Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

Table of Contents

Introduction

Bright, comforting, and effortless, this Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice turns weeknight dinner into something a little celebratory. Tender chicken breasts sear golden in a skillet while lemon and oregano build an aromatic, sun-kissed sauce that soaks into fluffy long-grain rice. It’s a one-skillet solution that looks impressive on the table but is simple to make. If you enjoy easy family meals that feel special, try pairing techniques from a cozy slow-cooker favorite like 4-Ingredient Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings for another fuss-free dinner idea.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This dish hits the sweet spot between fast and comforting. With pantry-friendly spices and a quick sear, you get dinner on the table in under an hour with minimal hands-on time. The rice cooks right in the skillet, catching all the savory juices from the chicken so every forkful is flavorful. It’s versatile enough for family dinners or a casual gathering and pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables. For a lighter, low-carb take on a similar concept, explore a bold alternative like Chicken Enchilada Bowls with Cauliflower Rice to inspire more meal variations.

Flavor and Texture

Lemon zest and juice brighten the dish without overpowering it, while dried oregano offers that classic Mediterranean note. The outer sear on the chicken gives a satisfying caramelized bite, and the rice absorbs the broth and lemon for a silky, fragrant finish. Garlic and onion powders round out the savory base so the flavors feel balanced and approachable. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of color and a fresh herb finish that lifts the whole plate.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
3. Rub both sides of each chicken breast with olive oil.
4. Season the chicken breasts with dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
5. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
7. Cook the chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
9. Add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon.
10. Stir in the lemon juice and bring the broth to a simmer.
11. Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to ensure the rice is evenly distributed.
12. Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet on top of the rice.
13. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.
14. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
15. Remove the skillet from the oven and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
16. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and rice before serving.
17. Serve the chicken and lemon rice warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Tips for Best Results

Use an oven-safe skillet so you can move seamlessly from stovetop to oven without extra dishes. Browning the chicken well at the start creates flavor that the rice will pick up when deglazing the pan with broth. Measure the rice and broth carefully for consistent texture; too much liquid can make the rice mushy. If you prefer a bolder herb profile, swap dried oregano for a teaspoon of dried thyme or a pinch of dried rosemary. Letting the dish rest covered after baking gives the rice a chance to finish steaming and keeps the chicken juicy.

Storage and Make Ahead

Cool leftovers to room temperature before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to revive the rice, or microwave covered for shorter times. To make ahead, prepare the rice and broth, store separately, then sear the chicken and assemble just before baking to keep textures bright. This recipe also freezes well: freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to two months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Final Thought

This Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a reliable, bright weeknight winner that feels much more elevated than the effort suggests. With a handful of simple ingredients and one skillet, you’ll create a meal that’s both comforting and photogenic perfect for sharing on Pinterest or serving straight from the pan. Keep the flavors fresh with parsley and lemon, and enjoy a dinner that becomes an instant favorite.

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