The aroma of garlic and lemon wafts through the air as you prepare this Easy Greek Lemon Chicken with Flavorful Rice. It’s a dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds while transporting you straight to a sun-drenched Mediterranean island. Picture yourself lounging on a terrace overlooking azure waters, fork in hand, eagerly anticipating every juicy bite.

This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about bringing people together. I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends – their eyes widened with delight as they took their first bites. The zesty flavors combined with the tender chicken and fluffy rice created an unforgettable dining experience that had everyone asking for seconds (and sometimes thirds.).

A special memory involves my friend Sam’s enthusiastic reaction after trying this dish at a dinner party; his epic praise still echoes in my mind.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust according to your guest list.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for the best flavor; it’s the secret hero of this dish.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for that rich Mediterranean taste.
• Fresh Lemons: Squeeze fresh lemons; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it in terms of flavor.
• Oregano: Fresh or dried oregano adds that signature herbaceous note typical in Greek cuisine.
• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to better control the saltiness in your dish.
• Long Grain Rice: This type cooks beautifully and soaks up all those lovely flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; don’t be shy—season generously.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot enough to shimmer slightly, add minced garlic until fragrant but not burnt—about 30 seconds will do.

Add the Chicken: Place marinated chicken into the skillet gently; listen for that satisfying sizzle. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.

Cook the Rice: While chicken cooks, rinse rice under cold water until clear to remove excess starch. Then add it to a separate pot with chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Add Flavors: Once boiling, reduce heat and cover the pot tightly. Simmer until rice absorbs all liquid—around 15-18 minutes works wonders.

Combine Everything: Once both chicken and rice are ready together in one glorious pot—add cooked rice into the skillet with any remaining marinade juices and stir gently to combine flavors.

Now you’ve got an Easy Greek Lemon Chicken with Flavorful Rice ready to impress even your most discerning friends.

Serve up portions garnished with fresh parsley or additional lemon slices if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece while basking in compliments from friends or family around you.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least one hour, then sear it to lock in juices before baking for 25-30 minutes.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap lemon with lime or add herbs like thyme for an extra flavor boost that brings excitement to your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

The first time I made Easy Greek Lemon Chicken with Flavorful Rice, my friends devoured it within minutes and begged for the recipe, proving that delicious food truly brings people together.

FAQ

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least one hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pair this dish with a fresh Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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Easy Greek Lemon Chicken with Flavorful Rice

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• Author: Ann Foster
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean with this Easy Greek Lemon Chicken served over flavorful rice, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cloves fresh garlic
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 2 fresh lemons
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken: Mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken breasts and coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Cook the chicken: Place marinated chicken in the skillet; cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Cook the rice: Rinse rice under cold water until clear. Combine with chicken broth in a separate pot; bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
5. Combine everything: Add cooked rice to the skillet with any remaining marinade juices; stir gently to combine.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 365
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg