Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Greece with this one-pot wonder! Juicy lemon-infused chicken thighs bake alongside fragrant rice, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

This easy-to-prepare dish bursts with Mediterranean flair, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Last summer, I stumbled upon a mouthwatering Instagram reel showcasing a vibrant dish: Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice. Intrigued by the simplicity of the recipe and the promise of bold flavors, I decided to recreate it at home. The result was a resounding success, with my family raving about the dish for days.

The secret to this dish lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. By combining juicy, lemon-marinated chicken thighs with fragrant rice, olives, and fresh herbs, you create a meal that’s both comforting and exciting.

The lemon juice not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses the rice with a bright, citrusy flavor.

The key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors is to use high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh herbs like oregano and thyme, which add a fragrant and herbaceous note to the dish.

Additionally, using good-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall flavor profile.

While the original recipe was a great starting point, I added my own twist by incorporating sun-dried tomatoes into the rice mixture. The sweet and tangy flavor of the sun-dried tomatoes complemented the lemon and herbs beautifully, elevating the dish to new heights.

This Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is the perfect weeknight meal. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal hands-on time, and is packed with flavor. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and embark on a culinary journey to Greece.

Ingredients for Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

For the Chicken:

·         Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, chicken thighs are a great choice for this recipe. The skin adds a crispy texture, while the bone helps to keep the meat moist.

·         Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: The bright, citrusy flavor of lemon is a classic pairing with chicken. Freshly squeezed lemon juice tenderizes the meat, while the zest adds a fragrant note.

·         Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds depth of flavor to the marinade. Look for an oil that is cold-pressed and has a fruity flavor profile.

For the Rice:

·         Long-Grain White Rice: This type of rice holds its shape well and absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients. It’s a versatile choice for many dishes.

·         Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds richness and flavor to the rice. For a more flavorful broth, consider using homemade chicken broth.

·         Kalamata Olives: These briny olives add a salty, tangy flavor to the dish. Look for olives that are pitted and packed in olive oil.

·         Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes bring a sweet and savory flavor to the rice. I prefer to use organic sun-dried tomatoes, as they are often free from harmful pesticides and additives.

Additional Ingredients

• Fresh Oregano: This fragrant herb is a staple of Greek cuisine. Fresh oregano adds a bright, herbaceous flavor to the dish.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a pungent, savory flavor to the marinade and rice.
• Red Onion: A red onion adds a subtle sweetness and a touch of color to the dish.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty, tangy flavor and a creamy texture to the dish. I like to use organic feta cheese, as it is often made with milk from grass-fed sheep and goats.

By carefully selecting high-quality ingredients, you can elevate this simple dish to new heights.

Recipe Instructions: 

Let’s get cooking!

First, we’ll prep the chicken. In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Toss to coat, then let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

While the chicken marinates, let’s prep the rice. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened.

Then, stir in the rice, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs. Toast the rice for a few minutes, stirring constantly.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Finally, let’s bake the chicken. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and its skin is crispy.

Once the chicken and rice are ready, fluff the rice with a fork and divide it among plates. Top with the baked chicken thighs, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Chef Tips

Tip # 1: Elevate Your Rice

For a more flavorful rice, consider adding a pinch of saffron or turmeric to the broth. These spices will not only add color but also a unique flavor profile.

Tip # 2: Citrus Burst

Squeeze a fresh lemon wedge over the dish before serving for an extra burst of citrusy flavor.

Tip # 3: Herby Twist

Experiment with different herbs like dill, mint, or parsley to add a fresh and fragrant twist to the dish.

Tip # 4: Crispy Skin

To achieve extra crispy skin on the chicken, pat it dry with paper towels before marinating.

Tip # 5: One-Pot Wonder

For a hands-off approach, consider cooking the entire dish in one pot. Sear the chicken, add the rice and broth, then bake it in the oven until everything is cooked through.

FAQs