Cava, renowned for its vibrant Mediterranean flavors, has become synonymous with fresh and wholesome cuisine. One standout dish from their menu is the delectable combination of tender chicken and hearty RightRice, a nutritious alternative to traditional rice. With this Cava-inspired recipe, you can recreate the magic of this flavorful dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Let’s dive into the steps to create this savory perfection:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 package (7 ounces/200g) RightRice (any flavor)
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups (480ml) fresh spinach leaves
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the RightRice: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the RightRice according to the package instructions. RightRice typically cooks in about 10-12 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for a nutritious meal.
- Combine Chicken and RightRice: Once the chicken is cooked, add the cooked RightRice to the skillet with the chicken. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Vegetables: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves to the skillet with the chicken and RightRice mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
- Finish with Lemon Juice: Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the chicken and RightRice mixture, stirring to incorporate the bright, citrusy flavor.
- Serve: Transfer the Cava-inspired chicken and RightRice to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese, if desired, for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
Enjoy the wholesome goodness and vibrant flavors of this Cava-inspired chicken and RightRice dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress with its Mediterranean-inspired flair. Bon appétit!