If you are craving a vibrant and mouthwatering meal that brings the zest of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen, then this Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe is the perfect dish for you. Tender, herb-infused chicken grilled to perfection pairs beautifully with fluffy, citrusy lemon rice, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will have you coming back for seconds. This recipe is not only a feast for the palate but also a straightforward, rewarding cooking adventure you’ll love sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is half the magic for this Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe. Each component is thoughtfully selected to build layers of flavor, keeping the dish fresh, hearty, and colorful. From zesty lemons to fragrant oregano, every item plays its part in this culinary symphony.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking and juicy bites.
- 4 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps infuse the marinade with flavor.
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brings bright acidity that tenderizes the chicken and awakens the palate.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a pungent and aromatic punch to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Greek herb that gives the chicken its unmistakable, earthy character.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every element’s taste and balances the zestiness.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat.
- Skewers (wooden or metal): Essential for grilling the chicken evenly.
- 1 cup long-grain rice: Absorbs the lemony broth while staying light and fluffy.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory depth.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Smooths the rice texture and enriches flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Lifts the rice with fresh, citrus brightness.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Adds fragrant citrus oils that brighten every mouthful.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season the rice perfectly.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For a vibrant, herbaceous garnish that completes the dish visually and in flavor.
How to Make Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Toss the chicken cubes into this aromatic marinade until every piece is well coated. This step is crucial because it allows the chicken to soak up the bright, herby flavors while tenderizing the meat. Cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—patience here guarantees juicy and flavorful skewers.
Step 2: Prepare Your Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least half an hour before grilling. This prevents them from catching fire and ensures they hold steady on the heat. Metal skewers are fantastic too and can be used straight away. Getting this prep right means smooth grilling without worrying about skewers burning or falling apart.
Step 3: Cook the Lemon Rice
While the chicken marinates, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice, stirring it for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s lightly toasted—this step adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the lemon beautifully. Next, pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season everything with salt and pepper, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for about 15 to 20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork when done to keep it light and airy.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken Skewers
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken cubes evenly onto your skewers and place them on the hot grill. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally to develop irresistible grill marks and ensuring the chicken cooks through without drying out. The aroma at this point is simply intoxicating!
Step 5: Plate and Garnish
Remove the skewers from the grill and lay them over a generous bed of your lemon rice. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that ties the entire Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe together.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or even a sprinkle of dill elevate this dish profoundly, adding color and brightness. A few lemon wedges on the side invite everyone to add an extra splash of citrus if they desire, enhancing that lively lime taste.
Side Dishes
Pair these skewers with a crisp Greek salad for crunch and freshness or some warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce for creamy coolness. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers also complement the smoky flavors beautifully for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the lemon rice molded into neat rounds using small bowls, topped with the skewers leaning across for height. Alternatively, serve family-style on a large platter with garnishes scattered around, making it feel like a festive, shared Mediterranean feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken skewers and lemon rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner that reheats wonderfully without losing flavor.
Freezing
The marinated but uncooked chicken skewers freeze very well; just keep them separated on a tray first, then transfer to freezer bags. For best results, freeze cooked lemon rice separately in a sealed container. Both can be kept frozen for up to 2 months without compromising taste.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the lemon rice in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to retain moisture. The chicken skewers reheat best under a grill or in a hot pan to revive their charred, smoky exterior without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative because they are juicy and flavorful, which makes them perfect for grilling. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs might take a little longer to cook through.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for 30 minutes?
While 30 minutes is ideal to let the flavors meld and tenderize the meat, you can marinate for as little as 15 minutes in a pinch. However, longer marination will always yield better taste and tenderness.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes, a grill pan or even a broiler works wonderfully if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. Just be sure to watch the chicken closely to prevent burning and flip often to get that nice char.
What type of rice works best for the lemon rice?
Long-grain rice is preferred because it stays fluffy and separate when cooked, absorbing the lemon broth beautifully. Avoid short-grain rice, as it can become sticky and clump together in this recipe.
Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! The chicken can be marinated the night before, and the lemon rice can be cooked in advance and reheated. This makes assembling and serving the Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe quick and easy when you’re ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients and simple, joyful cooking. It’s perfect for warm evenings, weekend grilling, or anytime you want a taste of the Mediterranean at home. Give it a try, and soon you’ll be sharing this flavorful favorite with everyone you know.
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Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Halal
Description
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Greece with these juicy Greek Chicken Skewers served alongside tangy Lemon Rice. This recipe features tender chicken marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, grilled to perfection and paired with aromatic lemon-infused rice topped with fresh parsley. Perfect for a healthy, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and impressive to serve.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Lemon Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
- Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. Metal skewers can be used directly without soaking.
- Toast the Rice: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the rice and stir for 2-3 minutes until it becomes lightly toasted, enhancing its flavor.
- Cook the Lemon Rice: Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest into the saucepan. Season with salt and pepper. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and all liquid is absorbed.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure optimal cooking and grill marks on the chicken skewers.
- Grill the Chicken Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the prepared skewers. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally to cook evenly and develop nice char marks until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill. Fluff the lemon rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving platter. Place the grilled chicken skewers on top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Notes
- For juicier chicken, do not overcook; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Wooden skewers must be soaked to prevent burning, while metal skewers require no preparation.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or to make it suitable for vegetarians if substituting the protein.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to taste for more or less tanginess.
- Leftover skewers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on a grill or skillet.
