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Homemade One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice. dish photo

One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice.

This One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice is a weeknight delight! Enjoy tender chicken and fluffy rice infused with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Rice:
  • 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
  • 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

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Meat thermometer
  • Cutting Board and Knife

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Chicken - Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, and fresh thyme.
  2. Step 2: Sear the Chicken - In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
  3. Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics - Add butter, shallots, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until shallots are translucent.
  4. Step 4: Add the Grains - Stir in orzo and rice, toasting for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Pour in the Broth - Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Step 6: Return the Chicken - Nestle the chicken back in with lemon slices. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes.
  7. Step 7: Finish with Greens and Cheese - Stir in spinach, olives, feta, basil, and lemon juice.
  8. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy - Serve from the skillet, garnished with fresh herbs or olive oil.

Notes

  • Substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard in winter.
  • Use dried herbs if fresh is unavailable, reducing quantity by half.
  • Feel free to replace chicken with turkey or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.