Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf: 30 Minute Mediterranean Feast

Name: Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: – 2 lb (approximately 900 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes; – 6 Tbsp salted butter melted (plus 2 Tbsp extra for the rice); – 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice; – 6 cloves garlic minced; – 1 Tbsp smoked paprika; – 2 tsp dried oregano; – 1 tsp dried rosemary or thyme; – Pinch chili flakes (optional, to taste); – Salt to taste; – freshly ground black pepper to taste; – 2 bell peppers quartered; – 1 large zucchini sliced into 1/2-inch rounds; – 2-3 cups (approximately 300-450 g) cherry tomatoes halved; – 1 cup (approximately 240 ml) tzatziki; – 1/2 cup (approximately 75 g) crumbled feta cheese; – Fresh herbs (basil, thyme, dill, parsley and mint) for garnish, chopped; – 1 cup (approximately 200 g) basmati rice; – 3/4 cup (approximately 115 g) orzo pasta; – 2-3 Tbsp pine nuts (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf

Hey there, fellow food lovers! I can’t wait to share this vibrant Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf recipe with you it’s one of my go-to meals that never fails to impress. Picture juicy chicken skewers packed with Greek flavors, paired with a fluffy rice pilaf that’s got that perfect nutty touch. This dish is so simple yet tastes amazing every time, making it ideal for busy parents or anyone wanting a quick win in the kitchen.

This Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf recipe is quick and simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and straightforward steps. It cooks rapidly, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with lean chicken and wholesome rice, this recipe offers a balanced combination of protein and complex carbohydrates.

One thing I really adore about this Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf is how it adapts easily to various dietary preferences like gluten-free or vegan options! Whether you’re a student cooking on a budget or a working professional needing a nutritious boost, this dish delivers. Its distinctive Greek-inspired seasoning gives that unique, vibrant taste that sets it apart and leaves you feeling satisfied and happy.

The dish is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, supporting overall wellness and a nutritious diet. It can be tailored to meet your needs, whether you follow a gluten-free, low-calorie, or plant-based diet with appropriate substitutions. So, if you’re exploring new Greek Chicken flavors, this Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf
2. Essential Ingredients for Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf
5. Mastering Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf
8. Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun when making Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf it’s like setting up for a flavor adventure! As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I always start with fresh, quality items to make sure everything turns out just right. Today, I’ll walk you through the essentials based on a tried-and-true recipe that brings out those bold Greek tastes we all crave.

Main Ingredients

2 lb (approximately 900 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
6 Tbsp salted butter, melted (plus 2 Tbsp extra for the rice)
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbsp smoked paprika
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried rosemary or thyme
Pinch of chili flakes (optional, to taste)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 bell peppers, quartered
1 large zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
2-3 cups (approximately 300-450 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup (approximately 240 ml) tzatziki
1/2 cup (approximately 75 g) crumbled feta cheese
Fresh herbs for garnish a mix of basil, thyme, dill, parsley and mint, chopped

For the Rice Pilaf

1 cup (approximately 200 g) basmati rice
3/4 cup (approximately 115 g) orzo pasta
2-3 Tbsp pine nuts (optional)

These ingredients make about 6 servings and are key to creating that smoky, fresh vibe I love so much! If you’re watching your diet, you can swap things around easily, like using gluten-free broth if needed. I just love how the garlic and lemon make the chicken taste so bright and fresh it’s seriously amazing with that creamy tzatziki drizzled over everything.

How to Prepare the Perfect Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf: Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, let’s dive into the fun part actually making this Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf! As a home cook who’s always experimenting, I find that following these steps keeps things straightforward and delicious. You’ll start with marinating the chicken to lock in those Greek Chicken flavors, then move on to the rice pilaf for a hearty base.

First Step: Prepare the Rice Pilaf

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 Tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the basmati rice, orzo, and pine nuts (if using), and toast while stirring frequently until the grains turn a light golden color and the nuts are fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Pour in 2 cups (480 ml) water or low-salt broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit, still covered, for 15-20 minutes; fluff with a fork before serving.

