Name: Easy Greek Lemon Chicken with Flavorful Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each); 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon); 1 tsp lemon zest; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional); 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati rice for more fragrance); 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Jump to Recipe

This Easy Greek Lemon Chicken with Flavorful Rice is a vibrant and satisfying meal that brings Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table in no time. The tender, juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a tangy, zesty lemon mixture with garlic and oregano, infusing them with bright flavors. Paired with fragrant, lemon-infused rice cooked in savory chicken broth, this dish makes for a perfectly balanced meal. It’s light, fresh, and full of delicious Mediterranean flair, with the citrusy notes of lemon and the earthiness of oregano shining through in every bite. Whether you’re making this for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Simple ingredients come together to create a meal that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor. And with just a few basic steps, you can have this delicious Greek-inspired meal on the table in less than 40 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful and Bright

The combination of fresh lemon juice, zest, and oregano brings a fresh, zesty, and herbaceous flavor to the chicken and rice.

2. Quick and Easy

With only 30-40 minutes of cook time, this recipe is quick enough for a weeknight meal but delicious enough to serve for a weekend dinner.

3. Versatile

This meal pairs well with a variety of sides such as grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even roasted potatoes. You can also easily adapt the recipe by swapping the rice for quinoa or couscous.

4. Healthy and Balanced

Packed with lean chicken and paired with aromatic rice cooked in low-sodium chicken broth, this dish is both light and nourishing without sacrificing flavor.

5. Make-Ahead Friendly

The chicken can be marinated ahead of time, and the rice can be made in advance as well, making it a great meal prep option for busy weeks.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Olive oil
Fresh lemon juice
Lemon zest
Garlic, minced
Dried oregano
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Rice:

Long-grain white rice (or basmati rice)
Chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
Olive oil
Small onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Dried oregano
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh lemon juice
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a slightly juicier and more flavorful option.
Quinoa or Couscous: For a different base, replace the rice with quinoa or couscous, both of which will complement the lemony chicken well.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade or rice for an extra layer of heat.
Add Vegetables: Stir in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach into the rice to make the dish more colorful and nutrient-packed.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (up to 2 hours) to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

While the chicken is marinating, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Stir in the rice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

While the rice is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to the skillet and cook the marinated chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). If necessary, you can cover the skillet to help the chicken cook evenly.

Step 5: Add Lemon and Parsley to the Rice

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat. Stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley for added brightness and flavor.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the cooked chicken breasts over the lemon-flavored rice. Garnish with extra fresh parsley for a colorful finish.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Marinate the Chicken: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes, but you can also marinate it overnight for a more intense lemon and oregano flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken juicy, be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken.
Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing, which allows the juices to redistribute.
Use Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the dish with its fresh flavor, making it an essential garnish.
Use Broth for Extra Flavor: Cooking the rice in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water infuses it with additional savory depth.

How to Serve

This Easy Greek Lemon Chicken with Flavorful Rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with the following sides to make it even more satisfying:

A simple Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean touch.
Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers, which complement the flavors of the chicken and rice.
A side of pita bread or flatbreads to soak up any extra lemony sauce from the chicken.
Tzatziki sauce or hummus for dipping or drizzling over the chicken for added creaminess.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the chicken and rice separate to maintain their textures.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the rice in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to restore its moisture. Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the cooking time according to the package directions for brown rice.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work just as well and can add more flavor due to their higher fat content.

3. Can I make this dish without lemon?

While lemon is a key component, you can try using white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar acidic flavor, though it will change the taste slightly.

4. Can I add vegetables to the rice?

Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach to the rice for added nutrition and color.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer.

6. Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

Yes, quinoa would make a great substitute for rice, and it will pair wonderfully with the lemony chicken.

7. Can I make the chicken ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours or overnight. Cook the chicken fresh when you’re ready to serve.

8. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free broth and verify that your seasonings do not contain gluten, this dish can easily be made gluten-free.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled to serve more people. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

10. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add a bit of heat, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or use a pinch of cayenne pepper in the chicken marinade or rice.

Conclusion

Easy Greek Lemon Chicken with Flavorful Rice is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that’s packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. With its tender, lemony chicken paired with aromatic rice, this dish is the perfect balance of fresh and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend meal, this recipe is simple to prepare and sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the bright, fresh flavors that make this dish a standout, and impress your family or guests with this easy yet elegant meal.