These tasty Greek chicken skewers are marinated with lemon and herbs, making them juicy and flavorful. They’re perfectly paired with fluffy lemon rice for a bright meal!
Whenever I make these, I can’t help but feel like I’m on a sunny Greek island. The zesty lemon rice is my secret weapon for taking the dish to a whole new level! 🌞
It’s easy to prep the skewers ahead of time, and grilling them gives the best smoky flavor. Trust me, a fresh salad on the side makes it a complete dinner you’ll love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Use skinless, boneless chicken for skewers. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs work well too. They stay juicier on the grill.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor. If you need a lighter option, try avocado oil or sunflower oil as a substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings the best taste! If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be a quick substitute, but keep it to about 1 teaspoon to avoid overpowering the dish.
Dried Oregano: This herb is key to getting that Greek flavor. If you don’t have it, Italian seasoning can replace it, but use a bit less, as it’s more potent.
Lemon: Fresh lemons are best for juice and zest. If you’re out, lemon juice in a bottle can work, but the flavor won’t be as bright.
Rice: Long-grain rice like basmati is preferred, but jasmine or even quinoa can be used for a twist. For a lower-carb version, try cauliflower rice.
How Do You Get the Chicken Skewers Perfectly Cooked on the Grill?
Cooking chicken skewers can be tricky, but here are some helpful steps to ensure they turn out juicy and flavorful.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes; 2 hours is even better for deep flavor.
- If using wooden skewers, soaking them prevents burning. Just 30 minutes in water is enough.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. A hot surface means great grill marks and quick cooking.
- Thread the chicken tightly but not too close together for even cooking. Turn the skewers every few minutes for uniform grilling.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes beforehand)
For the Lemon Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain rice (like basmati)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp butter
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Tzatziki sauce (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 20 minutes of preparation and about 30 minutes of cooking, plus marinating time. In total, expect about 1 hour including the time to let the chicken soak up the flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss them until they are fully coated in the marinade. Once done, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, you can let it marinate for up to 2 hours!
2. Prepare the Lemon Rice:
Take a medium saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the rice and toast it for about 2 minutes, stirring often to avoid burning. Next, pour in the chicken broth (or water), along with the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is soft and all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork when it’s done!
3. Assemble and Cook Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, now is the time to thread the marinated chicken onto them, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally until the chicken is nicely grilled and cooked through. Check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C) for safety.
4. Serve:
To serve, place the lemon rice on a large platter and arrange the grilled chicken skewers on top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and enjoy with optional tzatziki sauce and lemon wedges on the side. Your Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice are ready to be digged into!
Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. You want to make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth in the Lemon Rice?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or just water. For added flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of salt to enhance the taste when using water.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Skewers and Lemon Rice?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chicken can be reheated on a grill or in the oven to maintain its tenderness, while the rice can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Can I Make the Marinade and Rice Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. For the rice, it’s best when made fresh, but you can cook it a few hours ahead and keep it warm on the stove, covered, until serving.
