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
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