Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Easy Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice


  • Author: Sophia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Description

This dish combines juicy, marinated chicken skewers with fragrant lemon-infused rice for a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s fresh, zesty, and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a backyard BBQ!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Skewers:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Lemon Rice:

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1️⃣ In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

2️⃣ Add chicken chunks to the bowl, ensuring all pieces are well coated with the marinade.
3️⃣ Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.


Step 3: Cook the Lemon Rice

4️⃣ Rinse the rice: Rinse basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
5️⃣ Cook: In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and butter to a boil. Stir in the rice, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
6️⃣ Add flavor: Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.


Step 4: Prepare the Chicken Skewers

7️⃣ Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.


Step 5: Grill the Skewers

8️⃣ Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
9️⃣ Cook the chicken skewers for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).


Step 6: Serve

🔟 Plate the lemon rice and top with the grilled chicken skewers. Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Marination Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours if time allows.
  • Rice Consistency: Ensure the rice absorbs all the liquid before adding lemon juice to avoid a watery texture.
  • Charred Perfection: Use medium-high heat to achieve those signature grill marks without overcooking the chicken.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4–6