There’s a certain allure in the simplicity of a one-pan meal that draws me in every time. When life gets busy, I often crave something delicious yet easy to prepare, and that’s where this One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet shines. The moment I marinate juicy chicken thighs in zesty lemon juice, the fragrance itself transports me to sun-drenched Mediterranean shores.
In just one pan, you can enjoy tender, flavorful chicken nestled atop fluffy rice and vibrant spinach, effortlessly creating a colorful, hearty dish. This recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also kind to your wallet, clocking in at a budget-friendly $10 meal. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a versatile option for everyone at the table. Join me as we whip up a comforting meal that brings the flavors of Greece right into your kitchen!
Why is One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet perfect?
Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs create a delightful Mediterranean flavor that will impress everyone at dinner.
Versatile: Customize with different greens or proteins to suit your tastes—kale, pork, or shrimp can all shine in this dish.
Budget-Friendly: At just $10 for a hearty meal, you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavors without the hefty price tag.
Crowd-Pleasing: With its colorful presentation and satisfying textures, this skillet dish will bring joy to your family and guests alike!
For an extra crunch, consider serving it with a refreshing Greek salad on the side.
One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet Ingredients
• Perfect components for your dish!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs – Provides protein and moisture; you can use chicken breasts but may need to adjust cooking time.
- Olive Oil – Used for marinating and cooking; adds richness. Consider avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds tanginess to the marinade; yellow mustard can substitute but will change the flavor.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Aromatics
- Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; garlic powder can be a quick substitute at 1/4 tsp per clove.
- Yellow Onion – Brings sweetness and aroma when sautéed; shallots work for a milder flavor.
For the Rice Base
- Dry Long-Grain White Rice – Acts as a base that absorbs all the flavors; brown rice can be used but will take longer to cook.
- Chicken Broth or Stock – Infuses moisture and flavor; swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For the Brightness
- Lemon Juice & Zest – Provides brightness and acidity critical for the flavor profile; essential ingredients not to be substituted.
- Dried Oregano & Thyme – Herbs that enhance the dish’s flavor; fresh can replace dried at a ratio of 3:1.
For the Greens
- Baby Spinach – Offers nutrients and color; kale may be a substitute but should be chopped small.
How to Make One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet
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Whisk Together: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken thighs in this zesty marinade and let them sit for at least 15 minutes; this step enhances flavor.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat a large, high-sided pan over medium heat. Add oil to coat the bottom, then sear the marinated chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add chopped onions and season with salt. Sauté for about 3 minutes, then add minced garlic and rice. Toast the mixture for an additional 3 minutes until fragrant.
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Deglaze and Cook: Pour in the chicken broth, using a spatula to scrape up any delicious brown bits. Bring the mixture to a boil; then reduce the heat, nestle the chicken back into the pan, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
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Finish with Spinach: Carefully remove the chicken from the pan, and stir in the baby spinach until wilted. Adjust seasoning to taste, return the chicken to the skillet, combine well, and serve warm.
Optional: Garnish with fresh lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement this Mediterranean-inspired meal.
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Greek Salad: A crunchy mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives brings a refreshing contrast and vibrant colors to your plate. Toss it all together with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice for a bright finish.
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Tzatziki Sauce: Creamy and cool, this yogurt-based sauce pairs wonderfully for dipping or drizzling, enhancing each bite with its garlic and cucumber notes.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds natural sweetness. The caramelized edges pair beautifully with the savory chicken and rice.
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Warm Pita Bread: Soft and pillowy, warm pita is perfect for scooping up the chicken and rice, adding a hearty element to your meal.
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Lemon Wedges: A simple yet effective touch, serving lemon wedges enhances the dish’s bright flavors, allowing guests to customize their seasoning.
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Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous makes for an excellent alternative side, soaking up all those delicious chicken juices and marrying beautifully with the herbs in the dish.
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Sparkling Water with Mint: As a refreshing drink choice, mint-infused sparkling water adds a crisp touch, perfectly complementing the lemony flavors of the meal.
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Baklava: For dessert, consider serving baklava. The rich, nutty, and honey-soaked sweetness is a luxurious way to round off your dining experience.
One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dish—let your creativity bring even more flavor to the table!
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Leafy Greens: Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different texture and nutrition boost. These greens will add a lovely vibrant color.
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Protein Switch: Use pork or shrimp instead of chicken for a delectable twist. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
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Rice Variety: Try brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, but remember to increase your cooking time!
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Herb Swap: Substitute dried oregano and thyme with fresh herbs to uplift the flavors; remember to use triple the amount for max flavor impact!
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Citrusy Kick: Add orange juice and zest along with lemon for a bright, citrusy twist that enhances the dish’s freshness.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh chili to the marinade for a touch of heat that elevates the flavor profile.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in a handful of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds before serving for a satisfying crunch that complements the tenderness of chicken.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of coconut yogurt or dairy-free sour cream before serving for a luxurious creaminess that balances the zest of the dish.
Storage Tips for One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This meal can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it perfect for meal prep.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s fully cooled before freezing to maintain texture.
Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep the rice moist. Enjoy the fresh flavors of the One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet!
Leftovers: Consider using leftovers in a wrap with fresh veggies for a quick lunch or dinner option!
Make Ahead Options
These One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet meal prep tips are perfect for busy home cooks! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the lemon and herb mixture up to 24 hours in advance, which really enhances the flavor. Additionally, the rice can be toasted and set aside for up to 3 days in an airtight container to save time during the cooking process. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the onions and garlic, combine with the toasted rice and broth, and nestle the marinated chicken back in the pan. Finish by adding the spinach until wilted, and you’ll have a wholesome, delicious meal with minimal effort that tastes just as delightful as when freshly prepared!
Expert Tips for One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet
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Marinate Well: Ensure the chicken is marinated properly for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor infusion. The longer, the better!
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Watch Your Rice: Cooking times may vary based on rice type; monitor closely to avoid undercooked or overcooked rice.
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Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the final dish before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. A touch of salt can elevate the flavors.
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Add Moisture: If the dish appears dry during cooking, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth to maintain the right texture.
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Customize Easily: Feel free to swap in different greens or proteins based on availability or preference to make the One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet your own!
One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
I recommend using chicken thighs because they provide moisture and flavor, but chicken breasts can work too. If using breasts, just keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent them from drying out!
How should I store leftover One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet?
Leftovers should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish is delightful served warm or cold, making it convenient for meal prep or quick lunches.
Can I freeze One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a tightly sealed container. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheating on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth will help revive its lovely texture.
What should I do if the rice is undercooked?
If you find that the rice is undercooked after the initial simmer, don’t worry! Simply add a bit more chicken broth, cover the pan, and let it simmer on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will help the rice absorb the liquid and cook through while keeping the chicken moist.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for many diets. However, if you’re preparing it for someone with allergies, make sure to check the labels on the chicken broth and Dijon mustard, as some brands may contain gluten or dairy.
Can I customize the greens in this dish?
Yes! Feel free to substitute baby spinach with other greens like kale or Swiss chard. Just chop them smaller and add them at the end until they’re wilted, keeping those vibrant, colorful flavors intact.
One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet for Busy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss in the chicken thighs and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat a large, high-sided pan over medium heat. Add oil and sear the marinated chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onions seasoned with salt for about 3 minutes, then add garlic and rice, toasting the mixture for an additional 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, nestle the chicken back into the pan, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove the chicken, stir in baby spinach until wilted, then return chicken to skillet, combine well, and serve warm.