Mediterranean Greek-Style Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice
Tender marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection, paired with fragrant lemon-infused rice and a cooling tzatziki sauce. This dish combines zesty, herby flavors typical of Greek cuisine — a perfect balance of savory, fresh, and citrusy notes.
⏱ Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into cube
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp Greek yogurt
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp ground cumin (optional)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Wooden or metal skewers
For the Lemon Rice:
1 cup basmati or long-grain rice
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Salt, to taste
2 tbsp chopped parsley or dill (for garnish)
Optional Tzatziki Sauce:
½ cup Greek yogurt
¼ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
1 small clove garlic, minced
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp chopped dill or mint
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken pieces and mix until coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
2. Prepare the Lemon Rice
1. Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.
2. In a saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
3. Add the rice and sauté for 1–2 minutes until slightly translucent.
4. Pour in broth or water, add salt, cover, and simmer on low for 15 minutes.
5. Turn off the heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
6. Fluff with a fork, then stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh parsley or dill.
3. Grill the Chicken Skewers
1. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
2. Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
3. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 75°C / 165°F).
4. Rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
4. Make the Tzatziki (Optional but Recommended)
1. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Chill until ready to serve.
5. Serve
Plate the fluffy lemon rice, top with grilled chicken skewers, and serve with a dollop of tzatziki and lemon wedges.
Notes & Tips
Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Add bell peppers, onions, or zucchini chunks to the skewers for extra color and nutrition.
For an extra flavor boost, drizzle a bit of olive oil and sprinkle feta over the finished plate.
frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I bake the chicken skewers instead of grilling?
A: Yes! Bake at 220°C (425°F) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes — marinate the chicken a day before, and cook rice fresh before serving.
Q: What can I serve with this?
A: Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread pair beautifully.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 480 kcal
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g