Imagine a dish that encapsulates the sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean—all in one skillet. If you’re looking for a comforting yet vibrant meal that will make your kitchen smell divine, look no further than One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice. This dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, zesty lemon, and wholesome grains, making it a delightful option for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

The best part? Cleanup is a breeze since everything is made in one pan! With an array of spices and fresh ingredients, this recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This dish is a culinary celebration of Greek flavors, combining the heartiness of rice with the brightness of lemon and the savory goodness of chicken. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a vibrant flavor that dances on your palate.
Quick and Easy: With just one skillet, this dish comes together in 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Nutritious: Packed with protein and vitamins from the spinach and herbs, it’s a balanced meal that satisfies.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

What’s in the Bowl

The beauty of One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice lies in its wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

Equipment at a Glance

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

Skillet: A large, deep skillet or Dutch oven works best for even cooking and easy stirring.
Spatula: For stirring and serving your delicious meal.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping your veggies and herbs.

Mastering One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice.: How-To

Ready to whip up this delicious meal? Follow these simple steps to master One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts or thighs with dried oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the salted butter. Once melted, toss in the sliced shallots and chopped garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the shallots become translucent.

Step 3: Add Grains and Liquids

Stir in the dry rice and orzo, mixing well to coat in the buttery mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all the grains are submerged. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken and Lemon

Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, and place the lemon slices on top. Cover the skillet and allow it to simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Stir in Greens and Finish

Once the rice is cooked, add the chopped spinach and crushed green olives. Stir to combine and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Finish with crumbled feta cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a squeeze of lemon juice for that extra zing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your delicious One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice and serve warm. Enjoy the burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite!

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re looking for a low-carb or keto-friendly version of this dish, consider these substitutions:

Replace the rice and orzo with cauliflower rice for a lighter, grain-free option.
Omit the orzo entirely and increase the amount of spinach for added volume.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor and higher fat content.
Substitute crumbled feta with a cream cheese for a different texture and flavor.

Cook’s Notes

Feel free to customize the herbs based on your preference. Dill or rosemary can be wonderful additions.
If you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, add extra lemon juice or zest before serving.
For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated without losing its flavor.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This dish can be frozen for later enjoyment. Here’s how:

Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture.

The Takeaway

One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice is more than just a dinner recipe; it’s a delightful experience that brings the essence of Greek cuisine right into your home. With its minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in this flavorful meal that’s both comforting and vibrant. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this one skillet wonder is sure to impress!

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