Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Lemon Rice

• 1 ½ cups basmati rice
• 2 ½ cups water
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 pound chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cucumber, diced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Optional: lemon wedges for serving

Steps

1. 1 In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, and half of the lemon zest and juice. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. 2 While the rice cooks, in a bowl, mix chicken with olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 20 minutes.
3. 3 Thread chicken onto skewers. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and cook skewers for 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through.
4. 4 In a large bowl, toss cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion with remaining lemon zest and juice.
5. 5 Fluff cooked rice with a fork and divide among bowls. Top with grilled chicken skewers and the tomato cucumber salad.
6. 6 Garnish with parsley and serve with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Medium saucepan
• Skewers

Variations

• Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian option.
• Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor.

Substitutions

• If you don't have basmati rice, use jasmine or long-grain white rice.
• For a dairy-free option, ensure your lemon vinaigrette is made without any dairy products.

Pairings

• Serve with a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc.
• A sparkling water with a splash of lemon and mint makes a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a smokier flavor, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
• Use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option, but adjust cook time as needed.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to keep the rice moist.

Freezing: This dish does not freeze well due to the texture of the rice, but you can freeze the cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple Greek salad and warm pita bread for a complete meal.
• A refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce complements the grilled chicken beautifully.

FAQ