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Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

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

Instructions
 

  • 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!