Greek Chicken and Rice Skillet

Introduction

The Greek Chicken and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines tender, juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies with the bright, zesty flavors of Greek-inspired seasonings. Infused with lemon, garlic, oregano, and fresh herbs, this dish delivers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and aromatic goodness. It’s a satisfying, wholesome meal that brings together everything you love about Mediterranean cuisine—effortlessly, with minimal cleanup.

I first made this dish when I wanted a quick, flavorful dinner that felt both wholesome and vibrant. The combination of sautéed onions, tomatoes, olives, and spinach adds a burst of color and nutrition, while the lemon juice brings a bright, citrusy finish that lifts the entire skillet. The rice absorbs all the rich flavors, creating a satisfying, well-balanced base that pairs beautifully with the succulent chicken pieces.

What I love most about the Greek Chicken and Rice Skillet is its versatility. You can add feta cheese for a creamy, salty touch, toss in bell peppers for extra crunch, or include artichoke hearts for a unique twist. Serve it with a side of warm pita bread and a simple Greek salad for a fully Mediterranean experience. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering, this skillet meal offers a delightful combination of flavors, textures, and Mediterranean charm in every bite.

Perfect for:

Quick weeknight dinners
Family meals
Mediterranean food lovers
Meal prepping
Healthy and balanced eating

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Greek Chicken and Rice Skillet will become your go-to dinner recipe:

Mediterranean Flavors: A harmonious blend of lemon, garlic, oregano, and fresh herbs captures the essence of Greek cuisine.
One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal cleanup with all ingredients cooked together in a single skillet.
Tender Chicken Pieces: Juicy, well-seasoned chicken that pairs perfectly with fluffy rice.
Colorful Vegetables: Bell peppers, tomatoes, and spinach add nutrition, flavor, and vibrant colors.
Balanced Nutritional Profile: Provides a good mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
Quick and Convenient: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Customizable Ingredients: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to taste.
Lemon Infused Goodness: The lemon juice adds a zesty, refreshing twist to the dish.
Herbs and Spices Galore: Oregano, garlic, and parsley bring authentic Greek flavors to your plate.
Meal Prepping Friendly: Great for making ahead and storing for lunches or quick dinners.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice Skillet:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup uncooked rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups spinach leaves
2 ½ cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon slices

Ingredient Highlights

Chicken Breast: Lean protein that’s tender and flavorful in every bite.
Spinach Leaves: Adds a boost of vitamins and a touch of green goodness.
Rice: Fluffy and absorbs all the savory, lemon-infused broth.
Dried Oregano: A key herb that delivers that authentic Greek flavor.
Lemon Juice: Provides a zesty, refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables:

Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Cook the Chicken: Add diced chicken to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and oregano, and sauté until browned (about 5 minutes).
Add Vegetables: Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, sauté for another 3 minutes until fragrant.

Add Rice and Tomatoes:

Stir in Rice: Add 1 cup uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the drained tomatoes and 2 ½ cups of chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring the skillet to a boil.

Simmer the Rice:

Reduce Heat and Cover: Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Add Spinach: Stir in the spinach leaves and lemon juice, allowing the spinach to wilt.

Garnish and Serve:

Finish with Parsley and Lemon: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and garnish with lemon slices. Serve warm.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Greek Chicken and Rice Skillet:

Classic Dinner: Serve as a standalone dish for a hearty meal.
With Greek Pita Bread: Pair with warm pita for a more substantial Greek experience.
Add Tzatziki Sauce: Drizzle with tzatziki for an extra creamy touch.
With Side Salad: Serve alongside a Greek-style salad for a balanced meal.
Lemon Zest Garnish: Add lemon zest for a more intense lemon flavor.
Crumbled Feta Cheese: Sprinkle feta on top for an authentic Greek touch.
Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
Stuffed Peppers Variation: Use this mix to fill bell peppers for a unique twist.
Add Olives: Toss in some Kalamata olives for a salty, Mediterranean flavor.
Meal Prep Option: Store in containers for quick, healthy lunches throughout the week.

Additional Tips

Adjust the Seasoning: Customize the seasoning with more garlic or extra oregano to suit your taste.
Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds better texture and nutrients than frozen spinach.
Sauté Vegetables Well: Sauté onions and bell peppers until they’re soft for more robust flavors.
Simmer Gently: Let the rice absorb the broth slowly to maintain the perfect texture.
Garnish Before Serving: Fresh parsley and lemon slices enhance the visual appeal and flavor.

Recipe Variations

Quinoa Greek Skillet: Replace rice with quinoa for a higher-protein twist.
Greek Chicken and Orzo: Use orzo instead of rice for a Mediterranean pasta experience.
Extra Vegetables: Add zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for a heartier skillet.
Lemon Herb Marinade Chicken: Marinate chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and oregano before sautéing.
Feta-Infused Rice: Mix crumbled feta into the rice after cooking for a tangy twist.
Vegan Greek Skillet: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Spicy Greek Twist: Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
Bulgur Wheat Version: Use bulgur wheat for a Mediterranean-style grain dish.
Kale Greek Skillet: Swap spinach for kale for added nutrients and a heartier texture.
Greek Lemon Butter Rice: Drizzle rice with a lemon butter sauce before serving.

Special Equipment

Large Skillet: Essential for sautéing and simmering everything in one pan.
Sharp Knife: For chopping chicken and vegetables evenly.
Lid for Skillet: Helps rice cook evenly by retaining moisture.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring and even mixing.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Customize it with your favorite veggies like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, rice is naturally gluten-free, but make sure all broth and seasonings are cross-contamination free.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or black pepper to taste.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase the cooking time by about 10 minutes.
What other proteins can I substitute for chicken?
Use tofu, tempeh, shrimp, or chickpeas for different protein options.
Does the lemon juice overpower the flavors?
No, it complements the flavors and adds a refreshing brightness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well and reheats beautifully in the skillet or microwave.
Should I drain the tomatoes before adding them?
Yes, draining tomatoes helps prevent the skillet from becoming too watery.

Conclusion

This Greek Chicken and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder that brings the vibrant flavors of Greece right to your dinner table. Juicy, seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, colorful bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and earthy olives all come together in a hearty, aromatic skillet. Finished with a hint of lemon zest and fresh parsley, every bite is a delightful mix of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors. It’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners, offering both comfort and a taste of the Mediterranean.

The magic of this dish is in its simplicity and balance of ingredients. The chicken is seared to a golden perfection and seasoned with a mix of garlic, oregano, and lemon juice, infusing every bite with a bright, zesty flavor. The rice absorbs all the juices, creating a rich, savory base, while tomatoes and bell peppers add freshness and a burst of sweetness. A sprinkle of feta cheese and Kalamata olives offers a salty, tangy finish that perfectly ties everything together.

I’d love to see your Greek Chicken and Rice Skillet creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I can’t wait to see your Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share any creative twists or personal touches that made your skillet uniquely yours!