Grilled Chicken Skewers with Rice

Tender, charred Greek chicken skewers paired with fragrant lemon rice bring the essence of Mediterranean cooking right to your kitchen. The chicken pieces, infused with bright citrus and aromatic herbs, develop a beautiful golden crust while staying incredibly juicy inside. This dish has become my go-to entertaining recipe, combining simple ingredients into something truly memorable.

Last summer, I served these skewers at a backyard gathering and my guests couldn't stop raving about the tender, flavorful chicken. The secret was letting the meat marinate for a full 4 hours, which really allowed those Mediterranean flavors to develop.

Essential Ingredients

• Chicken thighs: Their higher fat content keeps the meat juicy and tender during grilling. Look for evenly-sized pieces without excess fat
• Extra virgin olive oil: splurge on good quality oil as it forms the base of your marinade. Choose one with a bright, peppery finish
• Fresh lemons: both juice and zest add bright layers of citrus. Pick heavy, fragrant fruits with smooth skin
• Dried oregano: provides that classic Greek flavor. Mediterranean oregano has a more intense, earthy taste than Mexican varieties
• Basmati rice: the long grains stay fluffy and separate, perfect for soaking up the lemony butter sauce. Rinse well before cooking

Detailed Instructions

Create the marinade:Whisk olive oil until it becomes slightly cloudy

Add fresh squeezed lemon juice gradually while whisking to emulsify

Mix in minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt and pepper until well combined

The marinade should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon

Prepare the chicken:Cut thighs into 1.5-inch chunks, keeping sizes consistent

Toss thoroughly in marinade, massaging it into the meat

Cover and refrigerate, turning once halfway through marinating time

Remove from fridge 30 minutes before cooking

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Cook the lemon rice

Heat butter in a saucepan until it starts to foam

Add rinsed rice and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly

Pour in warm chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer

Cover and cook on lowest heat for exactly 15 minutes

Let rest covered for 5 minutes before adding lemon and herbs

Grill the skewers

Thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces

Place on preheated grill at medium-high heat (around 375°F)

Grill for 5-6 minutes without moving to develop nice char marks

Turn and cook additional 4-5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving

My family particularly loves the lemon rice in this recipe. My daughter, who usually picks at her food, always asks for seconds when I make it. The secret is toasting the rice in butter first - it adds an incredible nutty depth that transforms the dish.

The Mediterranean Spirit

Greek cuisine celebrates the simple pleasure of gathering around the table. These skewers remind me of sunny tavernas overlooking the Aegean Sea, where the aroma of grilled meats mingles with sea breeze. The combination of charred chicken and citrusy rice creates that same welcoming atmosphere in your own home.

Perfect Pairings

This dish shines when served alongside crisp vegetables and cooling dips. I love setting out a spread of cucumber spears, cherry tomatoes, and warm pita bread. A simple Greek salad adds freshness and color to the plate.

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After years of making this recipe, I've found it's nearly impossible to mess up. The marinade does most of the work, and even if you get distracted and leave the chicken on the grill a minute too long, those juicy thighs stay tender. It's become my trusted recipe for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, though thighs stay juicier. If using breasts, reduce cooking time to 3-4 minutes per side and watch carefully to avoid drying.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

Minimum 30 minutes, ideal 2-4 hours. Don't exceed 24 hours as the lemon juice can affect texture.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

You can marinate chicken up to 24 hours ahead. Rice can be made 1-2 hours before and kept warm.

→ What can I serve with this?

Greek salad, tzatziki, pita bread, or roasted vegetables make great sides.

→ Can I cook these without a grill?

Yes, use a grill pan or broiler. Cook 4-5 minutes per side until done.