Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice dish. Juicy, marinated chicken paired with fragrant lemon rice makes for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. Let’s jump into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients List
For the Greek Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lemon Rice
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon butter (or olive oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes (optional)
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: Approximately 4 servings
This fragrant and flavorful meal can be prepared in about an hour, though marinating the chicken for longer will enhance its flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes (or up to overnight for maximum flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Rice
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter (or heat olive oil) over medium heat. Add the rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until slightly golden.
- Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- While the rice is cooking, preheat a grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade.
- Grill the chicken on each side for about 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Fluff the lemon rice with a fork and serve it on a platter or individual plates.
- Top the rice with sliced grilled chicken and garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)
- Calories: 490
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Total Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 450mg
This meal is a well-rounded option, providing hearty protein alongside flavorful carbs, making it satisfying without being heavy.
Healthy Variations & Substitutes
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas marinated with similar spices for a delicious vegetarian dish.
- Brown Rice: Use brown rice instead of long-grain rice for added fiber and nutrients, keeping in mind the longer cooking time.
- Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, peas, or bell peppers with the rice for extra nutrients and color.
Serving Suggestions
This Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice pairs beautifully with:
- Greek Salad: Serve alongside a fresh Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese.
- Tzatziki Sauce: A side of tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, and garlic will complement the flavors wonderfully.
- Grilled Pita: Serve with warm grilled pita bread for a satisfying meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Rice: Follow the cooking time for the rice carefully, as overcooking can lead to mushy rice.
- Not Letting the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling helps to retain its juices, ensuring a moist result.
- Skipping Marination: For maximum flavor, don’t skip the marinating step! It enhances the chicken’s taste significantly.
Storage & Prep Tips
To keep your dish fresh:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop.
- Meal Prep: You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge for a quick dinner the next day.
Conclusion
This Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice dish is a delightful celebration of fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. With its juicy chicken and fragrant lemon rice, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Just ensure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can marinate the chicken in advance and prepare the rice just before serving to keep everything fresh.
4. What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or eaten cold as part of a salad.
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure the ingredients used are gluten-free.
Enjoy this satisfying Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice dish, and relish every delicious bite!