1. Home
  2. Recipes
  3. Greek Chicken Lemon Rice

Greek Chicken Lemon Rice

Category: Crowd-Pleasing Recipes for Gatherings Big and Small

This quick and easy Greek chicken dish is perfect for weeknights, ready in just 30 minutes. Juicy chicken thighs are seasoned with oregano, paprika, and lemon, then combined with fragrant jasmine rice, grape tomatoes, chickpeas, and fresh spinach—all cooked in a single pot. Topped with a flavorful feta cheese mixture and fresh oregano, this meal bursts with Mediterranean flavor. It's healthy, protein-packed, and customizable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.

Pin It Share Send Print Skip to Recipe
Updated on Mon, 21 Apr 2025 23:17:08 GMT
Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice Pin
Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice | lottirecipes.com

This Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice has transformed my weeknight dinner rotation with its vibrant Mediterranean flavors and impressive simplicity. The combination of tender chicken thighs, zesty lemon rice, and tangy feta creates a one-pot wonder that tastes like it took hours instead of just 30 minutes.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy season when I needed quick but satisfying meals. Now it's requested at least twice a month in our house, especially when we're craving something comforting yet light.

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice Pin
Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice | lottirecipes.com

The freshly squeezed lemon juice transforms this dish completely. I once made it with bottled juice in a pinch and while still good, it lacked that bright, vibrant quality that makes this recipe special. My daughter now helps squeeze the lemons, claiming she can taste which portions she contributed to.

Make-Ahead Options

Ingredient Substitutions

Serving Suggestions

Cultural Context

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but be sure to adjust cooking times as breasts tend to cook faster than thighs.

→ What type of rice works best for this dish?

Jasmine rice is recommended for its aromatic quality, but other long-grain rices can also be used.

→ Can this dish be made dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain flavors and textures.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

Pair this Greek chicken and lemon rice with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Greek Chicken Lemon Rice

Quick 30-minute Greek dish with chicken, lemon rice, tomatoes, spinach, and feta in one pot.

Preparation Time
10 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
Total Time
30 mins

Category: Family Meals

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Cuisine Type: Greek

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary Preferences: Gluten-Free

What You'll Need

→ Chicken

01 1.5 lbs skinless boneless chicken thighs
02 1 teaspoon dried oregano
03 1 teaspoon paprika
04 ¼ teaspoon salt
05 ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
06 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Greek Lemon Rice

07 1 tablespoon olive oil
08 8 oz grape tomatoes, sliced in half
09 5 cloves garlic, minced
10 1 teaspoon dried oregano
11 ¼ teaspoon salt
12 5 oz fresh spinach, chopped
13 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
14 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
15 15 oz canned chickpeas, drained

→ Feta Cheese Mixture

16 6 oz feta cheese, diced into small cubes
17 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
18 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
19 ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
20 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano (optional)
21 Fresh oregano for garnish

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Season chicken thighs with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and red pepper flakes. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes. Add olive oil and chicken thighs. Cook chicken for 5 minutes on one side undisturbed. Flip chicken thighs, reduce heat to low-medium, and cook for another 5 minutes or until fully cooked. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken from skillet.

Step 02

In the same skillet, add half of the grape tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and olive oil. Cook over medium heat for 2 minutes until tomatoes soften and release juices. Add fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Stir in cooked rice, chickpeas, lemon juice, and remaining uncooked grape tomatoes. Reheat on medium heat, stirring to combine. Add an extra tablespoon of olive oil, if desired.

Step 03

In a bowl, combine feta cheese cubes, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, and fresh oregano (if using). Mix to coat the feta cheese in herbs and oil.

Step 04

Mix half of the feta cheese mixture into the skillet with lemon rice. Add sliced cooked chicken to the skillet and reheat on medium heat. Top with the remaining feta cheese mixture. Garnish with fresh oregano and season with salt and black pepper, to taste.

Additional Notes

  1. Ensure the skillet is preheated to prevent sticking and to allow proper browning of the chicken.
  2. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for maximum flavor in the rice and feta cheese mixture.

Tools You'll Need

  • Heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Meat thermometer
  • Mixing bowl

Allergy Information

Check every ingredient for potential allergens. Consult a healthcare professional for concerns.
  • Dairy (feta cheese)
  • Legumes (chickpeas)

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and don’t replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 755
  • Fats: 34 g
  • Carbohydrates: 62 g
  • Proteins: 53 g