Are you ready to take your weeknight dinner routine to a whole new level? Say hello to One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice, a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. This one-pot wonder is not only easy to prepare, but it also boasts a delightful harmony of lemon, herbs, and savory chicken that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.

The Upside of One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice.

The beauty of One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice lies in its simplicity and convenience. Cooking everything in one skillet means fewer dishes and a quicker cleanup, which is always a win in my book. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of flavorful ingredients creates a satisfying meal that feels gourmet without the fuss. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making it perfect for lunch the next day!

What We’re Using

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 pound boneless chicken breasts or thighs
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 tablespoons salted butter
1 lemon, sliced
1/2 cup dry orzo
1 cup dry rice
2 shallots, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, chopped
3-4 cups low sodium chicken broth
2 cups chopped spinach
1/2 cup pitted green olives, crushed
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Before You Start: Equipment

Large Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet works best for even cooking.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and preventing scratches in your skillet.
Meat Thermometer: To ensure chicken is cooked through.
Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping vegetables and herbs.

Build One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice. Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, and fresh thyme. Make sure to coat them evenly for the best flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the butter, shallots, and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the shallots are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Grains

Stir in the orzo and rice, allowing them to toast slightly in the buttery mixture for about 1-2 minutes. This step enhances their flavors and gives the final dish a nutty aroma.

Step 5: Pour in the Broth

Add the low sodium chicken broth to the skillet, scraping any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Return the Chicken

Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, along with the lemon slices. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice and orzo are tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 7: Finish with Greens and Cheese

Once the rice and chicken are cooked, stir in the chopped spinach, crushed olives, crumbled feta, fresh basil, and lemon juice. Mix everything gently to combine, letting the spinach wilt and the cheese soften slightly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice directly from the skillet, garnished with additional fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Enjoy the burst of Mediterranean flavors with every bite!

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

Spinach: Substitute with kale or Swiss chard in the winter months.
Fresh Herbs: Use dried herbs if fresh is unavailable, but reduce the quantity by half.
Green Olives: Kalamata olives can be used for a different flavor profile.
Chicken: Feel free to use turkey or even chickpeas as a vegetarian option.

Troubles You Can Avoid

Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken; this can lead to steaming instead of browning.
Check the doneness of the chicken with a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking.
Keep an eye on the liquid level while cooking; if it gets too dry, add a splash more broth.
Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

How to Store & Reheat

One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

The Last Word

One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Greek cuisine with its bright flavors and hearty ingredients. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, but it also shines when served at gatherings with friends and family. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients will make your table feel festive, and the delightful aroma will have everyone gathered around, eager to dig in.

Incorporating this recipe into your rotation will not only simplify your dinner prep but also introduce a burst of Mediterranean flair to your meals. The combination of tender chicken, zesty lemon, and a medley of herbs creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and refreshing. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen with One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice!