Description
A fresh and flavorful Greek-inspired meal featuring juicy lemon-garlic chicken souvlaki skewers served with fluffy, zesty lemon rice. This easy Mediterranean dish is vibrant, satisfying, and perfect for both weeknights and gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Souvlaki:
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak for 30 minutes)
For the Lemon Rice:
1 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine)
2 cups chicken broth (or water)
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Prepare the Lemon Rice: Rinse rice under cold water until clear. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, add rice, and sauté for 2–3 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, lemon zest, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, cover for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and garnish with parsley.
- Cook the Souvlaki: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving space between pieces. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through (165°F/75°C internally).
- Serve: Plate the chicken skewers with a generous serving of lemon rice. Optionally serve with tzatziki, Greek salad, or pita bread.
Notes
Add bell peppers, red onions, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for color and flavor.
Use chicken breast for a leaner option.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
Swap rice with quinoa, couscous, or bulgur for variety.
Sprinkle crumbled feta on top for a tangy finish.
Store leftovers for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of broth or lemon juice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
