Easy Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice Recipe

 

The aroma of perfectly seasoned chicken sizzling in the pan fills your kitchen with an inviting warmth that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. Paired with fluffy lemon rice that dances on your taste buds like a Mediterranean fiesta, this greek chicken and lemon rice dish is here to elevate your dinner game.

Picture this: a casual Sunday evening where the whole family gathers around the table, laughter bouncing off the walls as everyone digs into this vibrant meal. The flavors of zesty lemon and tender chicken create moments that linger long after the last bite. Trust me; this dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This amazing greek chicken and marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

When I first made this dish for my family, their reactions were priceless – my kids devoured every bite while my husband declared me “the queen of dinner.” It was one of those magical moments that reminds you why cooking is such an art.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
  • Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
  • Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth to the marinade.
  • Lemon Juice: Use freshly squeezed lemons for a bright burst of citrus flavor.
  • Dried Oregano: This herb gives your dish an authentic Mediterranean taste; don’t skimp!
  • Long-Grain Rice: This type holds up well and cooks beautifully alongside the flavorful broth.
  • Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water infuses the rice with savory goodness.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in your dish.
  • Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Adds color and freshness right before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Marinate the Chicken: Start by combining olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add your chicken breasts and let them soak up those flavors for at least 30 minutes.

Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add some olive oil. Once hot, place marinated chicken breasts in the skillet until they turn golden brown on both sides (about 6-7 minutes each side).

Add Rice & Broth: Once your chicken is nicely browned, remove it from the skillet. In that same skillet, add rinsed long-grain rice to toast slightly before pouring in chicken broth.

Simmer Away!: Nestle your seared chicken back into the rice mixture. Cover everything tightly and reduce heat to low; let it simmer until the rice is cooked through (approximately 15-20 minutes).

Final Touches!: After removing from heat, allow it to rest covered for another 5 minutes. Fluff up that delicious lemon-infused rice before serving alongside those succulent chicken breasts.

Garnish & Serve!: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over your masterpiece for that perfect finishing touch before diving into this delightful feast!

Now sit back and watch as everyone falls in love with this greek chicken and lemon rice creation – just be prepared for requests to make it again soon!

You Must Know

  • This amazing greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken while preparing your rice, then cook the chicken first to lock in flavors.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap brown rice for quinoa or add vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • This amazing greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.</p>
  • <p>Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Cooking this dish reminds me of that time I prepared a feast for my friends, and they couldn’t stop raving about the flavors!

FAQs

FAQ

What is Greek chicken and lemon rice?

Greek chicken and lemon rice is a flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken served over zesty lemon-infused rice.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your marinade for an extra kick!

Print
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Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice


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  • Author: platesdaily
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Greek chicken and lemon rice is a mouthwatering Mediterranean dish featuring tender marinated chicken served over zesty lemon-infused rice, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1.5 cups long-grain rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate chicken in olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Sear marinated chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown (6-7 minutes per side).
  3. Remove chicken and toast rinsed rice in the same skillet before adding chicken broth.
  4. Return chicken to skillet, cover tightly, and simmer on low until rice is tender (15-20 minutes).
  5. Let rest covered for 5 minutes, fluff rice, garnish with parsley, and serve.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Searing
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 51g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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