Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice is a delicious and healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal. Juicy, marinated chicken is grilled to perfection and served over fragrant, citrus-infused rice. This easy dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or summer grilling. With simple, fresh ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a meal you’ll love making over and over again.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Bold Mediterranean Flavors: A perfect blend of garlic, oregano, lemon, and olive oil.
- Healthy & Protein-Packed: Lean chicken and nutritious rice make this a balanced meal.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple marination and quick grilling.
- Versatile Dish: Great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or outdoor grilling.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Skewers:
- Boneless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Cut into bite-sized pieces
- Olive Oil – For a rich, authentic Mediterranean flavor
- Lemon Juice & Zest – Adds brightness and freshness
- Garlic, Minced – Enhances depth of flavor
- Dried Oregano – Classic Greek seasoning
- Salt & Black Pepper – To taste
- Red Onion & Bell Peppers – Optional, for added texture and flavor
- Wooden or Metal Skewers – For grilling
For the Lemon Rice:
- Long-Grain White or Basmati Rice – Light and fluffy texture
- Chicken Broth – Enhances the flavor
- Lemon Juice & Zest – Adds a citrusy aroma
- Garlic Powder – A hint of warmth
- Olive Oil or Butter – For richness
- Salt & Pepper – To taste
- Fresh Parsley – For garnish
Equipment Used
- Mixing bowls
- Grill or grill pan
- Skewers
- Medium saucepan
- Knife & cutting board
- Tongs
Directions & Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, coat well, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Rice
In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add rice and garlic powder, stirring for 1-2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with red onion and bell pepper pieces if using.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the grilled chicken skewers over lemon rice with a side of tzatziki or a fresh Greek salad. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Each serving (1 skewer with rice) contains:
- Calories: 460
- Protein: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
A wholesome, protein-rich meal perfect for a balanced diet.
Prep Time & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap butter for olive oil in the rice.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
- Vegetable Additions: Try zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms on skewers.
- Extra Spices: Add cumin or smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and cook when ready.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and hold up well to grilling.
What other sides pair well with this dish?
A fresh cucumber salad, hummus, or grilled pita bread complements the flavors beautifully.
Pro Tips by Elisa
- Marinate Overnight for the most flavorful chicken.
- Soak Wooden Skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Use a Meat Thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the Rice Rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance texture.
Serving Suggestions
- With Tzatziki: A cool, creamy yogurt-based sauce pairs beautifully.
- With Greek Salad: Fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese add freshness.
- With Warm Pita Bread: Great for scooping up the flavorful rice and chicken.
- With Roasted Vegetables: A colorful and healthy side option.
Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Grill or grill pan
- Skewers
- Medium saucepan
- Knife & cutting board
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Skewers:
- Boneless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Cut into bite-sized pieces
- Olive Oil – For a rich authentic Mediterranean flavor
- Lemon Juice & Zest – Adds brightness and freshness
- Garlic Minced – Enhances depth of flavor
- Dried Oregano – Classic Greek seasoning
- Salt & Black Pepper – To taste
- Red Onion & Bell Peppers – Optional for added texture and flavor
- Wooden or Metal Skewers – For grilling
- For the Lemon Rice:
- Long-Grain White or Basmati Rice – Light and fluffy texture
- Chicken Broth – Enhances the flavor
- Lemon Juice & Zest – Adds a citrusy aroma
- Garlic Powder – A hint of warmth
- Olive Oil or Butter – For richness
- Salt & Pepper – To taste
- Fresh Parsley – For garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, coat well, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).
- Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Rice
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add rice and garlic powder, stirring for 1-2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with red onion and bell pepper pieces if using.
- Step 4: Grill the Chicken
- Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the grilled chicken skewers over lemon rice with a side of tzatziki or a fresh Greek salad. Enjoy!