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.
Notes
- 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.