Delicious Greek Chicken Lemon Rice

This hearty Greek chicken and lemon rice dish brings the bright flavors of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table. The combination of tangy lemon, aromatic herbs, and tender chicken creates a meal that feels both comforting and refreshing.

I first made this recipe during a particularly hectic work week when I needed something simple yet impressive. The bright lemon aroma that filled my kitchen transported me straight to a Greek taverna, and it has since become my go-to dish whenever I entertain friends who appreciate Mediterranean cuisine.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provide a lean protein foundation that absorbs the marinade beautifully. Look for plump pieces of even thickness for best results.
• Fresh lemons: Essential for both juice and zest. Choose heavy, bright yellow fruits with thin skins for maximum juice yield.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Adds authentic Mediterranean flavor. Splurge on a good quality bottle as it makes a noticeable difference.
• Dried oregano: Brings classic Greek flavor. Store in a cool dark place and replace every 6 months for optimal potency.
• Long grain rice: Like Jasmine or Basmati offers perfect texture. Rinsing removes excess starch for fluffier results.
• Fresh herbs: For garnish brighten the final dish. Look for vibrant green bunches without wilting or yellowing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the marinade:

Combine olive oil, freshly minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl and whisk until well blended. This aromatic mixture forms the flavor foundation for the chicken, with each ingredient playing a crucial role in developing that distinctive Greek profile.

Marinate the chicken:

Place chicken breasts in a container or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring all surfaces are coated. Allow to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes but not longer than 2 hours as the acid in the lemon juice can start to break down the proteins too much.

Cook the chicken:

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium high heat until hot. Remove chicken from marinade allowing excess to drip off and place in the hot pan. Cook for approximately 6 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. The caramelization on the outside locks in moisture and creates deeper flavor.

Rest the chicken:

Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat rather than running out when cut, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Prepare the rice base:

Heat olive oil in a medium pot and add finely chopped onions. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until they become translucent and slightly soft, stirring occasionally to prevent browning. This aromatic foundation adds depth to the rice.

Toast the rice:

Add rinsed rice to the pot with onions and stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes. This brief toasting step helps the grains maintain their individual texture and enhances their nutty flavor profile.

Cook the rice:

Pour chicken broth and lemon zest into the pot, stir once, and bring to a full boil. Immediately reduce heat to low, cover with a tight fitting lid, and simmer undisturbed for 15 to 20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.

Finish and serve:

Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Plate a generous portion of lemon rice, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with fresh herbs, lemon slices, and roasted cherry tomatoes if desired for a complete presentation that balances flavors and textures.

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The marriage of lemon and oregano in this recipe creates that quintessential Greek flavor that I find irresistible. My grandmother, who lived in Athens for several years, taught me that authentic Greek cooking isn't about complexity but rather about letting quality ingredients shine. Whenever I make this dish, I'm reminded of her kitchen wisdom and how simple food can create the most powerful connections.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Greek chicken and rice stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight, making this an excellent meal prep option. For best results when reheating, add a small splash of water or broth to the rice to restore moisture, and warm gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over medium-low heat. The chicken can be reheated separately to prevent overcooking.

Variation Ideas

Transform this recipe with simple swaps that maintain the Greek character while creating something new. Try using boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for richer flavor and more forgiving cooking. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with thick slices of halloumi cheese that you can grill until golden. The rice portion works beautifully with farro or orzo pasta instead of traditional rice, offering different textures while still soaking up those wonderful lemony flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Complete your Greek feast by serving this chicken and lemon rice alongside traditional accompaniments. A simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, kalamata olives and feta cheese provides refreshing contrast. Warm pita bread brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with oregano makes an excellent side for scooping up every last grain of flavorful rice. For an authentic experience, offer tzatziki on the side as a cooling counterpoint to the bright lemon flavors in the main dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 hour for maximum flavor.

→ Can I use bone-in chicken instead?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as bone-in chicken may take longer to cook through.

→ What type of rice works best?

Long-grain rice like Jasmine or Basmati is ideal for this dish due to its light and fluffy texture.

→ What can I use as garnishes?

Fresh thyme, parsley, lemon slices, and roasted cherry tomatoes make excellent garnishes.

→ Can I prepare the rice in advance?

Yes, you can cook the rice ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving for convenience.