The Tangy Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe

Succulent greek chicken skewers dance with vibrant Mediterranean flavors that promise a culinary adventure.

Marinated chunks of poultry burst with oregano and garlic hints.

Mediterranean traditions shine through every tender bite of seasoned meat.

Zesty lemon and fragrant herbs create an irresistible combination that transports you straight to a sunny Greek island.

Perfectly charred edges bring smoky complexity to each morsel.

Paired with fluffy lemon rice, this dish offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes.

Flavor Twists for Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice

• Vegetarian Greek Skewers: Replace chicken with firm tofu or halloumi cheese, marinated in the same Greek-inspired mixture for a plant-based alternative.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Rice Option: Swap traditional rice with riced cauliflower, maintaining the lemon and herb flavors while reducing carbohydrate content.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, particularly checking stock and seasonings for potential gluten contamination.
• Spicy Mediterranean Version: Add red pepper flakes to the marinade and include harissa paste for an extra kick of heat and complexity in the chicken skewers.

Serving Suggestions for Greek Chicken Skewers

• Zesty Mediterranean Plate: Arrange skewers atop lemon rice with a generous dollop of herbed yogurt, creating a colorful and vibrant main course that screams Greek summer.
• Fresh Herb Explosion: Sprinkle chopped fresh dill, parsley, and mint over the chicken and rice to add bright, aromatic layers that enhance the lemony flavors.
• Olive Lover's Dream: Scatter marinated Kalamata olives around the plate for a salty, tangy counterpoint that complements the grilled chicken's smoky notes.
• Creamy Tzatziki Companion: Serve with a side of homemade tzatziki sauce, providing a cool, refreshing contrast to the warm, charred chicken skewers.

How to Store Greek Chicken Skewers and Rice

• Transfer leftover chicken skewers and lemon rice to airtight containers, separating them to maintain texture. Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Wrap cooled chicken skewers individually in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Freeze lemon rice in separate containers for maximum 2 months. Label with date.
• Warm chicken skewers in oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying. Sprinkle a few drops of water to retain moisture and restore tenderness.

FAQs

• What is the purpose of marinating the chicken?

Marinating helps tenderize the meat, infuse flavors, and add moisture to prevent dryness during cooking. The combination of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs creates a delicious, authentic Greek taste.

• Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works perfectly. Just ensure you cut it into uniform pieces and watch cooking time closely to prevent overcooking, as breast meat can dry out faster than thighs.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. The chicken should have no pink centers and appear white throughout when cut.

Why Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Are Popular

• Blast Mediterranean Taste: Packed with zesty lemon, fragrant oregano, and sweet paprika, these skewers transport your taste buds straight to the Greek islands with every single bite.
• Quick and Versatile Cooking: Whether you're broiling in the oven or firing up the grill, this recipe offers flexible cooking methods that suit any kitchen setup or outdoor cooking adventure.
• Meal Prep Champion: Marinate the chicken ahead of time and enjoy a stress-free dinner that comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings with friends and family.

Ingredients for Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice

• Chicken: Tender meat pieces perfect for marinating and creating flavorful skewers.
• Rice: Fluffy base for the dish that absorbs lemon and stock flavors.

• Lemon Juice, Olive Oil: Provide bright, tangy flavor and help tenderize the chicken.
• Garlic, Dried Oregano, Sweet Paprika: Classic Greek seasonings that add depth and aromatic warmth.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Adds subtle sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken edges.

• Chicken Stock, Lemon Zest: Enhance the rice's flavor and create a fragrant base.
• Kosher Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the dish's flavors.

• Plain Yogurt, Fresh Dill, Marinated Olives: Traditional Greek additions that complement the chicken skewers.

How to Prepare Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice

Step 1: Prepare Wooden Skewers

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Marinade

• Chicken pieces
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Minced garlic
• Dried oregano
• Sweet paprika
• Honey
• Kosher salt

Toss the ingredients until chicken is completely coated with the marinade.

