Description
Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice is a vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean dish featuring tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served over fragrant lemon-infused rice. This recipe balances zesty citrus, garlic, and herbs for a healthy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Lemon Rice
- 2 cups long grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss well to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Prepare the Lemon Rice: Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the rinsed rice and butter, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish the Rice: Remove the saucepan from heat. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped fresh parsley. Set aside and keep warm.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water for 30 minutes prior to prevent burning.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and shows characteristic grill marks.
- Serve: Plate the grilled chicken skewers over the lemon rice. Garnish with additional parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to avoid burning.
- For added color and flavor, include vegetables such as bell peppers, red onion, or zucchini on the skewers.
- Consider serving with a side of traditional tzatziki sauce or a fresh Greek salad to complement the meal.
