If you are craving a vibrant and fresh Mediterranean meal that’s bursting with flavor, the Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines tender, juicy grilled chicken marinated in zesty lemon and herbs, served atop fluffy, fragrant lemon rice that perfectly complements every bite. It’s a delightful balance of tangy, savory, and herbaceous notes that will quickly make it one of your favorite go-to dinners for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these ingredients together is simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in bringing that authentic Greek flair to your table. From the bright acidity of lemon to the earthy depth of oregano and the richness of olive oil, these components create a harmonious flavor profile and a visually inviting dish.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and perfect skewer portions.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to tenderize the chicken and adds a smooth, fruity richness.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Infuses the marinade and rice with fresh, citrusy brightness.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Adds a punch of pungent, aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Enhances the tanginess and balances the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried): Lends an unmistakable Mediterranean herbiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Brings all the flavors together and seasons the chicken beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
- Wooden skewers (soaked if using): Prevents burning while grilling and makes serving easy.
- 1 ½ cups long grain white rice: The perfect base that absorbs all the lemony goodness.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Cooks the rice with rich flavor instead of plain water.
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Double the lemon power for that irresistible citrus aroma.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds silkiness and richness to the rice.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Provides fresh color and a subtle peppery note.
How to Make Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This marinade creates layers of flavor that soak into the chicken cubes, making every bite juicy and flavorful. Toss the chicken in this mixture and cover it to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for maximum tenderness and zing.
Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
While your chicken is soaking up all those delicious flavors, soak the wooden skewers in water to prevent them from burning during grilling. Once ready, thread the marinated chicken cubes evenly onto the skewers, ensuring they’re not crowded so the heat cooks through evenly.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are fully cooked and have those gorgeous light char marks. The grilling process adds a smoky depth and caramelization to the meat that elevates the dish to restaurant-worthy status.
Step 4: Cook the Lemon Rice
While the chicken skews are grilling, bring your chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in the rice, lemon zest, and lemon juice, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and mix in butter and fresh parsley for a velvety finish packed with herbaceous notes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the warm lemon rice and lay the grilled chicken skewers right on top. Whether you garnish it or add sides, this visually stunning and aromatic meal is ready to be savored!
How to Serve Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate the presentation and add an extra zing. Try sprinkling more fresh parsley over the dish or adding bright lemon wedges on the side so everyone can add a burst of citrus to their liking.
Side Dishes
Complement your chicken skewers and lemon rice with classic Greek sides like tzatziki sauce, a refreshing Greek salad bursting with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta, or grilled vegetables such as peppers and zucchini for a complete Mediterranean feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting family-style meal, consider serving the skewers on a large platter with rice spooned around the edges, garnished with herbs and lemon slices. Alternatively, serve individual plates with perfectly arranged skewers over a neat mound of lemon rice for a restaurant-level experience at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Greek chicken skewers and lemon rice can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a fantastic next-day meal that reheats beautifully without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to save the skewers for longer, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately for up to 2 months. Freeze the lemon rice in a separate container to maintain the best taste and texture. Be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat both the lemon rice and chicken skewers gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to the rice if needed to keep it fluffy. For the chicken, reheating in a hot skillet or under the broiler for a couple of minutes refreshes the char and juiciness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you juicier, more tender skewers and an extra depth of flavor, especially if you like your meat a bit richer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
Do I have to soak the wooden skewers?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes helps prevent them from burning on the grill while you’re cooking your delicious chicken.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Definitely! You can cook the skewers under a broiler or on a grill pan indoors. Just watch carefully to mimic the nice char and cook the meat evenly.
How can I make the lemon rice more flavorful?
Using chicken broth instead of water for cooking the rice adds great depth, and the lemon zest combined with fresh lemon juice gives it that bright, fresh flavor that ties it all together. Stirring in butter and fresh parsley just finishes it perfectly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option if you need to avoid gluten but still want a hearty and satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
You’re going to love the fresh flavors and satisfying textures of the Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe. It’s a welcoming, easy-to-make dish that brings a little sunshine and Mediterranean magic right to your dining table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it one of your favorite meals to enjoy and share with friends and family.
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Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes to 2 hours marinating time)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice combine tender, juicy grilled chicken marinated in a zesty lemon and oregano mixture, served over fragrant and buttery lemon-infused rice. Perfectly balanced with fresh herbs and bright citrus flavors, this dish is a wholesome, gluten-free Mediterranean main course ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden skewers, soaked if using
For the Lemon Rice
- 1 ½ cups long grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss well to coat all pieces evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
- Prepare Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, ensuring the pieces are packed but not overly crowded for even cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure all sides are lightly charred and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Cook the Lemon Rice: While the chicken cooks, bring the chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in the rice, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish the Rice: Remove the rice from heat. Fluff gently with a fork, then stir in the butter and chopped fresh parsley to add richness and freshness.
- Serve: Plate the lemon rice and top with the grilled chicken skewers. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges if desired for an added burst of flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For added variety and flavor, grill vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions alongside the chicken skewers.
- Substitute chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more flavorful skewers.
- Serve with tzatziki sauce or a fresh Greek salad to complete the meal.
