Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

If you love fresh, vibrant flavors and hearty, satisfying meals, then Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is the perfect dish for you. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is a wonderful fusion of tender, juicy chicken infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, served alongside a flavorful rice dish that’s packed with fresh ingredients. The combination of the marinated chicken and the lemon-infused rice creates a meal that is not only refreshing but also comforting and filling.

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is an incredibly versatile dish that works well for weeknight dinners, special gatherings, or meal prepping for the week ahead. The balance of bright lemon, savory chicken, and fragrant rice makes it an irresistible option for those looking to try something new, while still embracing the familiar comforts of home cooking.

In this article, we’ll explore why Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a must-try dish, guide you through the steps to make it, offer useful tips and tricks, and share ways to customize this meal to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re new to Mediterranean cuisine or already a fan, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Fresh and Zesty: The lemon and herbs infuse the chicken and rice with bright, refreshing flavors that are both tangy and savory.
  • Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this dish comes together quickly and effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Balanced and Satisfying: The combination of protein-rich chicken and flavorful rice makes this meal both filling and nutritious.
  • Versatile: Whether you prefer grilled, roasted, or pan-seared chicken, this recipe works with any cooking method. Additionally, you can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is ideal for preparing ahead of time and storing in the fridge for a delicious and healthy meal throughout the week.

Preparation Time and Servings

  • Total Time: 1 hour (15 minutes for prep, 45 minutes for cooking)
  • Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion size.
  • Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories: 500, Protein: 35g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 18g.

Ingredients

For the Greek Chicken Marinade:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): Chicken breasts are the most commonly used cut for this recipe, but you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and helps with marinating.
  • Juice of 2 lemons: For that zesty, tangy flavor that defines the dish.
  • 4 garlic cloves: Minced, to enhance the flavor and aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A staple herb in Greek cuisine that adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme: For an additional layer of herbal flavor.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken.
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: For an added depth of acidity that complements the lemon.

For the Lemon Rice:

  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (or basmati rice): The rice provides the perfect base for soaking up the lemony goodness and complementing the chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the rice and ensuring it’s perfectly cooked.
  • 3 cups chicken broth: Adds richness and flavor to the rice.
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon: For an extra punch of citrus flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: To tie in the Mediterranean flavor of the rice.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the rice.
  • Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish and added freshness.
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional): For extra richness and to make the rice extra fluffy.

Optional Garnishes:

  • Sliced lemon wedges: For serving, so everyone can add extra zest to their dish.
  • Fresh dill: Chopped, for an authentic Greek touch.
  • Crumbled feta cheese: For a creamy, tangy garnish that complements the flavors.

Step-by-Step Preparation

FIRST STEP: MARINATE THE CHICKEN

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and red wine vinegar. This creates a zesty marinade that will infuse the chicken with Mediterranean flavors.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 1-2 hours, to allow the flavors to soak in. For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.

SECOND STEP: COOK THE LEMON RICE

  1. Sauté the Rice: In a medium-sized pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and sauté it, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes. This will help the rice absorb the flavors of the oil and become slightly toasted.
  2. Add the Broth and Lemon: Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine. Add the dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Simmer the Rice: Once the liquid starts to boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Be careful not to stir too often, as this can cause the rice to become mushy.
  4. Fluff the Rice: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Afterward, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. If you like, stir in a tablespoon of butter for extra richness.
  5. Garnish the Rice: Stir in chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Set the rice aside, covered, while you cook the chicken.

THIRD STEP: COOK THE GREEK CHICKEN

  1. Prepare the Grill or Pan: You can either grill or pan-sear the chicken. To grill, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If you’re pan-searing, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If pan-searing, cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
  3. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps retain its juices and ensures the meat stays moist.

FOURTH STEP: ASSEMBLE AND SERVE

  1. Plate the Dish: Scoop a generous serving of lemon rice onto each plate. Slice the rested chicken into strips or serve it whole, depending on your preference. Arrange the chicken on top of the rice.
  2. Garnish: For an added burst of flavor, garnish the dish with fresh lemon wedges, chopped dill, and crumbled feta cheese if desired. These garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also elevate the dish with their fresh, tangy flavors.
  3. Serve: Serve the Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice immediately, accompanied by a simple green salad or some grilled vegetables for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

How to Serve Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a flavorful and versatile dish that can be served in many ways to complement its vibrant flavors. Here are some great serving ideas:

1. As a Standalone Meal

This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, with the tender chicken and lemon rice providing a balanced combination of protein and carbs. Pair it with a side of your favorite vegetables, like roasted Mediterranean vegetables or a simple green salad, to complete the meal.

