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Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Rice

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 50 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken Souvlaki:
  • 1½ lbs (700 g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1½ tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp ground cumin (optional for depth)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
  • For the Lemon Rice:
  • 1 cup basmati or long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1½ tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
  • Optional Garnishes:
  • Tzatziki sauce
  • Lemon wedges
  • Fresh cucumber and tomato salad

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Marinate the Chicken : In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  • Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Rice : In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and stir in fresh parsley or dill before serving.
  • Step 3: Cook the Chicken Souvlaki : Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Grill for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Optional: Brush with extra lemon juice while grilling for extra brightness.
  • Step 4: Serve : Spoon lemon rice onto plates or into bowls. Top with chicken souvlaki skewers. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and serve with tzatziki and lemon wedges.