  5. Sauté the chicken pieces in the pan, turning until cooked and browned on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  6. In the same pan, add more oil if needed, and toss in the potatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper.
  7. Stir fry the vegetables, adding a pinch of salt (keep it light since feta is salty), pepper, and thyme.
  8. Once the vegetables start to soften, reintroduce the chicken pieces to the pan.
  9. Cook all ingredients together for a few more minutes for the flavors to meld.
  10. Just before serving, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top.
  11. Allow the cheese to slightly melt, infusing richness into the dish.
  12. Serve the dish hot, accompanied by fresh herbs if desired for added flavor.

Tips

  • Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version.
  • Use low-sodium feta to control salt intake.
  • Make it spicy by adding a chili pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

Nutritions

  • Calories: 450 per serving
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fats: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

  • Swap zucchini for eggplant for a different vegetable twist.
  • Replace potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter, fiber-rich alternative.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a green salad for a fresh contrast.
  • Serve alongside rustic bread to soak up the flavors.

Best Places

  1. Nomad Restaurant - A chic spot known for creative Mediterranean dishes with feta. Location: 1170 Broadway & 28th Street, New York, USA.
  2. The Ledbury - Famous for its exquisite interpretations of classic European flavors. Location: 127 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill, London, UK.
  3. Astra - Features the authentic Greek dining experience. Location: Matti Petersens Vej 2, Aarhus, Denmark.
  4. Estia - Known for its fresh and organic approach to Mediterranean cuisine. Location: 1405 Locust Street, Philadelphia, USA.
  5. Babel - Offers a fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. Location: Erzsébet Square 7-8, Budapest, Hungary.
  6. Barrafina - Celebrated for its Spanish tapas, including Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Location: 26-27 Dean Street, London, UK.
  7. Ouzeri - Traditional Greek flavors with contemporary twists. Location: 822 Lamar Street, San Antonio, USA.
  8. Elia - Known for using local ingredients to create Mediterranean favorites. Location: Carrer de Pau Claris, 92, Barcelona, Spain.
  9. Amphora - Greek cuisine brought to life with daily fresh produce. Location: Neofitou Metaxa 32, Athens, Greece.
  10. Balcon du Ciel - Offers a panoramic view and exquisite Mediterranean dishes. Location: 1 Station de Ski, Avoriaz, France.