Welcome to a flavorful journey to the Mediterranean! These Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice are bound to be a hit, whether you’re preparing them for a cozy weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. Imagine tender, marinated chicken with vibrant flavors served over fragrant lemon rice—your taste buds are in for a treat! This dish combines simplicity with authentic flavors, making it a top choice for meal prep or a quick, delicious dinner. Let’s get started!
Introduction
Greek cuisine is celebrated for its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, and these Greek Chicken Skewers are no exception. This dish offers the perfect balance of juicy marinated chicken infused with lemon, oregano, and garlic, paired with fluffy lemon rice for a complete meal. Originating from Greece’s iconic street food, these skewers capture the essence of Greek cooking: straightforward yet bursting with flavor. Not only is it a comforting choice, but it’s also an easy recipe that brings a piece of the Mediterranean into your home, ideal for fans of quick and nutritious meals.
Ingredients for Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice
Greek Chicken Skewers
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- Juice from 1/2 large lemon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Lemon Rice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken stock (or water)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice from 1/2 large lemon
To Serve
- Plain yogurt + a pinch of salt
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Marinated olives (optional)
Optional substitutions: If you prefer a different protein, you can swap the chicken with shrimp or tofu. To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that the chicken stock is certified gluten-free.
How to Make Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning under high heat.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, honey or maple syrup, and kosher salt. Toss everything until the chicken is well coated. Let the chicken marinate at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or if you have extra time, allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours for enhanced flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Rice
In a medium pot with a tight-fitting lid, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and rice, toasting it for 3-4 minutes until it’s fragrant. Pour in the chicken stock, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and leave covered for another 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and add a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra citrus kick.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Skewers
Preheat the broiler and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Place the baking sheet about 5 inches from the broiler and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway, until the chicken is cooked through and the edges are slightly charred.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve the chicken skewers over a generous portion of lemon rice. Add a dollop of plain yogurt with a pinch of salt, sprinkle with fresh dill, and add marinated olives if desired for an authentic Greek touch.
Helpful Tips for Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice
- Marination Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible. A longer marination results in more tender and flavorful meat.
- Rice Texture: Toasting the rice before adding liquid enhances the texture and flavor, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Lemon Zest & Juice: Use fresh lemon zest and juice to get the most vibrant citrus flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice, as it can have a slightly bitter taste.
Cooking Tips for the Best Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice
- Use a Broiler or Grill: The broiler works great to give these skewers a charred finish, but if you have a grill, it will add an extra smoky flavor.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When threading the chicken, leave some space between pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Cooking Alternatives: If you don’t have a broiler, an air fryer can also be used to cook the skewers to crispy perfection in about 8-10 minutes at 400°F.
Serving Suggestions for Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh Greek salad, grilled vegetables, or a side of pita bread. For a full Mediterranean feast, serve with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon. These Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice also make a fantastic meal prep option, as the flavors develop even more over time.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is packed with healthy protein from chicken and beneficial antioxidants from garlic and lemon. The rice provides a satisfying base while keeping the meal light. Using lean chicken thighs reduces fat without sacrificing flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin C: 20% of Daily Value
Storage and Leftovers for Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice
To store any leftovers, place the chicken and rice in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a microwave or a skillet on low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out. Add a splash of chicken stock or water to the rice to bring back its fluffy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice
Q1: Can I make these chicken skewers in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to cook.
Q2: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A: Yes, chicken breast works well too. Just be cautious not to overcook as breasts can dry out more quickly.
Q3: Can I freeze the cooked chicken skewers?
A: Yes, cooked chicken skewers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the oven or a skillet until warmed through.
Q4: Is there a substitute for lemon zest?
A: Lime zest is a close substitute if you’re out of lemons, but it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
Related Recipes for Greek Chicken Lovers:
For more Greek-inspired recipes, you might enjoy:
- Greek Lentil Soup Recipe – Healthy, Vegan, and Delicious
- Tzatziki Chicken Salad – Fresh, Healthy, and Delicious
Conclusion
Thank you for joining us on this Greek culinary adventure! We hope you’ll love these Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice as much as we do. This recipe is perfect for introducing Mediterranean flavors to your kitchen, and it’s so versatile for different occasions. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Feel free to experiment and share your favorite twists on this dish. Happy cooking!
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Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice – Easy & Flavorful
Description
Welcome to a flavorful journey to the Mediterranean! These Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice are bound to be a hit, whether you’re preparing them for a cozy weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. Imagine tender, marinated chicken with vibrant flavors served over fragrant lemon rice—your taste buds are in for a treat! This dish combines simplicity with authentic flavors, making it a top choice for meal prep or a quick, delicious dinner. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Greek Chicken Skewers
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- Juice from 1/2 large lemon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Lemon Rice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken stock (or water)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice from 1/2 large lemon
To Serve
- Plain yogurt + a pinch of salt
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Marinated olives (optional)
Optional substitutions: If you prefer a different protein, you can swap the chicken with shrimp or tofu. To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that the chicken stock is certified gluten-free.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning under high heat.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, honey or maple syrup, and kosher salt. Toss everything until the chicken is well coated. Let the chicken marinate at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or if you have extra time, allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours for enhanced flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Rice
In a medium pot with a tight-fitting lid, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and rice, toasting it for 3-4 minutes until it’s fragrant. Pour in the chicken stock, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and leave covered for another 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and add a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra citrus kick.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Skewers
Preheat the broiler and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Place the baking sheet about 5 inches from the broiler and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway, until the chicken is cooked through and the edges are slightly charred.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve the chicken skewers over a generous portion of lemon rice. Add a dollop of plain yogurt with a pinch of salt, sprinkle with fresh dill, and add marinated olives if desired for an authentic Greek touch.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Marination Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible. A longer marination results in more tender and flavorful meat.
- Rice Texture: Toasting the rice before adding liquid enhances the texture and flavor, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Lemon Zest & Juice: Use fresh lemon zest and juice to get the most vibrant citrus flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice, as it can have a slightly bitter taste.
