Try This Zesty Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice Recipe

Succulent marinated chicken souvlaki bursts with Mediterranean flavors that transport you straight to the sunny shores of Greece.

Tender meat infused with garlic, oregano, and olive oil creates a mouthwatering main dish everyone will adore.

The zesty lemon rice perfectly complements the grilled chicken, adding a bright and tangy dimension to the plate.

Each bite promises a delightful blend of herbs and citrus that dance across your palate.

Skewers loaded with juicy chicken pieces bring restaurant-quality Greek cuisine directly to your kitchen.

Prepare to savor an authentic Greek culinary experience that will become a household favorite.

Let this souvlaki recipe become your new go-to meal for weekend gatherings and weeknight dinners.

Tips for Juicy Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice

• Let chicken soak in marinade for at least 6 hours to infuse deep, zesty Mediterranean flavors into every bite.
• Use metal or pre-soaked wooden skewers to prevent burning and ensure even chicken cooking on the grill.
• Always check chicken's internal temperature reaches 160°F for safe and perfectly juicy meat without overcooking.
• Add extra lemon zest or fresh parsley to the lemon rice for a bright, fresh finish that complements the grilled chicken.
• Allow rice to rest after cooking to help grains absorb remaining moisture and achieve a fluffy, tender texture.

Creative Ideas for Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice

• Mediterranean Veggie Skewers: Replace chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or portobello mushrooms marinated in the same Greek-inspired blend for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Mediterranean Souvlaki: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the marinade for a hot kick that transforms the classic recipe into a zesty version.
• Gluten-Free Herb Variation: Use tamari instead of vinegar and ensure all herbs are certified gluten-free for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Rice Alternative: Substitute traditional rice with riced cauliflower, maintaining the lemon and herb profile while reducing carbohydrate content.

Serving Up Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice

• Fresh Mediterranean Platter: Arrange souvlaki skewers over crisp mixed greens with cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
• Warm Pita Companion: Serve souvlaki with soft, warm pita bread and a side of refreshing tzatziki sauce for dipping and added flavor.
• Family-Style Feast: Present skewers on a large wooden board with rice, olives, and grilled vegetables for a shared dining experience that feels like a Greek celebration.
• Zesty Lemon Garnish: Top chicken and rice with fresh chopped parsley and extra lemon wedges to enhance the bright, citrusy flavors of the dish.

Keeping Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice Fresh

• Store leftover chicken souvlaki and rice in separate airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Consume within 3-4 days for best quality and safety.
• Wrap souvlaki skewers and rice individually in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date and contents.
• Place chicken and rice on microwave-safe plate. Sprinkle few drops of water or broth to prevent drying. Heat on 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

• What's the purpose of marinating the chicken?

Marinating helps tenderize the chicken, infuse it with flavor from herbs and acids like lemon juice and vinegar, and keep the meat moist during grilling.

• How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F. The chicken should also have nice grill marks and look slightly browned but remain tender.

• Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake the skewers in the oven at 425°F, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking and browning.

• What herbs work best in this marinade?

Oregano and thyme are traditional Greek herbs that provide authentic flavor. Fresh herbs will give a more vibrant taste compared to dried herbs.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice – Reasons to Try

• Transform ordinary meals into a Mediterranean-inspired feast with minimal effort and maximum flavor, making dinner feel like a special occasion.
• Create perfectly charred, juicy chicken packed with zesty herbs and bright citrus notes that keep protein exciting and nutritious for the whole family.
• Learn professional-level cooking skills through easy marinading and grilling methods that make you look like a culinary expert without complicated steps.
• Prepare a delicious meal that satisfies different taste preferences, works great for casual gatherings, and delivers restaurant-quality results at home.

Everything Needed for Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice

• Chicken: Tender white meat cut into chunks and marinated for maximum flavor and juiciness.

• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice, Vinegar: Create a tangy and bright base that tenderizes and infuses the chicken with Mediterranean flavors.
• Garlic: Adds robust and aromatic depth to the marinade.
• Oregano, Thyme: Classic Greek herbs that provide authentic and earthy undertones.

• Rice: White rice serves as the perfect fluffy base for the souvlaki dish.
• Broth: Adds rich flavor and moisture to the rice during cooking.
• Salt, Lemon Juice: Enhance the rice's taste with brightness and seasoning.

• Non-Stick Spray or Oil: Ensures the chicken does not stick to the grill and helps achieve perfect grill marks.
• Skewers: Used to thread and grill the marinated chicken pieces evenly.

Gear You’ll Want for Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice

• Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for creating those perfect, slightly charred souvlaki marks.
• Skewers: Metal or wooden skewers needed to thread and grill chicken pieces.
• Saucepan with Lid: Crucial for cooking lemon rice evenly and trapping steam.
• Large Bowl or Zip-top Bag: Perfect for marinating chicken and ensuring even coating.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Helps accurately measure marinade and rice ingredients.
• Tongs: Great for safely turning skewers and handling hot chicken on the grill.
• Cutting Board: Needed for cutting chicken into uniform chunks.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for precise chicken cutting.

Cooking Method for Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice

Step 1: Marinate Chicken

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, white vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, and thyme.

Pour over chicken in a sealed container or bag. Refrigerate at least 6 hours for deep flavor.

Step 2: Prepare Skewers

Remove chicken from marinade. Thread onto metal or soaked wooden skewers. Lightly oil grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill Chicken

Preheat grill to medium-high. Cook skewers 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally for even browning.

Aim for golden grill marks and internal temperature of 160°F. Meat should be charred outside, juicy inside.

Step 4: Make Lemon Rice

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Toast rice 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.

Stir in salt and fresh lemon juice, sauté for 1 more minute.

Step 5: Cook Rice

Add chicken broth, bring to boil, then cover and simmer 30 minutes. If liquid remains, cook uncovered 5 more minutes.

Remove from heat and let rest 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice Recipe

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4.5 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Succulent Greek chicken souvlaki with lemon rice delivers Mediterranean flavors straight from Greece’s culinary heartland. Marinated chicken skewers and fragrant rice promise a delightful meal you’ll savor with Mediterranean zest.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long grain rice (or 1.5 cups short grain rice)
• 2 cups hot chicken broth

Liquid and Oil Ingredients:

• 0.25 cup olive oil
• 0.25 cup lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
• 2–3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 0.25 cup lemon juice
• 1.5 teaspoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1.5 teaspoons dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt

Optional Ingredients:

• Optional vegetables: onions, zucchini, tomatoes

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Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken marinade by combining olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, oregano, and thyme in a sealed container. Cut chicken into uniform 1.5-inch chunks and immerse in the marinade. Refrigerate for 6-8 hours to infuse flavors deeply.
2. Remove chicken from marinade and carefully thread pieces onto skewers, ensuring even distribution. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F) and lightly coat grates with non-stick spray.
3. Position marinated chicken skewers on preheated grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, rotating to create beautiful crosshatch grill marks. Ensure internal chicken temperature reaches 160°F for safe consumption.
4. For lemon rice, warm oil in a medium saucepan over moderate heat. Toast rice grains for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Add salt and lemon juice, stirring to coat rice evenly.
5. Pour broth into rice mixture, bringing to a rapid boil. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Remove rice from heat, let stand covered for 5-10 minutes to allow residual steam to complete cooking. Fluff with a fork before serving alongside grilled souvlaki skewers.

Notes

• Double-check meat temperature using a reliable instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked without becoming dry.
• Experiment with wood skewers by soaking them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning and potential charring.
• Consider replacing chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version, adjusting marinade and cooking time accordingly.
• Allow marinated chicken to reach room temperature before grilling to promote more even cooking and better caramelization.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg