Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice is a beloved Greek-inspired dish that bursts with fresh, zesty, and savory flavors. The tender, marinated chicken skewers are grilled or pan-seared to perfection and paired with fragrant lemon rice that’s light yet full of flavor.

Each bite brings the perfect harmony of citrus brightness, smoky char, and herby goodness. This meal brings the warmth of the Mediterranean straight to your table — easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Whether served with tzatziki, pita, or a crisp Greek salad, this dish captures the essence of Greek comfort food in every forkful.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers so much flavor with such simple ingredients. The chicken is juicy, aromatic, and infused with a garlicky, lemon-herb marinade that makes it incredibly tender. The lemon rice complements it beautifully with a refreshing tang that ties everything together. It’s wholesome, light, and satisfying — the kind of dish that feels both comforting and healthy.

I also love how flexible it is: you can grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken, and it’s just as delicious. Every time I make it, the kitchen fills with the aroma of garlic, herbs, and lemon — pure happiness!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s fresh, flavorful, and foolproof. It’s perfect for anyone craving something healthy without compromising on taste. The combination of char-grilled chicken, zesty rice, and cooling tzatziki makes for a balanced meal full of texture and brightness.

Plus, it’s great for meal prep — it reheats well and even tastes better the next day. Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner or simply want a nourishing family meal, Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice offers restaurant-quality flavor right from your kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Marination Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (recommended)
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour (plus marination)
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~480 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean

Ingredients

For the Chicken Souvlaki

• 1 ½ lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 tsp lemon zest
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Lemon Rice

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt, to taste

Optional for Serving

• Tzatziki sauce
• Warm pita bread
• Fresh salad or roasted vegetables
• Lemon wedges

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.
2. Skewer the chicken and grill (or bake) until golden and fully cooked.
3. Prepare the lemon rice by toasting the rice, adding broth, and infusing it with lemon and garlic.
4. Serve the juicy chicken souvlaki over fragrant lemon rice with tzatziki and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 4: Grill or Cook

• Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high. Cook skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
• Stovetop: Heat a grill pan over medium heat, lightly oil it, and cook for the same time.
• Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 5: Make the Lemon Rice

In a saucepan, heat olive oil or butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add rice and toast for 1–2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is fluffy. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Place a generous scoop of lemon rice on each plate. Top with skewered chicken or remove from skewers and arrange neatly. Garnish with parsley, serve with tzatziki, and enjoy!

How to Serve

Serve Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice warm, alongside a dollop of tzatziki sauce and fresh pita bread. A Greek salad with cucumber, tomato, red onion, olives, and feta pairs perfectly. Add a squeeze of lemon over the chicken right before serving for extra brightness.

Recipe Tips

• Marinate longer for maximum flavor — even overnight if possible.
• Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy, not dry.
• For fluffier rice, let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking and fluff with a fork.
• Use chicken thighs if you prefer extra tenderness.
• Add butter to the rice for a richer flavor.

Variations

• Beef or Lamb Souvlaki: Use the same marinade with cubed beef or lamb for a heartier option.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with halloumi or tofu cubes.
• Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Garlic-Lemon Rice: Add roasted garlic or more zest for extra punch.
• Grain Swap: Use quinoa or bulgur instead of rice for a lighter twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken separately from the rice for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to refresh the rice.

Special Equipment Needed

• Grill or grill pan (or baking sheet if using oven)
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan for rice
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Tongs

FAQs

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.

Q2: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 18–20 minutes or until golden and fully cooked.

Q3: Can I make the rice ahead of time?
Yes, lemon rice reheats beautifully. Add a splash of broth when reheating to keep it fluffy.

Q4: What’s the best side dish for this meal?
Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple cucumber-yogurt salad are all perfect.

Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free broth and serve without pita bread.

Conclusion

Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice is a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that transports you straight to the Greek Isles with every bite. The juicy, lemony chicken paired with fragrant rice makes a refreshing yet comforting dinner option. It’s simple to prepare, wholesome, and versatile enough for any occasion — from a family meal to a dinner party. With bright citrus notes, savory herbs, and tender meat, this dish is pure Mediterranean magic on a plate. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself craving its sunny, satisfying flavors again and again.