Zaatar Rice with Crispy Chicken Tenders

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €10.81 · €2.70/serving

• 1 lb. ground chicken or turkeyEst. price €4.50–€7.00
• tsp. smoked paprikaEst. price €0.08–€0.15
• 1 tsp. Diamond Crystal or tsp. Morton kosher salt, plus moreEst. price €0.03–€0.06
• Freshly ground black pepperEst. price €0.05–€0.10
• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oilEst. price €0.45–€0.90
• 1 cup Castelvetrano olives, smashed, pits removedEst. price €2.50–€4.00
• 3 cups cooked riceEst. price €0.60–€1.20
• 1 Tbsp. zaatar, plus more for servingEst. price €0.25–€0.50
• 2 cups coarsely chopped greens (such as spinach, kale, or chard)Est. price €1.20–€2.50
• Zest and juice of 1 small lemonEst. price €0.30–€0.60

Steps

1. 1

   In a medium bowl, add the chicken. Sprinkle paprika, 1 tsp of Diamond Crystal salt or ½ tsp of Morton kosher salt, and some pepper over the chicken. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until well combined.

2. 2

   Begin by heating oil in a spacious nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the skillet, ensuring it forms a thin, uniform layer. Let it cook without disturbance until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy, which should take approximately 5 minutes. Proceed to stir and break up the chicken into bite-sized pieces using a wooden spoon until fully cooked, for about 1 minute. Then, use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken onto a plate while leaving behind any excess oil and fat in the skillet.

3. 3

   In the same pan, add olives and cook without stirring until they are heated through and start to blister, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Next, add the rice along with 1 tablespoon of za’atar. Stir frequently and cook until the rice becomes slightly crispy, approximately 3 minutes. Then, introduce the greens and lemon juice into the pan. Cook while stirring occasionally until the greens have wilted, for about 2 minutes. Take the pan off the heat source before adding lemon zest, feta cheese, and chicken. Finally, taste the dish and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

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• Cultural note

  Zaatar, a key ingredient in this dish, is a popular Middle Eastern spice blend made with herbs like thyme, oregano, and sumac. This dish combines flavors and influences from Middle Eastern cuisine with a modern twist of crispy chicken tenders and feta cheese.

• Seasonal note

  Zaatar Rice with Crispy Chicken Tenders can be enjoyed year-round, but the dish is particularly comforting during the colder months when warm, hearty meals are preferred.

• Health note

  This dish is a good source of protein, healthy fats from olive oil and olives, and fiber from the greens. The combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats can help keep you full and satisfied.