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One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice.

This One Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice is bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors and easy to make in just one pan!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Keyword: Chicken, Easy, Lemon, One-Skillet, Quick, Rice
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 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

Instructions

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

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Notes

  • Customize herbs with dill or rosemary for varied flavors.
  • Add extra lemon juice or zest for a more pronounced lemon taste.
  • Increase cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes to spice it up.
  • This dish can be frozen; cool completely before freezing and reheat with a splash of broth.