Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice Recipe

Introduction:
This Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice recipe brings together the bright, zesty flavors of Greek cuisine in a quick and easy 30-minute meal. Tender, juicy chicken is seasoned with classic Greek herbs and served alongside fluffy lemon-infused rice. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful, satisfying, and fresh. The combination of lemon, garlic, and oregano makes this dish irresistibly aromatic and delicious.

Ingredients:

For the Greek Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix to form a marinade. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 10-15 minutes, or you can marinate it ahead of time for a more intense flavor.

2. Cook the Rice:

In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and sauté for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted. Add the chicken broth (or water), lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once the rice is done, fluff with a fork and stir in the chopped fresh parsley if desired.

3. Cook the Chicken:

While the rice is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to the pan. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing.

4. Serve:

Serve the sliced chicken on top of the lemon rice, garnished with extra lemon wedges or fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Greek-inspired meal!

Benefits:

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
• Healthy: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and rich in vitamins and fiber from the rice and lemon.
• Fresh and Zesty: The bright lemon and herb flavors give a refreshing twist to a classic chicken and rice meal.
• Customizable: You can swap out the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 350-400 (depending on the size of the chicken and rice portions)
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sugar: 2g

(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.)

Conclusion:

This Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is the perfect meal when you’re short on time but want a dish packed with flavor. The savory chicken paired with the tangy lemon rice creates a balanced, delicious meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. It’s light, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying!

Lovers of Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice will appreciate:

• The balance of bright, fresh flavors from the lemon and herbs.
• How easy and quick it is to prepare, with minimal ingredients required.
• The versatility to customize the dish with your favorite vegetables or sides.

Enjoy this tasty and quick meal with your loved ones, and bring the flavors of Greece to your table in no time!