Second Step: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, melted 6 Tbsp butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, rosemary or thyme, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. This step really amps up the Chicken Souvlaki taste trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Third Step: Cook the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto metal or soaked wooden skewers. Grill over medium-high heat or use a grill pan for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred. As an alternative, bake on a sheet pan at 450°F (230°C) for 20-30 minutes, turning halfway try this similar chicken grilling method for extra tips!

Fourth Step: Grill the Vegetables

Grill the bell pepper quarters and zucchini rounds for 3-4 minutes per side until tender and lightly charred. This adds a wonderful crunch and color to your Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf don’t skip it!

Fifth Step: Assemble the Bowls

Spoon a portion of the rice pilaf into each bowl. Top with 2-3 chicken skewers, grilled vegetables, and a handful of cherry tomato halves. Drizzle with tzatziki, sprinkle crumbled feta, and garnish generously with the fresh herbs. For a step-by-step Chicken Souvlaki with Rice Pilaf guide, this easy process makes the whole dish come together in no time!

Prepare the chicken by dicing it into bite-sized pieces and marinate with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper; let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb flavors. Rinse the rice under cold water until clear to remove excess starch. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add the marinated chicken, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf

One of the best things about Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf is how flexible it is I love tweaking recipes to fit different needs, and this one is perfect for that! Whether you’re a food enthusiast exploring new options or a busy parent watching calories, these swaps keep the dish tasty and inclusive.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegan option.
Use shrimp or fish fillets for a seafood twist it’s so fun to mix it up!
Incorporate mushrooms as a vegetarian substitute to add umami.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Swap lemon juice with lime for a different citrus note that really brightens things.
Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra vegetables, just like in the original recipe.
Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of oregano for variation.
For spice lovers, include crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
Switch chicken broth with vegetable broth to maintain vegan friendliness.

These changes make Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf a go-to for diet-conscious individuals, and I always feel great serving it to friends!

Mastering Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’ve nailed the basic Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf, let’s amp it up with some pro tips that I swear by in my kitchen! Searing chicken pieces on high heat initially locks in juices and creates a caramelized surface enhancing flavor depth it’s a game-changer for that authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki feel.

Flavor Variations and Pro Techniques

Toasting rice grains in oil before adding broth improves nuttiness, making your Rice Pilaf so much more delicious. Experiment with marinades by adding yogurt and garlic or incorporating spices like cumin and coriander for a twist on traditional Souvlaki Sauce.

Tips	Benefits
Sear chicken first	Locks in moisture for juicier results
Use sun-dried tomatoes	Adds Mediterranean flair

Serve pilaf garnished with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for visual appeal check out this related recipe for more ideas on chicken dishes!

How to Store Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf: Best Practices

Storing leftovers of your Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf keeps the magic going for another day, and I’ve got some easy tricks to share! Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. For freezing, portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating and Meal Prep

Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth.
When batch cooking, cool completely before storing to avoid issues.

This makes it perfect for newlyweds or seniors looking for quick meals trust me, it’s a lifesaver!

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast for Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf?

Yes, chicken thighs work well for Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful due to their higher fat content. When using thighs, adjust the cooking time as they may take slightly longer to cook through than chicken breasts. Be sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

Marinating chicken for at least 30 minutes up to 4 hours is ideal to absorb the flavors of the herbs, lemon, and garlic typically used in souvlaki. If you marinate overnight, the taste will be more intense, but avoid exceeding 24 hours as the acidity in the marinade can affect the meat’s texture.

What type of rice is best for making rice pilaf to serve with Chicken Souvlaki?

Long-grain white rice or basmati rice is best for rice pilaf because they cook up fluffy and separate, which complements the texture of the chicken souvlaki. Rinsing the rice before cooking helps remove excess starch and prevents clumping.

Can I prepare Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf in advance for meal prep?

Yes, both the chicken and rice pilaf can be made ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist. This makes for a quick and tasty meal throughout the week.

What are common side dishes that pair well with Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf?

Traditional sides include Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, grilled vegetables, or warm pita bread. These enhance the Mediterranean flavors and add freshness or creaminess that balances the savory chicken and pilaf. Including a side salad also provides a nutrient boost and variety in texture.

Chicken Souvlaki with Flavorful Rice Pilaf Recipe