Delicious Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that combines vibrant Mediterranean flavors with simplicity, this Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice recipe is for you! The zesty lemon, tender chicken, and aromatic rice make for a satisfying meal that’s both refreshing and comforting. The marinade is easy to prepare, and the chicken is versatile enough for grilling, baking, or pan-searing. The dish comes together beautifully and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a special gathering.

Ingredients

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced

• 2 large lemons, juiced and zested

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 teaspoons dried oregano

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 cup long-grain rice (Jasmine or Basmati)

• Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

1. Create Your Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag with the marinade. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (1 hour for more flavor).

3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and cook until golden brown on both sides—about 6-7 minutes per side.

4. Prepare the Rice: In another pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions for about 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add rinsed rice.

5. Simmer the Rice: Pour in chicken broth and lemon zest, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is fluffy.

6. Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and plate it alongside the grilled chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices for a bright finish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a Mediterranean veggie meal.

• Herb Substitutes: If you don’t have oregano, thyme or rosemary can also work beautifully in this recipe.

• Rice Variations: You can use any long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine, but for added texture, quinoa or couscous could also be good alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently microwave or warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to the rice to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can, but bone-in chicken will take longer to cook. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the chicken pieces.

What is the best way to grill the chicken?

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked.

Can I prepare the rice in advance?

Yes, you can cook the rice ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently with a little water before serving.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, while long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati is ideal, you can substitute with other varieties like short-grain or brown rice. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Greek chicken and lemon rice make an excellent meal prep option. Just store in individual portions for a quick and tasty lunch or dinner.

Can I add vegetables to the rice?

Yes! Adding veggies like spinach, peas, or bell peppers to the rice is a great way to enhance the dish and add more nutrients.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe, and their juiciness adds extra flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take longer.

How can I make the marinade more flavorful?

Feel free to add a splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple tzatziki dip would all be great sides to complement this dish.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that offers refreshing flavors and satisfying textures. With its vibrant lemony notes, tender chicken, and perfectly seasoned rice, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it's a meal that brings people together and satisfies every palate.

Print

Delicious Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings together tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and oregano, paired with a fluffy lemon-infused rice. It's a Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for any occasion—whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Enjoy the perfect balance of fresh, vibrant flavors that everyone will love.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling or Pan-searing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean, Greek
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

4 cloves fresh garlic, minced

2 large lemons, juiced and zested

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

2 teaspoons dried oregano

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup long-grain rice (Jasmine or Basmati)

Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

• Create Your Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.

• Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag with the marinade. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 1 hour for more flavor).

• Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and cook until golden brown on both sides—about 6-7 minutes per side.

• Prepare the Rice: In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions for about 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add rinsed rice.

• Simmer the Rice: Pour in chicken broth and lemon zest, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy.

• Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and plate it alongside the grilled chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices for a bright finish.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist.

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a Mediterranean veggie meal.