Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice

Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, combining the smokiness of grilled chicken with the bright, zesty aroma of lemon infused rice. The chicken is marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, creating a tender and juicy bite with every skewer. Paired with fluffy, buttery basmati rice infused with fresh lemon juice and zest, this dish delivers the perfect balance of savory and citrusy flavors.

Ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and special gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and full of vibrant, fresh ingredients. Whether served with a side of tzatziki, a crisp Greek salad, or warm pita bread, these skewers will transport you straight to a seaside taverna in Greece. Simple, delicious, and full of Mediterranean charm, this dish is a must try for any food lover!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Skewers:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Lemon Rice:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

Prepare the Marinade:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Chicken:

2. Add the chicken chunks to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours.

Cook the Lemon Rice:

4. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
5. In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and butter to a boil.
6. Stir in rice, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
7. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Keep warm.

Skewer the Chicken:

8. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.

Grill the Skewers:

9. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
10. Cook the chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through and lightly charred.

Serve:

11. Plate the lemon rice and top with grilled chicken skewers. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Marinate Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Kcal: 435 kcal | Servings: 4

Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice: A Mediterranean Delight

Greek cuisine is celebrated for its fresh, vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. One of the most beloved dishes that perfectly embodies this tradition is Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice. This dish brings together tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection and a fragrant, zesty rice infused with butter, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. It’s a perfect combination of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for a family gathering, these Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice will satisfy your cravings. The dish is simple to prepare and full of bold Mediterranean flavors that transport you straight to the streets of Greece. Let’s dive deeper into the history, key elements, and some tips to make this meal even more delicious.

The Origins of Greek Chicken Skewers (Souvlaki)

Greek Chicken Skewers, commonly known as souvlaki, have been a staple in Greek cuisine for centuries. The word “souvlaki” comes from the Greek word “souvla,” which means skewer. Grilling meat on skewers dates back to ancient Greece, where archaeological evidence shows that people cooked small portions of meat over open flames as early as 2000 BC.

Souvlaki is one of the most popular street foods in Greece today. Traditionally, it is made with pork, chicken, or lamb, marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano before being grilled. It is often served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables. This method of cooking preserves the meat’s tenderness while enhancing its natural flavors with a smoky char.

The pairing of Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice is a modern adaptation that combines two essential elements of Mediterranean cooking grilled meat and fragrant, citrus-infused rice. The bright, tangy rice perfectly complements the herby, juicy chicken, making this meal both satisfying and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bursting with Mediterranean Flavors
   The combination of lemon, garlic, olive oil, and oregano gives this dish its signature Greek taste. Every bite is infused with fresh, zesty flavors that make it both light and satisfying.
2. Perfectly Juicy and Tender Chicken
   Marinating the chicken before grilling ensures that each piece is tender, juicy, and infused with delicious Mediterranean spices. The grill adds a slightly charred, smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste.
3. Aromatic and Flavorful Lemon Rice
   The lemon rice is a standout feature of this dish. Cooking it with chicken broth and butter adds richness, while fresh lemon juice and zest bring a refreshing citrus balance. The final touch of fresh parsley gives it an extra layer of color and taste.
4. Healthy and Nutritious
   This dish is high in protein from the chicken and provides essential nutrients from the olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. Basmati rice, when paired with lean grilled meat, offers a balanced and wholesome meal.
5. Easy to Make and Versatile
   While this recipe is simple and quick to prepare, it is also incredibly versatile. You can swap out the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or lamb, and adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
6. Great for Meal Prep
   Both the chicken and lemon rice can be stored separately in the refrigerator and reheated for easy meals throughout the week. It’s a great recipe for those who love to prepare food in advance.

Tips for Making the Best Greek Chicken Skewers

1. Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
   The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and tender it will be. A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, but for the best results, let it sit for at least 2 hours or overnight. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic helps to break down the chicken fibers, making it juicy and delicious.
2. Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness
   While chicken breast can also be used, chicken thighs are preferred for their natural fat content, which keeps them moist and flavorful even after grilling.
3. Preheat Your Grill Properly
   For the best sear and smoky flavor, ensure your grill is properly preheated to medium-high heat before cooking the skewers. This will help achieve that beautiful golden brown char on the outside while keeping the inside tender.
4. Soak Wooden Skewers Before Grilling
   If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken. This prevents them from burning on the grill. Alternatively, metal skewers can be used for an eco-friendly and reusable option.
5. Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving
   After grilling, allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

Lemon Rice: The Perfect Side Dish

Lemon Rice is a classic Mediterranean side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables. It is light, fragrant, and easy to prepare, making it a great alternative to plain rice.

Why Lemon Rice Works So Well with Greek Chicken Skewers

• The citrus acidity from the lemon juice brightens up the entire dish.
• Cooking the rice in chicken broth and butter adds a rich depth of flavor.
• Fresh herbs like parsley add color and freshness to the meal.
• The fluffy texture of basmati rice absorbs the flavors beautifully, complementing the smoky, herby chicken skewers.

If you’re looking for a low carb option, you can substitute basmati rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa while keeping the same delicious flavors.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Greek Chicken Skewers

To complete your meal, consider adding these classic Mediterranean sides:

• Tzatziki Sauce – A refreshing Greek yogurt sauce with cucumber, garlic, and dill.
• Greek Salad – A simple and vibrant mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, feta cheese, and olives.
• Pita Bread – Perfect for wrapping the chicken skewers or scooping up the rice.
• Grilled Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant add a smoky, caramelized touch to your plate.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

One of the best things about this dish is how well it keeps for leftovers.

• Refrigerate: Store the grilled chicken and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. The rice can also be frozen, but its texture may change slightly upon reheating.
• Reheat: Warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave until heated through. For the rice, add a splash of water or chicken broth before reheating to restore its fluffy texture.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice is a delicious, healthy, and easy to make dish that brings the bright flavors of the Mediterranean to your home. The smoky, tender chicken combined with fragrant, zesty rice creates a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

With its bold flavors, simple preparation, and nutritious ingredients, this dish is ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, meal prepping for the week, or simply looking for a new favorite dinner recipe, this Greek-inspired meal is a must-try. Pair it with your favorite Mediterranean sides, and enjoy a flavorful and authentic taste of Greece right from your kitchen!