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Greek Chicken, Lemon Rice, Mediterranean, Grilled Chicken, Chicken Dinner, Greek Recipe

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice Recipe


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  • Author: Lina Judi
  • Total Time: 40 minutes (plus marinating)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

 

This Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice recipe offers a perfect balance of tender, marinated chicken with a zesty, fragrant lemon rice. Infused with Mediterranean flavors like oregano and garlic, this dish is light, refreshing, and full of deliciousness, making it ideal for a quick dinner or special occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 6 oz each)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Lemon Rice:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati rice for extra fragrance)
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional:

  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for serving)

Instructions

For the Chicken:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken.
  3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-3 hours, to allow the flavors to infuse.
  4. Preheat the grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Grill or cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is fully cooked.
  5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

For the Lemon Rice:

  1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the rice and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to toast it slightly.
  2. Add the chicken broth (or water), lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
  5. Stir in the fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with more lemon juice or salt if desired.

To Serve:

  1. Serve the sliced Greek chicken over a bed of lemon rice. Garnish with extra parsley and optional crumbled feta cheese.

Notes

  • For added flavor, marinate the chicken overnight for a deeper infusion of the marinade.
  • You can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version.
  • If you prefer a more savory rice, add a touch of garlic or sautéed onions to the rice while it cooks.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean