Elevate a family-favorite side dish to a flavorful, protein-packed meal



Turn an easy, everyday side dish into a full-blown dinner

Elevate a family-favorite side


Taking the stress out of family meals at home can be as simple as turning your attention toward recipes that pack plenty of flavor without complicated prep. In fact, you can even turn an easy, everyday side dish into a full-blown dinner by simply adding your favorite protein.

This Greek Chicken Fried Rice, for example, transforms a traditional side dish into a filling meal for four in less than 30 minutes. Plus, it requires just one wok or skillet, leaving hardly any cleanup on those busy weeknights when homework, after-school activities and social calendars fill your schedule.

READ MORE: Family meals that make busy weeknights a breeze

Find more weeknight meal solutions at MilkMeansMore.org.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!


Greek Chicken Fried Rice

Recipe courtesy of Lori Yates of “Foxes Love Lemons” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 13 minutes
Servings: 4

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large chicken breast, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 3 cups prepared white rice
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh parsley leaves
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cow’s milk feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grape tomatoes, quartered
  • 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, halved
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  1. In wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook until almost cooked through, stirring frequently, about 5 minutes.

  2. Add onion; cook 1 minute, stirring frequently.

  3. Add rice; cook 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Push rice to sides of wok, creating well in center of wok. Crack eggs into well and scramble vigorously with wooden spoon; cook 2 minutes, keeping eggs in well, or until eggs are fully cooked.

  4. Add chickpeas, parsley, cheese, tomatoes, olives, lemon juice, salt and pepper; cook 2 minutes, or until warmed through, stirring frequently.

(Family Features) 


Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • Tips to avoid roommate, rental & moving scams

    Dealing with new situations can make students vulnerable to potential scams

    Roommate/rental scams occur when scammers trick consumers into giving money in exchange for showing or renting a home that is not available read more »
  • Give your brain a boost

    5 ways to promote brain health

    When it comes to staying healthy, there is a natural emphasis on physical fitness. However, it’s important to know that nurturing and maintaining brain health is also important for leading a fulfilling life. read more »
  • 7 ways to reduce energy bills during summer heat

    Don't let your budget get smoked during a heat wave

    With temperatures forecasted to run at least 2 degrees higher than historical averages across more than half the country, according to projections from AccuWeather, heat waves may lead to soaring air-conditioning bills this summer. read more »
  • Rethink how you fire up the grill

    Cook up some hearty fruit for a change of pace

    Grilling is popular during the warm months simply for the vast amount of different foods that can be created and devoured, plus you’re outside enjoying the sunshine. read more »
  • How women can optimize health to combat cardiovascular disease

    What you need to know

    The threat of heart disease and stroke is growing substantially among women and girls as rates climb for health factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, with 6 in 10 U.S. women projected to have at least one type of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by 2050. read more »
  • Heart risks go beyond the heart

    Don't forget to check blood sugar and kidney health

    Diabetes and kidney disease are major risk factors for heart disease, yet many cases are undiagnosed. In fact, most people don’t realize their heart, kidney and metabolic health – how the body creates, uses and stores energy – are connected. read more »
  • 9 steps for a lifetime of heart-healthy eating

    Simple ways to improve your family's diet

    More than half of adults and about 60% of children in the United States have unhealthy diets, which can contribute to higher rates of health factors such as high blood pressure and obesity. read more »
  • 6 savvy ways to ensure grilling success this summer

    Tips to make your burgers the best ever

    While the spotlight may land on the burgers and barbecued fare, seasoned grill masters know the supporting cast matters, too. read more »
  • Hotter summers and rising energy costs

    How Next-Generation Inverter Heat Pumps Can Provide Comfort and Savings

    As heating and cooling systems are pushed to run for extended periods, energy use, especially for cooling, is increasing in demand and costing homeowners more. read more »
  • 5 tips for gardening with kids

    How to get started

    Whether you have a backyard garden, a few containers on the patio or are looking for a starting point, getting your children involved in planting and caring for plants can spark curiosity and create lasting memories. read more »