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Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice
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Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a fresh, hearty one-pan dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in zesty lemon and herbs, cooked alongside fluffy long-grain rice infused with garlic, oregano, and bright citrus flavors. Perfectly balanced with savory herbs and vibrant lemon notes, this meal is quick and straightforward to prepare, family-friendly, and ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • Juice of 2 fresh lemons (about 1/4 cup)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Rice and Cooking Liquid

  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade and Chicken: In a bowl, combine fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken thighs in this mixture and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes to infuse the meat with vibrant, citrusy flavors.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs skin side down and cook until golden brown and crisp, about 5 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Toast Rice: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Then stir in the rice, toasting it lightly for a couple of minutes to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent clumping.
  4. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in chicken broth and fresh lemon zest, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Nestle the chicken thighs back into the pan atop the rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 20 minutes.
  5. Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, aromatic finish.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken thighs: They impart more flavor and stay moist better than boneless cuts.
  • Don’t skip toasting the rice: It adds a subtle nutty depth that transforms the dish.
  • Rest before serving: Letting the dish sit covered helps the flavors meld and the rice finish steaming perfectly.
  • Keep lemon zest and juice separate: Adding zest during cooking boosts aroma, while fresh juice at the end adds brightness.
  • Use fresh herbs: They elevate the dish’s vibrancy and keep flavors lively and fresh.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek chicken, lemon rice, one-pan meal, Mediterranean, easy dinner, citrus chicken, herbs, healthy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/greek-chicken-and-lemon-rice/