Description
Savory Greek chicken and lemon rice brings Mediterranean sunshine to your dinner table in just half an hour. Quick, zesty flavors meld perfectly in this single-pot wonder that promises comfort and excitement for hungry palates.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds (700 grams) chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Fats and Oils:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Rice Components:
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2.5 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Aromatics and Herbs:
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare a flavor-packed marinade by blending oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then thoroughly coat the chicken thighs, ensuring even distribution of the aromatic seasoning.
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat, creating a sizzling surface for browning. Carefully place chicken thighs skin-side down, allowing them to develop a golden, crispy exterior for approximately 5 minutes per side, then transfer to a waiting plate.
- Utilize the residual pan drippings to sauté diced onions until translucent and softened, releasing their sweet aromatics. Introduce minced garlic and briefly toast to enhance its robust flavor profile.
- Introduce uncooked rice to the skillet, gently stirring to coat each grain with the fragrant oil and aromatics. Pour in chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, vibrant lemon zest, and additional oregano, creating a zesty liquid base.
- Gently nestle the seared chicken thighs into the rice mixture, ensuring they are partially submerged. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to a gentle simmer, and allow the dish to cook undisturbed for 20 minutes, permitting the rice to absorb the flavorful liquid and the chicken to reach perfect doneness.
- After cooking, remove from heat and let the dish rest for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and settle. Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley or dill across the surface, adding a bright, herbaceous garnish before serving.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is completely dry before seasoning to achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in flavor.
- Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum juiciness and richer taste compared to boneless alternatives.
- Toast rice briefly in oil before adding liquid to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent clumping.
- Opt for fresh lemon zest and juice to brighten the dish with vibrant, citrusy notes that complement the herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 130mg