Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

Name: Easy Greek Lemon Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 fresh lemons; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 4 garlic cloves; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine); 2 cups chicken broth; Fresh parsley for garnish; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: March 1, 2025

by mimi

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This amazing greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

I once served this dish at a family gathering where my grandmother declared it “better than her secret recipe.” Who knew that such culinary praise could come from the matriarch herself?

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many guests you have.
Fresh Lemons: Choose bright yellow lemons; they provide the freshest juice and zest for maximum flavor.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste and health benefits.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; crush them instead of chopping to release more flavor.
Dried Oregano: A staple in Greek cooking; it brings earthy notes to balance the bright citrus.
Long-Grain Rice: Opt for basmati or jasmine rice for their aromatic qualities and lovely texture.
Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water elevates the rice’s flavor profile to new heights.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley makes for a colorful garnish and adds freshness to each bite.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, juice from two lemons, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and let them soak up all those zesty flavors for at least 30 minutes.

Prep the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of long-grain rice under cold water until it runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures fluffy rice when cooked.

Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade) and cook until golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side—until juices run clear.

Add Flavorful Rice Mixture: Pour reserved marinade into the skillet along with rinsed rice and 2 cups of chicken broth. Stir well to combine everything.

Simmer Together: Bring to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Cover tightly and allow to simmer for about 15-20 minutes until rice absorbs all liquid.

Garnish and Serve: Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for color and an inviting aroma that will have everyone drooling at first sight.

Now you’ve created an unforgettable dish that merges flavors seamlessly while keeping things simple

Enjoy every forkful of this easy Greek lemon chicken with flavorful rice—it’s not just food; it’s comfort wrapped in Mediterranean sunshine

You Must Know

This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour, then sear it in a hot pan to lock in flavors while cooking the rice simultaneously for optimal timing.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap lemon juice with lime if you’re feeling adventurous, or add some feta cheese on top for an extra flavor punch that will impress everyone.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken and rice in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for enhanced flavor
Avoid overcooking the chicken; it should be juicy, not dry
Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute for better taste

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family; their delighted faces were priceless It became an instant favorite, with requests coming in faster than I could cook

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use other types of chicken?

Absolutely Thighs work well too, offering richer flavor and tenderness.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least one hour to maximize flavor absorption.

What side dishes go well with this recipe?

Greek salad or roasted vegetables complement this easy Greek lemon chicken wonderfully.