Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a perfect balance of bold and fresh flavors. The chicken is marinated with a combination of lemon, garlic, smoked paprika, and dried herbs, making every bite juicy and packed with Mediterranean goodness. The rice pilaf, with its buttery base and added texture from orzo and pine nuts, complements the chicken perfectly. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes round out the dish, while a sprinkle of crumbled feta and mixed herbs adds a burst of freshness. The addition of tzatziki brings everything together with its creamy, tangy flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
• 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 6 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or thyme)
• Sea salt and pepper, to taste
• Chili flakes, to taste
• 2-3 cups bell pepper quarters or zucchini rounds
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Tzatziki, for serving
• Mixed herbs (basil, thyme, dill) for garnish

For the Rice Pilaf:

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 3/4 cup orzo
• 2-3 tablespoons pine nuts (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, chopped garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, rosemary (or thyme), sea salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Prepare the Rice Pilaf:
   In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the basmati rice and orzo, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until lightly toasted.
3. Add 2 cups of water to the rice mixture (or according to your rice package instructions) and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. If you’re using pine nuts, toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until golden, and then stir them into the cooked rice for added texture.
4. Cook the Chicken and Vegetables:
   Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until browned on all sides and cooked through.
5. While the chicken cooks, add the bell pepper quarters or zucchini rounds to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly charred and tender. Toss in the cherry tomatoes during the last 2 minutes of cooking, just to warm them through.
6. Assemble the Dish:
   Once the chicken and vegetables are cooked, remove them from the heat. Fluff the rice pilaf with a fork and plate it. Top with the grilled chicken and vegetables.
7. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top, garnish with fresh mixed herbs like basil, thyme, and dill, and serve with a side of tzatziki.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes (for marinating the chicken)
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or grilled halloumi for a vegetarian alternative.
• Grilled Chicken: For added flavor, grill the chicken pieces instead of cooking them on a skillet.
• Rice Variation: Swap out basmati rice for quinoa or couscous for a different texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add more chili flakes to the chicken marinade for a spicier dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken and rice pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. If the rice looks dry, add a splash of water or broth to rehydrate it.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs in place of chicken breasts. They will add more flavor and moisture to the dish, and the cooking time will be slightly longer.

Can I make the rice pilaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the rice pilaf ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it in a pan with a little butter or broth to bring it back to life.

Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

Yes, while basmati rice is preferred for its fragrance and texture, you can use jasmine rice or long-grain rice if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio according to the rice type.

How can I make the tzatziki sauce?

Tzatziki can be made by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, you can add more chili flakes to the chicken marinade or even add diced jalapeños to the vegetables while they cook for an extra spicy kick.

Can I freeze the chicken and rice pilaf?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and rice pilaf separately. Let the chicken and rice cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers. The dish will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like eggplant, mushrooms, or spinach to the dish for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure that the orzo is gluten-free, this dish can easily be made gluten-free. You can also replace orzo with gluten-free pasta.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also substitute the butter in the rice pilaf with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine.

Can I make this recipe on the grill?

Yes, you can grill the chicken and vegetables on an outdoor grill for a smoky flavor. Just thread the chicken and veggies onto skewers and grill them until fully cooked.

Conclusion

Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf is a flavorful and satisfying meal that brings together tender grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory rice pilaf. The combination of Greek-inspired seasoning, crumbled feta, and tzatziki creates a dish full of bold flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or preparing it for a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!

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