Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice

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Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice: A Flavorful Mediterranean Delight

Greek cuisine is known for its bright flavors, fresh herbs, and simple yet delicious dishes. One of the most beloved Greek street foods is chicken souvlaki, a dish featuring marinated grilled chicken skewers served with a variety of accompaniments. Pair it with lemon rice, and you have a meal that’s full of zesty, savory, and herbaceous goodness. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or summer grilling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bursting with Flavor – The marinade infuses the chicken with a perfect balance of citrus, garlic, and Mediterranean spices.
  • Healthy and Nutritious – High in protein and packed with wholesome ingredients.
  • Perfect for Grilling – A great way to enjoy an outdoor cookout with minimal effort.
  • Easy to Make – Simple ingredients come together in a few easy steps.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Souvlaki:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Wooden or metal skewers
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional, for grilling)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Lemon Rice:

  • 1 cup long-grain rice (Basmati or Jasmine)
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the cubed chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Rice

  1. Heat the olive oil or butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast slightly.
  4. Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  6. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken Souvlaki

  1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, adding cherry tomatoes if desired.
  3. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
  4. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Plate the lemon rice and top with grilled chicken souvlaki skewers.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
  3. Optionally, pair with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or a Greek salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Chicken Souvlaki

  • Marinate Longer for More Flavor – If time allows, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours.
  • Use Metal Skewers for Easy Grilling – If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Remove from the grill once the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • Enhance the Rice – Add a bit of extra lemon zest or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Customization Ideas

  • Vegetarian Option – Swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms.
  • Make it Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
  • Low-Carb Version – Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
  • Extra Toppings – Try crumbled feta cheese or Kalamata olives for more Mediterranean flavor.

Final Thoughts

Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or preparing a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and experience the fresh, vibrant flavors of Greece!

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