Name: Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487489H21M51S
Total time: PT-487489H21M51S
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: Boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces; Olive oil; Lemon zest and juice; Garlic; Dried oregano; Salt; Black pepper; Wooden or metal skewers; Long-grain white rice; Chicken broth (or water); Onions, finely chopped; Butter or olive oil; Lemon juice; Chopped fresh parsley or dill; Optional salt and pepper to taste

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Get ready to transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with this irresistible Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice. Perfectly juicy marinated chicken threaded onto skewers, kissed by the grill, and paired with fluffy, fragrant lemon rice makes this dish both vibrant and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or craving a fresh and flavorful weeknight meal, Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice will quickly become a staple that brings warmth and brightness to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The charm of Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice lies in the simplicity and harmony of its ingredients. Every component plays a crucial role—bringing zest, savoriness, and a pop of fresh color—that come together to create a dish that’s so much more than the sum of its parts.

Boneless skinless chicken thighs: These stay wonderfully juicy on the grill and soak up the bold flavors of the marinade.
Olive oil: The foundation of Mediterranean cooking, olive oil brings richness and helps carry the flavors of the marinade deep into the chicken.
Lemon zest and juice: Both are essential for bright, tangy notes that elevate both the skewers and the rice.
Garlic: A little minced garlic gives the chicken an aromatic backbone that makes each bite pop.
Dried oregano: This classic Greek herb lends its earthy, slightly minty flavor to both the marinade and the overall dish.
Salt and black pepper: Simple, but crucial, for balancing and enhancing every flavor.
Wooden or metal skewers: Skewers keep everything easy to grill and serve—just be sure to soak wooden ones first to prevent burning.
Long-grain white rice: The base for your lemon rice, staying fluffy and separate once cooked.
Chicken broth (or water): Cooking the rice in broth adds savory depth, but water works in a pinch.
Onions, finely chopped: Sautéed onion provides a sweet, aromatic boost to the lemon rice.
Butter or olive oil: Use either for sautéing onions and to bring a subtle richness to the rice.
Chopped fresh parsley or dill: A generous handful tossed in at the end brings so much freshness and pretty color.
Optional salt and pepper to taste: Finish the rice just right with an extra pinch or two if needed, ensuring all the flavors shine.

How to Make Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Toss in the bite-sized pieces of chicken, making sure every bit is glossy and well-coated in that fragrant marinade. Let them relax in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (but an hour or two is best), as this gives the flavors time to work their magic and results in truly mouthwatering Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice.

Step 2: Thread the Skewers

Once marinated, thread the juicy pieces of chicken onto your skewers, leaving just a bit of space between them for even cooking. If using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for at least 20 minutes beforehand—this step helps keep them from burning under high heat.

Step 3: Grill or Broil the Skewers

Fire up your grill or set your broiler to medium-high heat. Arrange the chicken skewers over the heat source and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning once for beautiful grill marks and gorgeously charred edges. The chicken is done when no longer pink inside and the edges have those irresistible golden brown spots. Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in every juicy bite.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Rice

While your chicken is grilling, grab a saucepan and start the rice. Sauté the finely chopped onion in butter or olive oil over medium heat until softened and fragrant. Add in your long-grain rice and toast it for a minute or two—this step builds a deeper flavor foundation. Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and fresh lemon juice, bring it all to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and let cook until the rice is tender and fluffy. Fluff with a fork and stir in loads of chopped fresh parsley or dill to wake up the flavors.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Spoon a generous bed of lemon rice onto each plate, then top with the sizzling chicken skewers. Finish it all off with another squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a scatter of more herbs for a dish that’s both casual and visually impressive—Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice at its most inviting!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice

Garnishes

Garnish your Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice with an extra showering of fresh parsley or dill, a little more grated lemon zest, and a few wedges of lemon on the side. Not only do these finishing touches add a burst of citrusy aroma and color, but they also let everyone adjust the freshness to their own taste. For extra authenticity, a dollop of creamy tzatziki or a sprinkle of crumbled feta brings something special to the table.

Side Dishes

This meal is hearty enough on its own, but you can’t go wrong pairing it with a Greek salad bursting with tomatoes, cucumbers, feta, and olives. Roasted vegetables or lightly grilled pita are also fantastic accompaniments. Each side picks up the sunny flavors and helps transform your Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice into a full, celebratory spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chicken skewers over rice family-style on a large platter, scattered with extra herbs and lemon slices for a dramatic, inviting look. For picnics or parties, slide the chicken off the skewers and wrap them up with rice and salad in warm pita bread—think Greek-inspired wraps. For weeknight lunches, pack the rice and chicken in separate containers and assemble just before eating to keep everything fresh.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep those flavors as bright as possible, store leftover Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken and rice will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Store them separately if you can; it helps the rice from getting too soggy and makes reheating more even.

Freezing

Both the chicken (cooked and cooled) and lemon rice can be frozen for longer storage. Freeze the skewers in a gallon zip-top bag, and the rice in a separate container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let everything thaw overnight in the fridge. This way, a quick, homemade Greek feast is always within reach—even on your busiest days.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook and dry it out. The lemon rice can be fluffed with a fork and microwaved (add a splash of water if it seems dry). Both the chicken and rice taste just as good when reheated—maybe even better, as the flavors meld and deepen.

FAQs

How do I prevent my chicken skewers from drying out?

Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes, use chicken thighs for juiciness, and don’t overcook them. Keep a close eye while grilling; the pieces are small and cook quickly. A short rest after cooking also helps keep everything juicy and tender.

Can I substitute chicken breast for thighs?

Absolutely! While thighs give you more flavor and tenderness, breasts are a leaner option. Just shorten the grill or broil time so they don’t dry out, since chicken breast cooks faster than thighs.

Is Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chicken broth is gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Double-check all packaged ingredients to be sure if you have a gluten sensitivity.

How do I keep my skewers from burning?

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before threading the chicken. This simple step helps prevent them from burning or catching fire during grilling or broiling.

What’s the best way to meal-prep Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice?

Marinate the chicken and prepare the rice ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and cook the skewers just before eating, so everything tastes fresh and vibrant. Pack leftovers in single-serving containers for lunchboxes or quick dinners.

Final Thoughts

If you love bright, zesty flavors and satisfying meals that transport you to another place, Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice is a recipe you’ll turn to time and again. It’s easier than you think, always impressive, and just downright delicious. Grab some fresh lemons and give it a try—you’ll be dreaming of the Mediterranean with every bite!

Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe

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4.7 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: Approx. 35–40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice are a delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines flavorful marinated chicken skewers with zesty lemon rice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers:

Boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
Olive oil
Lemon zest and juice
Garlic
Dried oregano
Salt
Black pepper
Wooden or metal skewers

For the Lemon Rice:

Long-grain white rice
Chicken broth (or water)
Onions, finely chopped
Butter or olive oil
Lemon juice
Chopped fresh parsley or dill
Optional salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours.
Cook the skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Grill or broil the skewers over medium-high heat until chicken is cooked through and has grill marks, about 5–7 minutes per side. Let rest for a few minutes.
Prepare the lemon rice: In a separate pot, sauté chopped onions in butter or olive oil until softened. Stir in rice and cook briefly. Add chicken broth and lemon juice, bring to a boil, cover, and simmer until rice is tender. Fluff the rice, then stir in chopped parsley or dill. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
Plate and serve: Serve the chicken skewers over the lemon rice and enjoy!