There’s something magical about the simplicity of Greek cuisine. It’s all about letting fresh ingredients shine, and this recipe for Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice is the perfect example of that philosophy. Picture this: tender chicken infused with bright, zesty flavors, grilled to perfection, and paired with fluffy, citrusy rice. Whether you’re dreaming of a seaside dinner on a warm Mediterranean night or just looking for a quick and satisfying meal for the family, this dish delivers all the comfort and elegance of Greece right to your table.

For me, this recipe evokes summer evenings spent with friends, laughing under the glow of string lights, while the scent of grilled chicken and fresh herbs wafts through the air. These chicken skewers are more than just food—they’re an experience, easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve at a gathering. Pair them with a crisp cucumber salad or warm pita bread, and you’ve got yourself a feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs gives the chicken an irresistible Mediterranean flair.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Impact: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry or fridge.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will fall for these juicy, charred skewers paired with the vibrant lemon rice.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time, and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Versatile: These skewers are just as good served hot off the grill as they are cold, straight from the fridge the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken Skewers:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Lemon Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice

Step-By-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by prepping the chicken. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth marinade. Toss in the cubed chicken, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice
While the chicken marinates, get started on the lemon rice. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear—this helps remove excess starch and keeps the rice fluffy. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice, stirring for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted. Pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and a pinch of salt. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15-20 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for even cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly grease the grates with a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for perfectly juicy chicken.

Step 5: Plate and Serve
Serve the hot chicken skewers over a bed of lemon rice. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and freshness. Pair with a side of tzatziki sauce, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips:

• Marinate Ahead: If you know you’ll be short on time, marinate the chicken the night before. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more flavorful it will be.
• Make It Your Own: Add your favorite veggies, like bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions, to the skewers for extra color and nutrition.
• Rice Perfection: If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a teaspoon of butter to the rice after it’s cooked.
• Grill Indoors: Don’t have an outdoor grill? Use a grill pan or even a regular skillet for cooking the skewers on the stovetop.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes for marinating)
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner, Main Course
• Method: Grilling, Stove-Top
• Cuisine: Greek
• Diet: High-Protein

Notes:

• For a lighter option, swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Want a bit of a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade.
• Don’t skip the lemon zest—it adds a bright, tangy aroma that brings the whole dish together.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 450
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 550mg

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I bake the chicken skewers instead of grilling them?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F and arrange the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat the chicken skewers in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. For the rice, add a splash of water before reheating in the microwave to keep it moist.

Can I make this dish dairy-free or gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free as written. Just double-check your chicken broth to ensure it’s gluten-free if needed.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other Greek-inspired dishes:

• Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
• Greek Chickpea Salad

Conclusion:

This recipe for Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice combines vibrant flavors and simple techniques to create a meal that feels like a celebration. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that will leave you and your loved ones feeling satisfied and inspired. So fire up that grill (or skillet!) and get ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean. You’ve got this!

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