Chef Mitchell preparing Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice recipe during a trip to the Mediterranean, where the fresh flavors captivated my taste buds. After experimenting with various herbs and spices, I finally perfected it to balance the zesty lemon with savory chicken. This dish has become a family favorite and a staple at our dinner gatherings, bringing a touch of the Mediterranean to our table."

With over a decade of culinary experience, I specialize in Mediterranean cuisine, crafting dishes that highlight fresh ingredients and bold flavors. My passion for cooking began in my mother’s kitchen, where I learned to appreciate the essence of wholesome meals. I have since honed my skills, focusing on creating delicious, healthy recipes for home cooks.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice served on a plate

Why This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice Recipe Works

This recipe combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the aromatic flavors of fresh herbs, resulting in a dish that's vibrant and full of character. Grilling the chicken adds a smoky depth, while cooking the rice in chicken broth enhances its flavor. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Using a marinade allows the chicken to absorb the flavors, ensuring a juicy and tender result. The technique of grilling not only cooks the chicken quickly but also gives it a beautiful char that enhances the overall presentation. The addition of cherry tomatoes adds freshness and a pop of color to the plate.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if you can. This allows the herbs and lemon to infuse thoroughly into the meat. Additionally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to retain its juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice in advance. Marinate the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cook the rice and store it separately. When ready to serve, simply grill the chicken and reheat the rice for a quick meal.

You can substitute chicken with turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Both alternatives will work well with the marinade and grilling method, providing a delicious meal that's still full of flavor.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into the thickest part to check that the juices run clear. The rice should be fluffy and no longer hard.

Yes, you can freeze the grilled chicken and rice separately. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Frozen grilled chicken can last for up to 3 months, while rice can last for about 1 month.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of tzatziki sauce for added flavor or some warm pita bread.

In the fridge, Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice will last for up to 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Make sure to cool it down before refrigerating to maintain its quality.

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance and store the rice in the fridge. This makes for a quick and easy dinner when you're ready to eat.

Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For the rice, use a microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist, heating in 30-second intervals until hot.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the chicken turns out dry, it may have been overcooked or not marinated long enough.

Solution: Ensure to monitor the chicken's internal temperature closely and consider marinating it for a longer time to enhance moisture retention.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken skin isn’t crispy, it could be due to cooking at too low a temperature.

Solution: Make sure your grill is preheated properly and consider finishing the chicken over direct heat for a minute or two.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can become tough and chewy.

Prevention: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and remove the chicken from the grill as soon as it reaches 165°F (75°C).

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Undercooked chicken can pose a health risk.

Recovery: Make sure to check the thickest part of the chicken for doneness. If it's undercooked, return it to the grill until fully cooked.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: Burnt chicken can occur if the heat is too high or if it cooks too long.

Prevention: Adjust the grill temperature and avoid leaving the chicken unattended while grilling.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the dish is too salty, you can add more rice to dilute the saltiness.

Bland: If the flavor is bland, consider adding more herbs, spices, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Fresh ingredients for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice

Essential Ingredients for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice

The key ingredients in this recipe include fresh chicken, which provides protein, and jasmine rice, known for its fluffy texture. The use of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme really brings out the Mediterranean flavors, while lemon adds a refreshing tang. Cherry tomatoes contribute a burst of color and flavor, enhancing the dish.

Always choose high-quality ingredients for the best results. Fresh herbs should look vibrant and aromatic, while chicken should be free of any discoloration. Opting for organic or local produce can significantly elevate the taste of your meal.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces can enhance flavor and moisture. However, boneless, skinless chicken is a healthier option and cooks faster.
  • Rice: Jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrance and texture, but you can substitute it with basmati rice or brown rice for a healthier twist.
  • Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme should be used for maximum flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but the flavor won't be as intense.
Cooking process for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks. Begin by marinating the chicken, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the rice. Grilling the chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor that complements the zesty rice.

Pay attention to the cooking times for the chicken and rice to ensure everything is perfectly done. Using a meat thermometer can be a helpful tool to avoid overcooking the chicken while ensuring that the rice is fluffy and light.

Key Technique for Perfect Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice

The key to achieving perfectly grilled chicken lies in the marination process. Allowing the chicken to soak in the lemon herb mixture not only infuses it with flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. This technique ensures that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful after grilling.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon honey
    Optional
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For extra flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    To season

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 2 cups jasmine rice
    Rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
    Extra virgin
  • 2 lemons, juiced and zested
    Fresh
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
    Fresh
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
    Or 1 teaspoon dried
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
    Or 1 teaspoon dried
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    Freshly ground
  • 2 cups chicken broth
    For cooking rice
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    Fresh
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
    For garnish
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
    For topping

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken

    In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Prepare Rice

    In a pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add jasmine rice and cook according to package instructions until fluffy.

  3. Cook Chicken

    Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill marinated chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked and juices run clear.

  4. Add Tomatoes

    In the last few minutes of grilling, add cherry tomatoes to the grill, cooking until slightly charred.

  5. Combine Ingredients

    Once chicken is done, remove from grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice and mix in grilled tomatoes and parsley.

  6. Serve

    Slice the grilled chicken and serve it over the rice. Top with crumbled feta cheese.

  7. Garnish

    Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

  8. Enjoy

    Enjoy your Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice hot with a side of your favorite salad!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and rice separately.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Rice with a refreshing side salad or grilled vegetables. A dollop of tzatziki sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish even further.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to the grill. For a spicy twist, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.