Imagine biting into a succulent piece of chicken marinated in zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, accompanied by fluffy rice that dances with flavors. This Easy Greek Lemon Chicken with Flavorful Rice will take your taste buds on a Mediterranean vacation without needing a passport or sunscreen It’s perfect for dinner parties or those nights when you want something special yet easy to whip up.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is the best way to marinate chicken?
- Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
- How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I can still hear my Aunt Maria’s infectious laughter echoing through her kitchen as she prepared this dish. It was always the highlight of our family gatherings. The aroma alone would lure everyone in like moths to a flame. Whether it’s a Sunday feast or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this meal promises to create unforgettable memories around your table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
A small paragraph of a Personal anecdote of 15 to 20 words sharing a specific experience with the recipe
When I served this dish at my last gathering, my friends begged for the recipe—some even suggested I start charging
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves that promise robust flavor; fresh is always best.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh-squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; avoid bottled juice if you can for optimal flavor.
- Dried Oregano: Essential for that authentic Greek taste; look for high-quality dried herbs.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances richness and flavor; trust me, you’ll taste the difference.
- Long-Grain Rice: I prefer basmati or jasmine rice; both provide lovely textures and absorb flavors well.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping it savory.
- Vegetables (Optional): Add bell peppers or zucchini for color and nutrition; you can never go wrong with more veggies
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate them for at least 30 minutes—longer if possible—for maximum flavor.
Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts once hot. Sear them until golden brown on both sides—about 5 minutes per side should do nicely.
Add Rice and Broth: Remove the chicken from the skillet temporarily and add rice to absorb all those delicious drippings. Pour in chicken broth while stirring gently to coat everything nicely.
Return Chicken and Simmer: Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet atop the rice mixture. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly and let simmer until rice is tender—about 15-20 minutes should suffice.
Fluff and Serve: Once cooked through, remove from heat and let sit covered for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing rice with a fork. Serve warm topped with freshly chopped parsley or some extra lemon zest
Enjoy preparing this Easy Greek Lemon Chicken with Flavorful Rice; it’s bound to become one of your favorites Each bite promises juicy chicken paired perfectly with fragrant rice—a combination that’ll have everyone asking when dinner is served again
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to maximize flavor, then sear it before cooking the rice for excellent layering.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out herbs or add veggies like bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick that enhances flavors beautifully
- Always let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender
- Pair with a side salad for a refreshing contrast to the savory dish
It was at my cousin’s wedding when I first made this dish, and believe me, everyone raved about it
FAQ
What is the best way to marinate chicken?
Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes to deepen the flavors effectively.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking it.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Easy Greek Lemon Chicken with Flavorful Rice
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in this Easy Greek Lemon Chicken with Flavorful Rice, a delightful dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine to your table. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe combines tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, served alongside fluffy rice infused with rich flavors.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 fresh lemons
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Optional: Bell peppers or zucchini
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- 2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear marinated chicken until golden brown on both sides (about 5 minutes each side).
- 3. Add Rice and Broth: Remove the chicken and add rice to absorb drippings. Pour in the chicken broth and stir gently.
- 4. Return Chicken and Simmer: Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet with rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer until rice is tender (15-20 minutes).
- 5. Fluff and Serve: Let sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing rice. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or lemon zest.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg