Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Recipe

Craving a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s bursting with flavor and easy to whip up? Look no further than this Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice recipe! This dish combines tender, zesty chicken with fluffy rice infused with bright lemon and aromatic herbs, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is ready in under 40 minutes and uses simple pantry staples. It’s naturally gluten-free, can be adapted for dairy-free diets, and is packed with protein to keep you satisfied. My love for this dish stems from a trip to Greece, where I savored authentic flavors in a seaside taverna—this recipe brings that sunny Mediterranean vibe right to your kitchen!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice. The ingredients are listed in order of use, with substitutions for flexibility:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier texture)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil for a neutral flavor)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati for fluffier results)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)

How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice

This one-pot recipe is straightforward and perfect for beginners or seasoned cooks. Follow these steps for a foolproof, flavorful meal:

1. Season and sear the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. In a large Dutch oven or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken till golden brown, 3–4 minutes per side. Take off and place on a plate.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and sauté for two to three minutes, or until it is tender. Sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds till it becomes fragrant.
3. Toast the rice: Stir in the rice, thyme, cumin, and lemon zest. Stir the rice to coat it in the oil and spices and toast it for one to two minutes.
4. Add liquids and chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, ensuring it’s partially submerged.
5. Simmer to perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
6. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve warm and enjoy!

What Spices Go in Greek Chicken and Rice?

The hallmark of Greek cuisine is its bold yet balanced spice profile. For this Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice, the key spices include:

• Oregano: Adds an earthy, herbaceous note typical of Mediterranean dishes.
• Thyme: Complements oregano with a subtle, aromatic warmth.
• Cumin: Provides a hint of smokiness and depth.
• Paprika: Adds mild sweetness and a touch of color.
• Black Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor with a slight kick.

For an extra layer of authenticity, you can sprinkle in a pinch of dried dill or rosemary. If you prefer a spicier twist, a dash of red pepper flakes works wonderfully!

Can You Use Chicken Thighs in Greek Lemon Rice?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic option for this recipe. They’re juicier and more forgiving than chicken breasts, making them ideal for one-pot cooking. Thighs absorb the lemony, herbaceous flavors beautifully and stay tender even if slightly overcooked. To use thighs:

• Opt for boneless, skinless thighs for easier prep, or bone-in for richer flavor.
• Sear them for 4-5 minutes per side to develop a golden crust.
• Cooking time may increase by 5 minutes, so check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Thighs are also budget-friendly and add a touch of indulgence to this dish!

How Long to Cook Lemon Chicken and Rice?

The total cooking time for this Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice is about 35-40 minutes, including prep. Here’s the breakdown:

• Prep: 5-7 minutes (chopping onions, mincing garlic, juicing lemons).
• Searing Chicken: 6-8 minutes.
• Sautéing Aromatics and Toasting Rice: 3-5 minutes.
• Simmering: 15-20 minutes for the rice to absorb the broth and the chicken to cook through.

To ensure perfect results, use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken’s doneness and check that the rice is tender but not mushy.

What Rice Is Best for Greek Chicken and Rice?

Choosing the right rice is key to achieving the perfect texture. For this recipe, long-grain white rice (like jasmine or basmati) is ideal because it stays fluffy and separate. Here’s a quick guide:

• Jasmine Rice: Light, slightly floral, and widely available. Cooks in 15-18 minutes.
• Basmati Rice: Nutty flavor with distinct grains, perfect for Mediterranean dishes.
• Long-Grain Brown Rice: A healthier option with more fiber, but it requires 35-40 minutes of cooking and extra broth (about 1/2 cup).
• Avoid Short-Grain Rice: Varieties like arborio can become sticky and risotto-like, which isn’t suited for this dish.

Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch for the best texture.

Can You Make Greek Chicken and Rice in One Pot?

Yes, this recipe is designed as a one-pot meal, making it a weeknight hero! Using a single skillet or Dutch oven minimizes cleanup while allowing the rice to absorb the rich flavors of the chicken, lemon, and spices. Here’s why it works:

• The chicken sears in the pan, leaving flavorful browned bits.
• The rice cooks in the same pan, soaking up the broth and seasonings.
• A tight-fitting lid ensures even cooking and prevents the rice from drying out.

For best results, use a wide, deep skillet (10-12 inches) or a Dutch oven with a capacity of at least 4 quarts.

Is Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Healthy?

This dish is both delicious and nutritious, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters. Here’s why Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice is healthy:

• High in Protein: Chicken provides lean protein (about 25g per serving), supporting muscle health.
• Low in Fat: Using olive oil and lean chicken keeps the fat content moderate (around 10g per serving).
• Gluten-Free: Naturally free of gluten, perfect for those with sensitivities.
• Balanced Carbs: White rice offers quick energy (about 40g carbs per serving), while brown rice adds fiber.
• Rich in Nutrients: Lemon juice provides vitamin C, and parsley adds antioxidants.

To make it even healthier, use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, and reduce sodium by using low-sodium broth.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approx.):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 10g

Can You Freeze Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice?

Yes, this dish freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to do it:

• Cool Completely: Let the dish cool to room temperature to prevent condensation.
• Portion It: Divide into airtight, freezer-safe containers or bags. Single servings are ideal for quick meals.
• Freeze: Store for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference.
• Reheat: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore moisture.

Note: The rice may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavors remain vibrant. Avoid freezing garnishes like fresh parsley or lemon slices.

What to Serve with Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice?

This dish is a complete meal, but pairing it with complementary sides elevates the experience. Try these:

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, feta, and olives with a lemon-oregano dressing.
• Tzatziki: A creamy yogurt-cucumber dip adds a cooling contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant roasted with olive oil and herbs.
• Pita Bread: Warm, soft pita for scooping up the rice and sauce.
• Hummus: A side of hummus with veggies or pita chips for a Mediterranean spread.

For drinks, pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lemon.

How to Make Creamy Greek Lemon Rice with Chicken

For a creamier twist, you can transform this dish with a few simple additions:

1. Add Dairy: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or Greek yogurt at the end of cooking (after removing from heat) for a velvety texture.
2. Cheese Option: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of crumbled feta or grated Parmesan over the rice before serving for a tangy, creamy boost.
3. Thicken the Sauce: Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the broth during the last 5 minutes of simmering for a thicker, creamier sauce.
4. Extra Lemon: Add a tablespoon of lemon juice for a brighter, creamier flavor profile.

This creamy version pairs beautifully with a side of steamed greens or a cucumber salad to balance the richness.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice recipe is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a wholesome, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it tonight and let the zesty lemon and aromatic spices transport you to a Greek island!

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