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Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice

One-pan Greek dinner featuring herb-marinated chicken and fluffy basmati rice cooked together with lemon, oregano, and thyme.
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into halves or pounded
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice for marinade
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil for marinade
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic for marinade
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano for marinade
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme for marinade
  • salt to taste, for marinade
  • 1.5 cups long-grain basmati rice rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic for rice
  • 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice for rice
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano for rice
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme for rice
  • 1/2 cup green peas optional
  • 3 teaspoons olive oil for cooking
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • lemon slices and fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • mixing bowl
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, crushed black pepper, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly and set aside to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. While the chicken marinates, rinse the basmati rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water 2-3 times until the water runs clear. Transfer to a bowl, cover with fresh water, and soak for 30 minutes. Drain thoroughly before using.
  3. Heat 3 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken doesn't need to be fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
  4. In the same skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release the browned bits. Add the tablespoon of lemon juice, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir and bring to a simmer.
  6. Add the drained rice and green peas to the skillet, stirring to distribute evenly. Bring the liquid to a full boil over medium-high heat.
  7. Once boiling, nestle the seared chicken pieces on top of the rice along with any accumulated juices. Cover with a tight-fitting lid, reduce heat to low, and cook undisturbed for 15-20 minutes until the water is fully absorbed.
  8. Remove from heat and keep covered for 5-10 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve garnished with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist. Substitutions: Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for more flavor and juiciness. Brown rice can be used but requires 2 3/4 cups liquid and 35-40 minutes cooking time. Add fresh spinach with the garlic for extra vegetables. Make-Ahead: The chicken can be marinated up to 2 hours ahead in the refrigerator. Pro Tip: Do not lift the lid while the rice is cooking. The trapped steam is essential for even cooking.