Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice – A Bright, Mediterranean Meal Bursting with Flavor

Transport your tastebuds straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with this Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice recipe. Tender, marinated chicken grilled or broiled to perfection, paired with fragrant lemon rice and creamy yogurt—it’s the kind of simple, healthy meal that feels both special and comforting. Fresh herbs, citrus, and bold spices come together in every bite, making it an ideal dish for family dinners, weekend BBQs, or easy meal prep.

🇬🇷 Why You’ll Love This Greek-Inspired Recipe

• Marinated to perfection – Chicken is infused with lemon, oregano, garlic, and a hint of sweetness.
• Easy but impressive – Whether for guests or weeknights, this looks gourmet but is easy to prepare.
• Balanced and fresh – Served with lemony rice, yogurt, herbs, and optional olives for a full Mediterranean experience.
• Customizable cooking method – Broil, grill, or use a stovetop grill pan based on what you have!

🛒 Ingredients Breakdown

For the Greek Chicken Skewers:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
• Juice from ½ large lemon
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1½ tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• ½ tsp kosher salt

For the Lemon Rice:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1¾ cups low-sodium chicken stock (or water)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Juice from ½ large lemon

For Serving:

• Plain yogurt, mixed with a pinch of salt
• Fresh dill, chopped
• Marinated olives (optional but recommended)

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, honey or maple syrup, and kosher salt. Toss everything until evenly coated.

Let the chicken marinate:

• 15–20 minutes at room temperature
• Or up to overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Rice

In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and uncooked rice. Sauté, stirring frequently, until the garlic is golden and the rice begins to smell toasty—about 3–4 minutes.

Add chicken stock, lemon zest, and a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and cook for 15 minutes.

Once cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit, still covered, for 10 minutes to finish steaming. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Season with black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Broiler Method:
Preheat your broiler. Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil and position the rack about 5 inches from the heating element.

Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers. Broil for 12–15 minutes, turning once halfway, until lightly charred and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F/74°C).

Grill Option:
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Grill the skewers for 4–5 minutes per side, until nicely charred and cooked through.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

On a serving plate or bowl, add a generous helping of the lemon rice. Lay a few chicken skewers over the rice. Add:

• A spoonful of salted plain yogurt
• A sprinkle of fresh dill
• A handful of marinated olives, if using

Optional: Garnish with extra lemon zest or a wedge of lemon for extra brightness.

👨‍🍳 Pro Tips

• Use chicken thighs for juicier skewers, but chicken breasts work if you prefer leaner cuts.
• Let rice sit covered after cooking—this helps it become fluffier and less sticky.
• Meal prep: Store components separately and assemble bowls throughout the week.
• Try tzatziki instead of plain yogurt for extra cucumber-garlic tang.

🍋 Variations & Add-Ons

• Add grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or red onion to the skewers.
• Make it low-carb by swapping rice with cauliflower rice or a fresh Greek salad.
• Top with crumbled feta for an extra creamy, salty bite.

📸 Picture-Perfect Plating

These skewers aren’t just tasty—they’re stunning on the plate. The golden rice, charred chicken, creamy yogurt, and fresh herbs create a bright, colorful dish that’s perfect for your Instagram feed or dinner table centerpiece.

📌 Save & Share This Mediterranean Favorite

This Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice recipe is an easy win for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. It’s healthy, hearty, and full of Mediterranean magic. Save it to your recipe rotation—you’ll be coming back to this one again and again.