Why Make This Recipe
Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs & Rice is a delicious and easy dish to prepare. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs make the chicken taste fresh and uplifting. This recipe not only offers great taste but also nourishes, providing a complete meal with protein and carbs. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs & Rice
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs
- Lemon
- Garlic
- Herbs (like oregano or thyme)
- Rice
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for garnish)
Directions
- Marinate chicken thighs in lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sear the marinated chicken thighs in a skillet until golden brown on both sides.
- In a separate pot, cook the rice according to package instructions.
- In a baking dish, combine the seared chicken thighs and cooked rice, adding any remaining marinade.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is flavorful.
- Serve with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs & Rice
Serve the chicken thighs on a plate with a generous portion of rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges for an extra pop of flavor. This dish pairs well with a fresh side salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs & Rice
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish will last for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, put portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs & Rice
- Marinate the chicken thighs for longer than 30 minutes for even more flavor.
- Use bone-in thigh pieces for juicier chicken.
- Adjust the amount of lemon according to your taste preference.
- You can add veggies to the rice during cooking for a more colorful dish.
Variation
For a Mediterranean twist, add olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the rice before baking. You can also substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and is easy to pack for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
You can use dried herbs instead. Just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.