Delicious Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of Greek chicken and lemon rice wafting through the air. Imagine tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, sizzling away in your kitchen. The moment you take that first bite of perfectly cooked rice, slightly tart yet bursting with flavor, it feels like sunshine on your taste buds.

This dish brings back fond memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air alongside the delightful scents from the kitchen. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends; this recipe promises a delicious experience that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

You’ll adore how effortlessly you can make this dish come alive in your kitchen!

– The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavors while keeping it juicy.

– Bright lemony rice adds a fresh twist that complements the savory chicken perfectly.

– A one-pan meal means less cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy!

– Customizable ingredients allow you to use what you have available without compromising taste.

I remember serving this dish during a family BBQ; everyone went home with full bellies and smiles.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 breasts depending on guest count; adjust as needed.
• Fresh Lemons: Choose juicy lemons to ensure maximum zesty flavor in both the marinade and rice.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic packs a punch of flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic hero!
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor when marinating the chicken.
• Long-Grain White Rice: Opt for basmati or jasmine rice for fluffier texture and enhanced taste.
• Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water elevates the flavor profile of the rice significantly.
• Dried Oregano: A staple in Greek cuisine; it adds an earthy note that complements all ingredients beautifully.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every component of this dish.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, juice from two lemons, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth to create a fragrant marinade.

Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or bowl. Pour marinade over them and coat well. Let sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) to absorb those delicious flavors.

Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes each), ensuring they are cooked through.

Add Rice & Broth: Stir in long-grain white rice into the skillet along with 2 cups of chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom to infuse flavor into the rice.

Cook Until Fluffy: Bring mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover tightly and simmer for about 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.

Fluff & Serve!: Once cooked, remove from heat. Let it rest covered for another 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Squeeze an extra lemon over top before serving if desired!

Now you’re ready to indulge in this flavorful dish that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite of your homemade greek chicken and lemon rice experience!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least one hour, then sear it in a hot pan before baking at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the chicken cooks, prepare the lemon rice to ensure everything is ready simultaneously.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp if you’re looking for a vegetarian or seafood option. You can also add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed.

I remember hosting a dinner party where this dish wowed my friends. They couldn’t get over how flavorful the chicken was, and I secretly basked in their compliments while keeping my cooking secrets safe!

FAQ

How long should I marinate Greek chicken?

Marinating Greek chicken for at least one hour enhances its flavor significantly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and cook it later within two days.

What side dishes pair well with Greek chicken and lemon rice?

Consider serving Greek salad or roasted vegetables alongside your meal for balance.

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Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

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• Author: platesdaily
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe features juicy chicken marinated in zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, served with fluffy lemon-infused rice for a delightful meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 fresh lemons
• 4 garlic cloves
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, juice from two lemons, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
2. Marinate the chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the marinated chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Add rice and chicken broth to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for about 15 minutes until rice is tender.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork, let rest covered for another 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing/Simmering
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for alternative proteins. Add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat as needed.