2. With a Fresh Salad

A Greek-inspired salad, with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onions, and feta cheese, pairs perfectly with the chicken and rice. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the rice and the savory chicken, making for a light yet filling meal.

3. Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice As a Meal Prep Option

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is perfect for meal prep. The rice and chicken hold up well in the fridge, and the dish can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Simply store the cooked rice and chicken separately in airtight containers and reheat when ready to serve.

4. Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice Serve with Pita Bread

For a more substantial meal, serve the dish with warm pita bread or flatbread. The bread can be used to scoop up the rice and chicken, making it a fun, hands-on way to enjoy the meal.

Recipe Variations for Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

While Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is fantastic as written, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

1. Use Different Cuts of Chicken

If you prefer dark meat, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks. These cuts have more flavor and will still work well with the marinade. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Make it Vegetarian Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and substitute

it with marinated tofu or grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. You can use the same marinade for the tofu to infuse it with flavor.

3. Make it Spicy Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the rice or marinade for an extra kick. You could also drizzle some spicy harissa or hot sauce over the finished dish for a bold flavor twist.

4. Gluten-Free Option Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you make sure to use certified gluten-free ingredients, including the chicken broth and any condiments or spices you use.

Freezing and Storage

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a great make-ahead meal. Here’s how to store it:

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: If you want to freeze this dish, portion the chicken and rice into separate containers and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

  • Author: Miya
  • Total Time: 1 hour
Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

For the Greek Chicken Marinade:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): Chicken breasts are the most commonly used cut for this recipe, but you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and helps with marinating.
  • Juice of 2 lemons: For that zesty, tangy flavor that defines the dish.
  • 4 garlic cloves: Minced, to enhance the flavor and aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A staple herb in Greek cuisine that adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme: For an additional layer of herbal flavor.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken.
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: For an added depth of acidity that complements the lemon.

For the Lemon Rice:

  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (or basmati rice): The rice provides the perfect base for soaking up the lemony goodness and complementing the chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the rice and ensuring it’s perfectly cooked.
  • 3 cups chicken broth: Adds richness and flavor to the rice.
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon: For an extra punch of citrus flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: To tie in the Mediterranean flavor of the rice.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the rice.
  • Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish and added freshness.
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional): For extra richness and to make the rice extra fluffy.

Optional Garnishes:

  • Sliced lemon wedges: For serving, so everyone can add extra zest to their dish.
  • Fresh dill: Chopped, for an authentic Greek touch.
  • Crumbled feta cheese: For a creamy, tangy garnish that complements the flavors.

Instructions

FIRST STEP: MARINATE THE CHICKEN

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and red wine vinegar. This creates a zesty marinade that will infuse the chicken with Mediterranean flavors.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 1-2 hours, to allow the flavors to soak in. For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.

SECOND STEP: COOK THE LEMON RICE

  1. Sauté the Rice: In a medium-sized pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and sauté it, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes. This will help the rice absorb the flavors of the oil and become slightly toasted.
  2. Add the Broth and Lemon: Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine. Add the dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Simmer the Rice: Once the liquid starts to boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Be careful not to stir too often, as this can cause the rice to become mushy.
  4. Fluff the Rice: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Afterward, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. If you like, stir in a tablespoon of butter for extra richness.
  5. Garnish the Rice: Stir in chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Set the rice aside, covered, while you cook the chicken.

THIRD STEP: COOK THE GREEK CHICKEN

  1. Prepare the Grill or Pan: You can either grill or pan-sear the chicken. To grill, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If you’re pan-searing, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If pan-searing, cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
  3. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps retain its juices and ensures the meat stays moist.

FOURTH STEP: ASSEMBLE AND SERVE

  1. Plate the Dish: Scoop a generous serving of lemon rice onto each plate. Slice the rested chicken into strips or serve it whole, depending on your preference. Arrange the chicken on top of the rice.
  2. Garnish: For an added burst of flavor, garnish the dish with fresh lemon wedges, chopped dill, and crumbled feta cheese if desired. These garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also elevate the dish with their fresh, tangy flavors.
  3. Serve: Serve the Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice immediately, accompanied by a simple green salad or some grilled vegetables for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4-6
  • Calories: 500
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Protein: 35g

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Conclusion for Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a perfect meal for anyone craving fresh, vibrant, and delicious Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping for the week, or just craving something healthy and flavorful, this dish is sure to please. With its zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and tender chicken, it’s a meal that brings the bright, refreshing flavors of Greece straight to your table. Give it a try, and enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean in every bite.