We are calling all home cooks! This Greek Lemon Chicken with Yellow Rice recipe is a breeze but bursting with flavor. Tender chicken gets a lemony herb marinade while the rice cooks fluffy and yellow. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both impressive and easy.
Prep Time: 40 minutes (including marinating)
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 560 per serving
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 25g
Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts, 4 pieces
- Lemon, 2 (zest and juice)
- Olive oil, 3 tablespoons
- Garlic, three cloves (minced)
- Oregano, one tablespoon (fresh or dried)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Butter, 2 tablespoons
- Long grain rice, 1 cup
- Chicken broth, 2 cups
- Turmeric, 1 teaspoon
- Parsley, for garnish
How to Cooking
1. First things first, create a vibrant marinade in a bowl. Combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, zest (remember the zest!), minced garlic for a spicy kick, fragrant oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper to awaken all the flavors. Add your chicken breasts, ensuring they get a good coating, and let them soak up all that goodness for at least 30 minutes.
2. Now, heat your skillet over medium heat. Once hot, it’s time to sear the chicken to golden perfection. Cook them for 6-7 minutes per side, watching for that beautiful brown crust that signifies juicy chicken inside. Once cooked, take them out and set them aside for a moment.
3. Don’t waste those delicious pan drippings! Add a pat of butter and your favorite rice in the same skillet. Let the rice toast slightly, then introduce the star of the show – turmeric! Stir until the rice is evenly coated, releasing its warm, earthy aroma. Now, pour in some chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 18 minutes, letting the rice absorb all the flavorful broth and turn a glorious golden yellow.
4. Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for! Slice that juicy chicken and arrange it majestically on a bed of fluffy yellow rice. For a finishing touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley and add some extra lemon slices for a bright, citrusy pop if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
1. Swap dried oregano for fresh whenever you can. It adds a more intense, authentic depth of flavor that will take your dish to the next level.
2. Take the marinating step! Marinating your chicken overnight in the fridge infuses it with flavor for a guaranteed juicy and delicious result.
3. Rinse your rice thoroughly under cold water until the running water becomes clear. It removes excess starch that can make rice sticky. You’ll be rewarded with perfectly separate, fluffy grains.
4. Want to add a bright, lemony zing to your rice? Stir in some freshly grated lemon zest while the rice cooks. It’s a simple trick that elevates the whole dish.
5. Complement your creation with a refreshing Greek salad or some steamed vegetables on the side for a well-rounded and flavorful meal.
Greek Lemon Chicken with Yellow Rice Recipe FAQs
Question: Can I swap chicken breasts for thighs?
Answer: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will deliver a more decadent, juicy bite. Just remember to adjust the cooking time since thighs take a bit longer.
Question: What if I don’t have turmeric?
Answer: Although it comes with a higher price tag, Saffron can be a luxurious substitute for that vibrant yellow hue and a touch of floral flair.
Question: Can I make this ahead for a busy week?
Answer: Yes! Both the chicken and rice are reheating champions. Just store them separately in the fridge and reheat them in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready.
Question: Gluten-free concerns?
Answer: Great news! This dish is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check for certified gluten-free labels on your ingredients, especially the broth.
Question: The perfect pairing on the side?
Answer: A refreshing Greek salad or roasted veggies would be fantastic companions to your flavorful chicken and rice.
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