Grilled Chicken with Herb Sauce and White Rice
Tender grilled chicken marinated in olive oil, lemon, and herbs — served with fluffy white rice and topped with a vibrant Mediterranean herb sauce made from fresh parsley, garlic, and lemon. It’s simple, healthy, and full of sunshine flavor.
⏱ Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Marinate: 30 minutes (optional, for best flavor)
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 35–50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Herb Sauce
¼ cup fresh parsley (packed)
2 tbsp fresh cilantro or basilmc
1 small garlic clove
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (for creaminess, optional)
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Rice
1 cup white rice (basmati or jasmine)
2 cups water or broth
½ tsp salt
1 tsp olive oil
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken and coat evenly. Let sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).
2. Cook the Rice
Rinse rice until water runs clear.
In a pot, bring water (or broth) to a boil with salt and oil.
Add rice, lower heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until tender.
Fluff with a fork and set aside.
3. Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 75°C / 165°F).
Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. Make the Herb Sauce
Blend parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, yogurt, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Adjust seasoning or consistency with a little water or olive oil.
5. Assemble
Serve grilled chicken slices over white rice.
Drizzle with herb sauce and garnish with extra herbs or lemon wedges.
Tips & Variations
You can substitute mint or dill in the herb sauce for different Mediterranean notes.
Add a side of roasted vegetables or cucumber-tomato salad for a complete meal.
For extra flavor, stir a little lemon zest or butter into the cooked rice.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 480 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 2 g