Ingredients
– 2 lbs chicken breast cut into chunks provides lean protein and cooks quickly with a tender texture
– 1 cup long-grain rice the base of the dish, it absorbs the lemon flavor well and maintains a fluffy consistency
– 1 large lemon juiced and zested delivers the characteristic bright citrus flavor essential to the recipe
– 3 cloves garlic minced adds aromatic depth and enhances overall taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil helps marinate the chicken and cooks the rice with a rich mouthfeel
– 1 tbsp dried oregano a classic Greek herb providing earthy and slightly bitter notes
– Salt and pepper to taste balances and elevates all flavors
– 200 grams long grain rice (white, plain long-grain, basmati, or jasmine) soaked, washed, and drained
– 60 ml extra virgin olive oil
– 1 onion finely diced red preferred; white, brown, or green onions can substitute
– 2 garlic cloves finely diced can increase for more flavor
– 500 ml chicken stock (vegetable stock or broth for vegetarian or vegan)
– 2 tablespoons fresh dill finely chopped or 1 teaspoon dried dill
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest zest of 1 lemon
– Juice of 1 lemon add more for tanginess
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped
Instructions
1- Soak the rice in water for 20-30 minutes, then rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch for fluffier results.
2- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until it smells good, about 1-2 minutes.
3- Add the soaked rice to the pan and stir for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast it, which helps enhance the flavors.
4- Pour in the chicken stock, fresh lemon juice, and zest, then bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5- While the rice cooks, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until it’s fully done and has a nice char.
6- Once the rice is ready, remove it from the heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes, then fluff it with a fork.
7- Finally, serve the grilled chicken on top of the lemon rice, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra freshness.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
💧 Soaking and rinsing rice removes starch, preventing stickiness and shortening cooking time.
🌾 Use long-grain rice for fluffiness; avoid arborio, sushi, or brown rice without adjusting cooking time.
🍋 Resting rice covered with a towel absorbs moisture, separates grains, and prevents mushiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Soaking time: 20-30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 363 kcal
- Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Protein: 7 g