Introduction

One-Pot Greek Chicken with Lemon Rice is a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken and fragrant, zesty rice in a single pot. This recipe is not just easy to make, but it also delivers a burst of Mediterranean flavors that will transport you straight to sunny Greece. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish promises both satisfaction and simplicity.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) – 4 pieces
– Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
– Onion – 1 medium, diced
– Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
– Rice (long grain or basmati) – 1 cup
– Chicken broth – 2 cups
– Fresh lemon juice – from 1 large lemon
– Lemon zest – from 1 lemon
– Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
– Salt – to taste
– Black pepper – to taste
– Fresh parsley – for garnish

Prep Time

Preparation time for this delectable dish is around 15 minutes. This includes gathering all the ingredients and getting them ready for cooking, ensuring a smooth cooking process.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time takes approximately 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as everything cooks together. In total, from prep to finish, you can expect the entire dish to be ready in about 45 minutes. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it a perfect meal for families or gatherings. Enjoy the delightful experience of cooking and sharing this scrumptious One-Pot Greek Chicken with Lemon Rice!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Marinade the Chicken

In a bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and add it to the pot. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the remaining garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Rice and Stock

Stir in the rice and toast it lightly for about 1-2 minutes. Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Cook

Nestle the seared chicken back into the pot, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Marinating Time

For best results, marinate the chicken longer than 30 minutes, ideally up to 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Note 2: Type of Rice

Short-grain rice is recommended for this recipe as it absorbs flavors well, but long-grain can also be used if preferred.

Note 3: Variations

Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach to the pot for additional flavor and nutrients.

Note 4: Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Cook techniques

Marinating Chicken

Marinate the chicken with lemon juice and seasonings for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor and tenderness.

Searing for Flavor

Sear the chicken until golden brown on the outside to develop a rich, savory flavor before cooking it with the rice.

Deglazing the Pan

After searing the chicken, deglaze the pan with broth. This step captures all the flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom.

One-Pot Cooking

Use a single pot to cook the chicken and rice together. This method simplifies cleanup and allows the rice to absorb the chicken flavors.

Simmering Perfect Rice

Simmer the rice gently to avoid overcooking. Ensure the pot is covered to help steam the rice thoroughly.

Finishing with Fresh Herbs

Just before serving, sprinkle fresh herbs over the dish to add brightness and a refreshing touch.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time, as brown rice generally takes longer to cook.

What can I substitute for lemon juice?

You can use lime juice or vinegar as a tangy alternative.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

While not required, marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Consider adding vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.

Conclusion

The one-pot Greek chicken and lemon rice dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Its combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and zesty lemon makes it a favorite for family dinners or entertaining guests. This recipe not only simplifies the cooking process by using a single pot but also allows for a delightful blend of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Greek Salad

Pair the Greek chicken and lemon rice with a fresh Greek salad, featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, tossed in olive oil and lemon dressing. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken dish.

Grilled Vegetables

Serve a side of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, seasoned with oregano and drizzled with olive oil. The smoky flavors complement the chicken nicely.

Herb-Infused Quinoa

For a nutritious twist, replace rice with herb-infused quinoa. The nuttiness of quinoa adds depth and a healthy grain option to your meal.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp

As an alternative protein option, consider lemon garlic shrimp. Simply sauté shrimp with garlic, lemon, and parsley for a quick and delicious seafood pairing.

Baklava for Dessert

Finish off the meal with a sweet touch by serving baklava. This traditional Greek pastry made of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey syrup contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors of the main dish.