Go Back
Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice Recipe

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice Recipe

This Greek-inspired one-pot dish combines juicy chicken with lemony rice, infused with Mediterranean flavors of oregano and garlic. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, offering rich flavors with minimal cleanup!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 5
Course: One-pot, baked
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken and Marinade:
  • 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
  • For the Rice:
  • 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
  • For Garnish:
  • Freshly chopped parsley or oregano optional
  • Fresh lemon zest optional

Method
 

  1. Combine chicken, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and salt in a ziplock bag or bowl. Marinate for at least 20 minutes, preferably overnight.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
  3. Sear chicken thighs in a large skillet with 1/2 tbsp olive oil until golden brown on both sides. Set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté diced onion until translucent. Add rice and stir to coat with the oil.
  5. Pour in chicken stock and water, then add oregano and salt. Bring to a simmer and cook for 30 seconds.
  6. Place seared chicken on top of the rice, cover, and bake in the oven for 35 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for another 10 minutes, until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
  7. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, garnished with parsley, oregano, and fresh lemon zest.

Notes

 

  • For quicker cooking, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs and reduce baking time to 25-30 minutes.
  • Brown rice requires longer cooking time (about 1 hour 15 minutes). Add extra liquid if needed.
  • You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for more color and nutrition.