Flavor-Packed Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice Recipe

Weeknight dinners never tasted so good with this mouthwatering Greek chicken souvlaki that brings Mediterranean flavors right to your table.

Marinated chicken pieces infused with zesty herbs and spices create a delightful blend of traditional Greek cuisine.

The tender, juicy chicken skewers promise a quick and satisfying meal that feels like a culinary escape.

Tangy lemon rice complements the perfectly grilled meat, adding brightness and depth to every bite.

Fresh herbs and a simple marinade transform ordinary chicken into an extraordinary dish that will transport you to the sunny shores of Greece.

Each skewer bursts with robust flavors that make you feel like you’re dining in a charming taverna.

Prepare to savor this simple yet spectacular Greek classic that’s sure to become a family favorite.

What Makes Greek Chicken With Lemon Rice a Hit

• Burst with Mediterranean Flavors: Capture the essence of Greek cuisine with this simple, zesty chicken souvlaki that transports your taste buds.
• Quick and Effortless Prep: Whip up this delicious meal with minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, perfect for busy home cooks craving authentic flavor.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends with a protein-packed dish that works beautifully for casual dinners, potlucks, or weekend gatherings.
• Healthy and Nutritious Option: Enjoy a protein-rich meal packed with fresh herbs, lean chicken, and bright citrus notes that offer a wholesome, balanced dinner solution.

Ingredients for Souvlaki and Zesty Lemon Rice

• Chicken: Tender meat that soaks up delicious Greek-style marinade.

• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice, Garlic, Oregano, Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper: Zesty blend that transforms chicken with Mediterranean flavors.

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy and fragrant grain perfect for absorbing lemony goodness.

• Chicken Broth, Butter: Rich, creamy base that adds depth to rice.

• Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest: Bright citrus notes that make the rice sing.

• Parsley: Fresh green herb that adds a pop of color and freshness.

• Wooden Skewers: Essential tool for grilling chicken pieces evenly.

How to Cook Greek Chicken With Rice in One Meal

Step 1: Whip Up Marinade Magic

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, finely chopped garlic, dried oregano, sweet paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

Whisk these ingredients together until they create a harmonious blend of flavors that will transform your chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• Chicken chunks
• Prepared marinade

Toss the chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring each morsel is completely coated.

Cover the bowl and let it rest in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes, though 2 hours will develop even more intense flavors.

Step 3: Prepare Lemon-Infused Rice

• Basmati rice
• Chicken broth
• Butter
• Lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Fresh parsley

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch.

In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and butter to a rolling boil.

Add the rice, lower the heat, and cover.

Simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is fully absorbed.

Finish by stirring in lemon juice, zest, and chopped parsley.

Fluff with a fork and keep warm.

Step 4: Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.

Pro tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

Cook the chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes on each side, ensuring they develop a beautiful char and reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the aromatic lemon rice and crown it with the perfectly grilled chicken skewers.

Sprinkle additional chopped parsley for a burst of fresh color and flavor.

Pro Tips for Juicy Chicken and Tangy Rice

• Let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 2 hours to allow the herbs and spices to deeply infuse the meat, creating a more intense and delicious taste.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before grilling to stop them from catching fire and potentially ruining your perfectly seasoned chicken.
• Always rinse basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy and separate grains that won't clump together.
• Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F/74°C, guaranteeing it's fully cooked and safe to eat while maintaining juicy tenderness.
• Sprinkle extra chopped parsley over the dish just before serving to add a burst of fresh color and brighten the overall flavor profile.

How to Store and Reheat This Greek-Inspired Meal

• Store leftover chicken souvlaki and lemon rice in separate airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• Place chicken and rice in a microwave-safe dish. Sprinkle a few drops of water over the rice to prevent dryness. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.
• Warm chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil, turning occasionally to maintain moisture and restore crispy edges. Simultaneously, reheat rice in a separate pan, adding a little broth to refresh texture.
• Consume reheated chicken within 2 days for best taste and texture. Discard if the meat develops an off smell or looks discolored.

Great Pairings for Souvlaki and Rice

• Pairing Citrus White Wine: Select a crisp, zesty Assyrtiko or Moschofilero from Greece that complements the lemon-infused chicken and rice, enhancing the bright Mediterranean flavors.
• Match Fresh Greek Salad: Prepare a classic horiatiki with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese to provide a cool, crunchy contrast to the warm grilled chicken skewers.
• Create Tzatziki Sauce: Whip up a tangy yogurt-based dip with grated cucumber, garlic, dill, and olive oil to add creamy richness and cut through the charred meat's intensity.
• Serve Ouzo Spritzer: Mix a small amount of traditional Greek anise-flavored liqueur with sparkling water and a lemon twist, offering a refreshing aperitif that mirrors the dish's citrusy profile.

Mediterranean Spin Ideas for Greek Chicken

• Vegetarian Kebab Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, marinating using the same Greek-inspired seasonings for a plant-based protein alternative.
• Low-Carb Rice Substitute: Swap basmati rice with cauliflower rice, maintaining the lemon and herb flavors while reducing carbohydrate content for keto dieters.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all ingredients like broth and spices are certified gluten-free, and serve with quinoa instead of traditional rice for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Mediterranean Seafood Version: Substitute chicken with shrimp or white fish chunks, adjusting cooking time to prevent overcooking while preserving the zesty marinade profile.

FAQs

• What is the best type of chicken to use for souvlaki?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast work perfectly. Thighs offer more flavor and tenderness, while breasts are leaner. Cut into uniform chunks for even cooking.

• Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Absolutely! Use a grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or broiler. Each method will give slightly different char and flavor, but the chicken will still taste delicious.

• How do I prevent my chicken from becoming dry?

Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but preferably 2 hours. The olive oil and lemon juice help keep the meat moist. Don’t overcook – chicken should reach 165°F internal temperature.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the basic ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all your individual ingredients, like broth and spices, are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.

Easy Greek Chicken Souvlaki With Lemon Rice Recipe

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4.5 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Greek chicken souvlaki dances with zesty Mediterranean flavors, promising a culinary journey through traditional Greek cuisine. Tender marinated chicken skewers paired with fragrant lemon rice create a perfect harmony that transports you to sunny Aegean coastlines.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 2 lbs (907 grams) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks

Herbs and Spices:

• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Liquid and Aromatics:

• 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) olive oil
• 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

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Instructions

1. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a spacious mixing container to create a vibrant marinade.
2. Immerse chicken chunks thoroughly in the marinade, ensuring each piece is completely coated. Seal the container and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours, allowing flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
3. Meticulously rinse basmati rice under cold water until the liquid becomes transparent, removing excess starch for fluffy results.
4. Combine chicken broth and butter in a saucepan, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil. Introduce rice, reduce heat to minimal, and cover. Simmer for approximately 15 minutes until liquid is completely absorbed.
5. Enhance rice with fresh lemon juice, delicate lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Gently fluff with a fork and maintain warmth.
6. Prepare wooden skewers by soaking them in water for 20 minutes to prevent charring during cooking.
7. Thread marinated chicken pieces carefully onto prepared skewers, ensuring even distribution.
8. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature for optimal searing and caramelization.
9. Grill chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, achieving a perfectly cooked interior with slightly charred exterior. Verify doneness by confirming internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C.
10. Artfully plate lemon-infused rice and arrange grilled chicken skewers on top. Garnish with additional fresh parsley for a vibrant, aromatic presentation.

Notes

• Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor infusion, up to 8 hours in the refrigerator for maximum taste development.
• Soak wooden skewers thoroughly to prevent burning and potential fire hazards during grilling.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches precise internal temperature for safe consumption.
• Swap chicken with tofu or firm vegetables for vegetarian version, maintaining identical marinade and cooking technique.

• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 25.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 50 g
• Cholesterol: 180 mg