These comforting Chicken and Lemon Rice bowls bring together the Mediterranean’s zesty flavors in one harmonious dish that your whole family will adore. With juicy chicken thighs marinated in fresh lemon and herbs, paired with fragrant lemon rice, you’ll experience a delightful explosion of taste, all while saving time with a simple, one-pot recipe that’s easy to whip up on any busy night.
Picture this: the sun is setting, and the aroma of lemon and garlic fills your kitchen. You’re sitting down to a warm meal that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings a comforting feeling of togetherness. This One Pot Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is everything you need for an uncomplicated yet delicious family-friendly dinner.
One Pot Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice
A comforting and flavorful one-pot dish combining juicy marinated chicken thighs with zesty lemon rice, perfect for a family-friendly dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 5 chicken thighs, skin on, bone in (about 1 kg / 2 lb)
- 1 – 2 lemons, zest + 4 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil, separated
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 cup (180g) long grain rice, uncooked
- 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) chicken broth/stock
- 3/4 cup (185 ml) water
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 3/4 tsp salt
- Black pepper to taste
- Finely chopped parsley or oregano (optional)
- Fresh lemon zest (for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine the chicken and marinade ingredients—lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and 1 tablespoon olive oil—in a ziplock bag. Marinate for at least 20 minutes, or overnight for best results.
- In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the marinated chicken, skin side down, and sear until golden brown on both sides.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, then pour in the chicken broth and water. Season with oregano, salt, and a generous pinch of black pepper.
- Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley or oregano, and lemon zest before serving.
Notes
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Use fresh lemon zest for the best taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Dish
This recipe is all about convenience and flavor; it combines protein, grains, and citrus in one pot, which means less time washing dishes. With every bite, you’ll savor the juiciness of marinated chicken and the zesty kick of lemon on perfectly fluffy rice. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it’s a wholesome meal you can feel great about serving your loved ones.
How to Make One Pot Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice
Ingredients
- 5 chicken thighs, skin on, bone in (about 1 kg / 2 lb)
- 1 – 2 lemons, use the zest + 4 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil, separated
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 cup (180g) long grain rice, uncooked
- 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) chicken broth/stock
- 3/4 cup (185 ml) water
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 3/4 tsp salt
- Black pepper
- Finely chopped parsley or oregano (optional)
- Fresh lemon zest (highly recommended)
Directions
Combine the chicken and marinade ingredients , lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and 1 tablespoon olive oil , in a ziplock bag. Let this luscious mixture marinate for at least 20 minutes, but for best results, toss it in the refrigerator overnight.
In a large pot, add the remaining olive oil and heat over medium-high. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
Next, add the marinated chicken, skin side down, and sear until golden brown on both sides. This step infuses the chicken with flavor while creating a lovely crust.
Stir in the uncooked rice, then pour in the chicken broth and water. Season with oregano, salt, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Give everything a good stir.
Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
When done, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley or oregano, if desired, along with zest from a lemon for an extra pop of flavor.
Serving Suggestions for a Cozy Family Meal
Serve this delicious dish family-style in the pot, letting everyone help themselves. Pair it with a simple Greek salad or some warm pita bread for a complete Mediterranean experience. It’s great for gatherings, making the meal feel like a celebration!
How to Store Leftovers Properly
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water and warm on low heat, stirring occasionally.
Tips for a Perfect One Pot Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice
- Marinate Longer: For deeper flavors, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon zest and juice will brighten the dish more than jarred options.
- Don’t Rush the Searing: Achieve a lovely color on the chicken by not overcrowding the pan.
Variations to Try
Feel free to play around with the recipe by adding seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach near the end of the cooking time for added nutrition and flavor. You can also swap out the chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but remember that brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time—adjust the broth and simmer accordingly.
2. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the cooking step, and then when you are ready to eat, just follow the cooking instructions.
3. What other sides would go well with this meal?
Consider a creamy tzatziki sauce, roasted vegetables, or even a simple lemon vinaigrette to drizzle over a side salad.
Cooking this One Pot Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. Enjoy making memories around the table, and savor every delightful bite!