Step 3: Let Flavors Develop

Allow chicken to marinate at room temperature for 15-20 minutes or refrigerate up to overnight for deeper flavor infusion.

Step 4: Craft Zesty Lemon Rice

Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium-low heat.

Step 5: Toast Rice Base

Add thinly sliced garlic and rice, toasting for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.

Step 6: Liquid and Seasoning

• Chicken stock
• Lemon zest
• Salt

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to lowest setting, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.

Step 7: Finish Rice

Turn off heat, let sit covered for 10 minutes.

Fluff with a fork and stir in lemon juice.

Season with black pepper.

Step 8: Prepare Broiling Station

Preheat broiler and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Position oven rack 5 inches from heating element.

Step 9: Skewer Chicken

Thread marinated chicken pieces onto prepared skewers.

Step 10: Broil to Perfection

Broil skewers for 12-15 minutes, turning once, until chicken is cooked through with lightly charred edges.

Step 11: Alternative Cooking Method

Option to grill or use a grill pan for similar results.

Step 12: Plate and Garnish

Serve chicken skewers over lemon rice.

Step 13: Final Touch

Add a dollop of plain yogurt seasoned with salt and fresh dill.

Optionally include marinated olives for extra flavor.

Tips for Juicy Greek Chicken Skewers and Lemon Rice

• Soak wooden skewers in water to stop them from burning and ensure even cooking.
• Let chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for deeper, more intense taste.
• Toast rice and garlic before adding liquid to enhance nutty flavors and prevent clumping.
• Position oven rack close to heating element and turn skewers once to achieve beautiful, slightly charred edges.
• Top with yogurt, dill, and olives to add bright, tangy complementary flavors that elevate the entire dish.

Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice Recipe

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4.5 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean sunshine dances through Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice, bringing zesty herbs and tender marinated chicken to your plate. Herb-infused meat paired with citrus-kissed rice creates a perfect summer meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless skinless chicken thighs

Marinade and Seasoning:

• 1/2 large lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Rice:

• 2 garlic cloves (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken stock or water
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Accompaniments:

• 1/2 large lemon juice
• Plain yogurt
• Pinch of salt
• Fresh dill
• Marinated olives (optional)

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Instructions

1. Submerge wooden skewers in water for a minimum of 15 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
2. Blend chicken with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, honey, and salt in a spacious mixing container, ensuring thorough coating.
3. Allow chicken to marinate at ambient temperature for 15-20 minutes or refrigerate for up to 12 hours for enhanced flavor absorption.
4. Warm olive oil in a medium pot with a secure lid over medium-low heat.
5. Introduce thinly sliced garlic and rice, toasting for 3-4 minutes until aromatic and slightly golden.
6. Pour chicken stock, incorporate lemon zest and salt. Increase heat to boiling, then reduce to lowest setting, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
7. Remove from heat, maintain lid for additional 10 minutes. Gently separate rice grains with a fork and mix in lemon juice. Season with freshly ground black pepper.
8. Position oven rack approximately 5 inches from broiler element and line baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
9. Carefully thread marinated chicken pieces onto prepared skewers, ensuring even distribution.
10. Broil at high temperature for 12-15 minutes, rotating once midway, until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F and develops light charred edges.
11. Alternative cooking methods include grilling over direct flame or using a ridged grill pan for similar caramelization.
12. Plate skewers atop fragrant lemon rice.
13. Complement with a dollop of seasoned yogurt, sprinkle of fresh dill, and optional marinated olives for authentic Greek presentation.

Notes

• Prevent wooden skewers from burning by soaking them thoroughly in water before threading chicken.
• Maximize flavor by marinating chicken longer, ideally overnight, allowing herbs and citrus to penetrate deeply.
• Adjust heat carefully when broiling to achieve perfectly charred edges without drying out chicken.
• Create gluten-free version by using tamari instead of traditional soy-based marinades and confirming stock ingredients.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Broiling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 220 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg