Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a flavorful, one-pan meal packed with Mediterranean spices, juicy chicken, and zesty lemon-infused rice. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying yet refreshing meal. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves Greek cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal – Easy cleanup and minimal effort.
• Bright and fresh flavors – The perfect balance of citrus, garlic, and herbs.
• Protein-packed – Juicy, marinated chicken adds a satisfying bite.
• Great for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day.
• Customizable – Easily adapted with different proteins or grains.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken thighs or breasts
• Long-grain white rice
• Chicken broth
• Lemon juice and zest
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Greek yogurt
• Oregano
• Paprika
• Cumin
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley
• Feta cheese (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken – In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
2. Sear the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Rice – In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté garlic, then stir in the rice and toast it for a minute. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
4. Simmer & Bake – Nestle the seared chicken back into the pan with the rice. Cover and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Garnish & Serve – Remove from the oven, fluff the rice, and sprinkle with fresh parsley and feta cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Use different proteins – Swap chicken for shrimp, salmon, or tofu.
• Add vegetables – Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
• Make it dairy-free – Skip the yogurt in the marinade and use extra olive oil.
• Try a different grain – Use quinoa or orzo instead of rice for variety.
• Spice it up – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or microwave in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and add extra liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

What’s the best chicken to use for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for juiciness, but chicken breasts can also be used.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of the oven?

Yes! Keep the pan covered and let it simmer on low heat until the rice is fully cooked.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Use chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.

What can I serve with Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice?

Pair it with tzatziki sauce, a Greek salad, or warm pita bread for a complete meal.

Why is my rice mushy?

Too much liquid or over-stirring can make rice mushy. Stick to the recommended measurements and avoid excessive stirring.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, but reduce the broth and simmer for less time since the rice is already cooked.

What other herbs can I use?

Dill, thyme, or basil can enhance the Mediterranean flavors even more.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and seasonings.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings Mediterranean flavors to your table. With juicy chicken, fragrant rice, and a zesty lemon kick, this one-pan meal is sure to become a household favorite. Try it with different variations and enjoy a taste of Greece in every bite!

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