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Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice: A Burst of Mediterranean Sunshine on Your Plate

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Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice: A Burst of Mediterranean Sunshine on Your Plate

Craving a meal that's both comforting and vibrantly flavorful? Look no further than this incredible Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice recipe! This trending dish is a delightful fusion of tender, juicy chicken marinated in classic Greek herbs and spices, paired with a zesty, aromatic lemon rice that perfectly complements the savory chicken. It's a taste of the Mediterranean that’s easy to make and guaranteed to become a new family favorite.

Why You'll Fall in Love with Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

This recipe offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The chicken, often marinated overnight, absorbs a depth of flavor from oregano, garlic, and lemon, resulting in incredibly tender and succulent bites. The lemon rice, cooked to fluffy perfection, is infused with bright lemon zest and juice, creating a refreshing counterpoint. It’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend gatherings.

Ingredients You'll Need:

  • For the Greek Chicken:

    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, cut into chunks)

    • 1/4 cup olive oil

    • 2 cloves garlic, minced

    • 1 tablespoon dried oregano

    • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

    • 1/2 teaspoon salt

    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

    • Juice of 1 lemon

  • For the Lemon Rice:

    • 2 tablespoons olive oil

    • 1 cup long-grain white rice (e.g., basmati or jasmine)

    • 2 cups chicken broth

    • Juice of 1 lemon

    • Zest of 1 lemon

    • 1/2 teaspoon salt

    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

    • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:


Step 1: Marinate the Greek Chicken

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

  2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated.

  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 2-4 hours, or even overnight for the best flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Greek Chicken

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard any remaining marinade).

  3. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet.

  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For extra crispiness, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Rice

  1. While the chicken is baking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

  2. Add the rice and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes, toasting it lightly.

  3. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.

  5. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve!

  1. Portion the fluffy lemon rice onto plates.

  2. Top each serving with a piece or two of the perfectly cooked Greek chicken.

  3. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley.

  4. Serve immediately and enjoy the taste of Greece! 

What to Serve with Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice:


This meal is quite complete on its own, but you can enhance it with some simple side dishes:

  • Greek Salad: A refreshing classic with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta.

  • Tzatziki Sauce: A cool and creamy yogurt-cucumber dip.

  • Warm Pita Bread: Perfect for scooping up any extra rice or sauce.

  • Steamed Green Beans: A light and healthy vegetable option.

FAQs About Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice:

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A: Yes, you can! Keep in mind that brown rice will require more liquid (around 2.5 cups) and a longer cooking time (about 40-45 minutes).

Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

A: Absolutely! Grilling the marinated chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor. Grill over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Q: How can I make the lemon flavor in the rice even stronger?

A: You can add another teaspoon of lemon zest or a squeeze more lemon juice right at the end of cooking, before fluffing the rice.

Conclusion

This Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice recipe is more than just a meal; it's a culinary journey to the sun-drenched shores of Greece! With its vibrant flavors, tender chicken, and zesty rice, it's sure to impress everyone at your table. It's simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious – give it a try tonight and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen!



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