Easy Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice

Greek cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and aromas that has captivated palates around the world. Renowned for its emphasis on fresh ingredients, healthy fats, and bold spices, Greek food embodies a culinary philosophy that celebrates the Mediterranean lifestyle. Among its many beloved dishes, Chicken Souvlaki stands out as a quintessential representation of this rich culinary heritage. This dish, characterized by marinated grilled chicken skewers, is not only a staple in Greek households but has also garnered a loyal following internationally.

Discover the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine with this Easy Greek Chicken Souvlaki paired with fluffy Lemon Rice. This delicious recipe highlights marinated grilled chicken skewers, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Made with fresh ingredients like lemon juice and dried oregano, the souvlaki is juicy and flavorful. The accompanying Lemon Rice, cooked in chicken broth, adds zesty brightness to each bite. Enjoy this delightful meal that celebrates the essence of Greek cooking!

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Souvlaki:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

3 tablespoons olive oil

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)

For the Lemon Rice:

1 cup long-grain rice (like basmati or jasmine)

2 cups chicken broth (or water)

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

- Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and coat them in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Prepare the Lemon Rice:

- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

- In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly toasted.

- Pour in the chicken broth (or water), then add the lemon zest and salt. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.

- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

- Remove from heat, stir in the lemon juice, and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Cook the Souvlaki:

- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

- Thread marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

- Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden-brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).

Serve:

- Serve the chicken souvlaki with lemon rice on the side. You can add a dollop of tzatziki, a salad, or pita bread to complete the meal. Enjoy the burst of Greek flavors!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 4 servings