Greek cuisine is known for its bold flavors and hearty dishes that leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. One of the most popular dishes that truly embodies the essence of Greek cooking is the Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice. This mouthwatering recipe features juicy chicken marinated in a lemon and herb mixture, and cooked to perfection with fluffy rice. Whether you are a fan of Greek cuisine or just looking for a delicious and healthy meal, this recipe is perfect for you!

Ingredients needed for Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice Recipe

The key to making the perfect Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice is using fresh and high-quality ingredients. Here is a list of ingredients you will need:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

When it comes to cooking the chicken, it is important to sear it on both sides until it is golden brown. This will help to lock in the juices and keep the chicken moist and tender. Once the chicken is seared, it can be transferred to a baking dish and baked in the oven until it is fully cooked.

For the rice, it is important to rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove any excess starch. This will help to prevent the rice from becoming too sticky or clumpy. Once the rice is cooked, it can be fluffed with a fork and mixed with the lemon juice and zest, garlic, and oregano to give it a delicious flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

Step-by-step instructions to make Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice

This recipe may look complex, but it is actually quite simple to make. Follow these steps to make the perfect Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
2. Place the chicken in a large bowl or a sealable plastic bag, and pour the marinade over it. Cover the bowl or seal the bag, and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
3. Once the chicken has marinated, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, and place it in an oven-safe baking dish. Arrange it in a single layer, and pour the remaining marinade over it.
5. Add the rice to the baking dish, and pour the chicken broth over it.
6. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil, and bake for 45 minutes.
7. After 45 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender and fluffy.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

For a healthier option, you can use brown rice instead of white rice. Brown rice is a whole grain that is high in fiber and nutrients, making it a great choice for a balanced meal. Simply adjust the cooking time to 50-55 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the brown rice is tender.

Tips and tricks to make the perfect Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice

To make the perfect Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:

• Use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to the lemon juice and zest.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but remember that the longer you marinate it, the more flavorful it will be.
• Make sure to cover the baking dish tightly with foil so that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the liquid.
• Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is cooked through before serving.
• Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Another tip to keep in mind is to use a high-quality olive oil when making this dish. The olive oil will add a rich flavor to the chicken and rice, and it will also help to keep the chicken moist and tender.

If you want to add some extra flavor to the dish, consider adding some fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to the marinade. These herbs will infuse the chicken with a delicious aroma and taste that will take your dish to the next level.

Health benefits of lemon chicken and rice

Not only is Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice delicious, but it is also packed with health benefits. Let’s take a look at some of them:

• Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscle and maintain healthy bones and tissues.
• Lemon is high in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and protects against infections and diseases.
• Olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Rice is an excellent source of carbohydrates, which provide energy to the body and help with digestion.

How to marinate chicken for Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice

The marinade is a crucial component of this recipe, as it infuses the chicken with flavor and moisture. Here is how to marinate chicken for Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
2. Place the chicken in a large bowl or a sealable plastic bag, and pour the marinade over it. Cover the bowl or seal the bag, and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.

Variations of Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice

While the classic version of Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice is delicious on its own, there are many variations you can try to switch things up. Here are a few:

• Add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.
• Use different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Substitute the chicken for shrimp, fish, or tofu for a vegetarian or pescatarian version.
• Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier option.

What sides to serve with Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice

While Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice can be a meal on its own, there are many sides that can complement and balance the flavors. Here are a few ideas:

• Greek salad with feta cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives.
• Hummus and pita bread for dipping.
• Roasted vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and carrots.
• Tzatziki sauce for a creamy and tangy dip.

Quick and easy Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice recipe for busy weeknights

If you are looking for a quick and easy version of Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice that you can make on a busy weeknight, try this recipe:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a small bowl, mix together the lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
• Place 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs in a large bowl or a sealable plastic bag, and pour the marinade over them. Cover the bowl or seal the bag, and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
• Remove the chicken from the marinade, and place it in an oven-safe baking dish. Pour the remaining marinade over it.
• Add 1 cup of long grain white rice to the baking dish, and pour 2 cups of chicken broth over it.
• Cover the baking dish tightly with foil, and bake for 45 minutes.
• After 45 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender and fluffy.
• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

How to store leftover Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice

If you have leftovers of this delicious dish, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake it in the oven until heated through.

Greek inspired drinks to pair with your meal

When it comes to pairing drinks with Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice, there are many options that can complement and enhance the flavors. Here are a few Greek-inspired drinks to try:

• Ouzo: an anise-flavored aperitif that is traditionally served with meze and seafood.
• Tsipouro: a grape-based spirit that is similar to grappa and can be served chilled or at room temperature.
• Santorini white wine: a crisp and refreshing wine that pairs well with seafood and light dishes.
• Chilled frappé coffee: a popular Greek coffee preparation that is made with instant coffee, water, and ice, and served chilled.

The history behind the dish: the origins of Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice

While the origins of Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice are unclear, it is believed that the dish has been a staple of Greek cuisine for centuries. The use of lemon and olive oil in cooking dates back to ancient Greece, where they were prized for their health properties and flavor. Today, Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice is a beloved dish that is enjoyed by many around the world.

A vegetarian version of the recipe: substituting chicken for a meat alternative

If you are a vegetarian or looking for a meatless version of this recipe, you can substitute the chicken for a meat alternative such as tofu, seitan, or tempeh. Here is how:

1. Press the tofu to remove excess liquid, and cut it into cubes or strips.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
3. Place the tofu in a large bowl or a sealable plastic bag, and pour the marinade over it. Cover the bowl or seal the bag, and marinate the tofu in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
4. Once the tofu has marinated, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Remove the tofu from the marinade, and place it in an oven-safe baking dish. Arrange it in a single layer, and pour the remaining marinade over it.
6. Add the rice to the baking dish, and pour the vegetable broth over it.
7. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil, and bake for 45 minutes.
8. After 45 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fluffy.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

How to modify the recipe for a gluten-free diet

If you follow a gluten-free diet, you may be wondering how to modify this recipe to suit your needs. The good news is that this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use a gluten-free chicken broth and rice. Here are some brands of rice that are certified gluten-free:

• Lundberg Family Farms
• Lotus Foods
• Thrive Market
• Bob’s Red Mill

Best brands of rice to use for this recipe

When it comes to making the perfect Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice, choosing the right type of rice is crucial. You want a rice that is fluffy, moist, and absorbs all of the flavors of the dish. Here are some brands of rice that are ideal for this recipe:

• Basmati rice
• Jasmine rice
• Long grain white rice
• Arborio rice (for a creamier version of the dish)

There you have it, a comprehensive guide to making the perfect Greek Lemon Chicken with Rice! Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy!