GREEK CHICKEN AND RICE

Greek Chicken and Rice is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. This recipe features tender chicken marinated in a blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs, paired with aromatic rice that’s cooked with savory onions and spices. Topped with olives and feta cheese, this dish offers a delightful mix of tangy and savory flavors, complemented by a hint of freshness from parsley. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering, Greek Chicken and Rice is a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Rice:
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade and sear in the skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Prepare the Rice: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the rice and stir to coat it in the oil.
4. Cook the Rice: Add the chicken broth and lemon zest to the rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Combine and Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the sliced olives. Serve the cooked chicken on top of the rice, and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.

Enjoy this flavorful Greek Chicken and Rice dish with a side salad or your favorite Mediterranean accompaniments!