A Fresh Mediterranean Rice Dish with Zesty Lemon and Fragrant Herbs
Greek Lemon Chicken Pilaf brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, aromatic garlic and onions, and the refreshing flavour of lemon. Olive oil provides a rich base, while oregano and thyme add a distinctive herbal aroma that complements the savoury chicken and gently seasoned rice.
The rice cooks in chicken stock with fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, allowing it to absorb the balanced flavours of the broth, herbs and citrus. Finished with fresh parsley and lemon, this comforting dish offers a bright, refreshing taste and makes a satisfying meal inspired by Greek-style home cooking.
Ingredients
750 g basmati rice (4 cups), soaked for 20 minutes
1 kg chicken thighs
3 tbsp olive oil
2 onions
4 garlic cloves
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp thyme
½ tsp black pepper
Salt, to taste
5½ cups chicken stock
Juice of 2 lemons
Zest of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Method
Prepare the Rice: Wash the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 20 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
Brown the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large cooking pot. Add the chicken thighs and brown them for approximately 8 minutes. Add the chopped onions and garlic, allowing them to cook with the chicken.
Add the Herbs and Lemon: Stir in the oregano, thyme, black pepper and lemon zest. Add the drained rice and mix gently so the grains become coated with the aromatic oil and seasonings.
Add the Stock and Lemon Juice: Pour in the chicken stock and fresh lemon juice. Return the chicken to the pot if it was removed during preparation, ensuring it is arranged with the rice and liquid.
Cook Until Tender: Cover the pot and cook over low heat for approximately 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Avoid stirring excessively while the rice cooks.
Rest and Garnish: Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice gently and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon before serving.
Serve
Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Pilaf with Greek salad, tzatziki, grilled vegetables and pita bread. The cool, creamy yogurt dip and crisp salad complement the warm, herb-seasoned rice, while extra lemon wedges provide a refreshing citrus finish.