Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines tender marinated chicken with a zesty, aromatic lemon rice. The marinated chicken is infused with Mediterranean herbs and spices, while the rice is perfectly seasoned with lemon and olive oil, making it a hearty yet refreshing meal. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or when you’re craving a taste of Greece.

ingredients

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

For the chicken:
boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
olive oil
fresh lemon juice
garlic (minced)
dried oregano
ground cumin (optional)
salt and black pepper

For the rice:
long-grain white rice or basmati rice
chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
fresh lemon juice and zest
olive oil
butter (optional)
salt and pepper

directions

For the chicken:

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper.

Add chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

For the rice:

Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.

In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the rice and sauté for 2–3 minutes until lightly toasted.

Add chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Fluff the rice with a fork and adjust seasoning if needed.

To serve:

Plate the rice and top with sliced grilled chicken. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley, more lemon wedges, or crumbled feta cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes – 2 hours
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions for extra flavor and color.
Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier, fiber-packed option.
Top with tzatziki sauce for a refreshing twist.
Add olives or cherry tomatoes for more Mediterranean flair.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful result.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or chicken broth.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months—store rice and chicken separately if possible.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice?

Yes, you can use jasmine rice, brown rice, or quinoa, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I make the chicken ahead?

Yes, marinate and grill the chicken a day ahead for easy meal prep.

Is this dish spicy?

No, it’s mild with a refreshing lemon and herb flavor, but you can add red pepper flakes for heat.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, just skip the butter or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I serve this with a salad?

Yes, a Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives pairs perfectly with this dish.

What can I do with leftovers?

Turn leftovers into a wrap with pita or tortillas, or add some hummus for a lighter lunch.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a bright, flavorful meal that combines tender chicken with perfectly seasoned rice, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep option. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs provide a refreshing Mediterranean twist, and with its balance of protein and carbs, this dish is as satisfying as it is healthy.