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
Scale
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.
