Lemon-Marinated Chicken with Rice


Mediterranean Magic: One-Skillet Extravaganza

Welcome to our culinary adventure, where weeknight dinners meet Mediterranean magic! Today, we're delving into the world of easy yet extraordinary with a show-stopping Lemon-Marinated Chicken with Rice one-skillet meal. Designed for those busy evenings when time is precious but flavor is non-negotiable, this dish promises not just a meal, but a culinary escape that's perfect for your weeknight dinner repertoire. Join us as we transform ordinary evenings into extraordinary dining experiences!


The Marination Marvel:
Our flavor odyssey begins with a zesty marinade featuring extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, and aromatic oregano. The chicken thighs luxuriate in this citrus-infused concoction, absorbing all the vibrant flavors. Pro tip: Give it a bit of extra time to marinate for an intensified taste explosion!

Searing Brilliance:
Once our chicken has soaked up the Mediterranean goodness, we embark on the stovetop adventure. Searing the marinated chicken thighs creates a golden exterior, locking in those luscious flavors. The kitchen is filled with the irresistible aroma of garlic, lemon, and oregano - a promise of the delectable meal to come.

The One-Skillet Symphony:
Next, we move to the heart of the operation—the one skillet that ties everything together. Onions join the party, followed by a splash of dry vermouth (or white wine). The pan deglazing process ensures no flavor is left behind. It's a culinary symphony in one pan!

Oven-Baked Elegance:
Time to let the oven work its magic! Introduce the rice bathed in simmering chicken stock and nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, and surround it with lemon slices. The oven transforms this ensemble into a harmonious masterpiece, with the rice absorbing all the savory goodness.

The Grand Finale:
As the skillet emerges from the oven, your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of Mediterranean delight. Garnish with fresh oregano and additional lemon slices for a visually stunning presentation. Your Lemon-Marinated Chicken with Rice is ready to steal the spotlight.

Pairing Suggestions:
Complete this culinary journey with a crisp glass of white wine or a refreshing lemon sparkling water to complement the vibrant flavors of the dish. The citrus notes perfectly harmonize with the marinated chicken and oregano.
 
 

Recipe: Mediterranean Lemon Marinated Chicken with Rice

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Main Dish:
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 1/2 cup dry vermouth or white wine
  • Additional lemon slices for garnish
  • Fresh oregano for garnish
  • 1 package of frozen baby peas (optional)
  • Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the EVOO, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.

  2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or for a more intense flavor, let it marinate for up to 4 hours.

  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and sear until golden brown on both sides. Remove chicken and set aside.

  5. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then deglaze with dry vermouth.

  6. Add the seared chicken back to the skillet, arranging lemon slices around the chicken.

  7. In a separate pot, bring chicken stock to a simmer. Stir in the rice and transfer the rice mixture to the skillet, arranging it around the chicken.

  8. Cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (175ºF/80ºC internal temperature) and the rice is tender.

  9. Optional: For a golden finish on the chicken, uncover the skillet during the last 10 minutes of baking. Also, if desired, add a package of frozen peas for a touch of color.

  10. Once done, remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh oregano and additional lemon slices.

  11. Serve this Mediterranean masterpiece, and savor the delicious harmony of lemon-marinated chicken with perfectly cooked rice. Enjoy!

     


There you have it - a Mediterranean feast that's as enjoyable to make as it is to eat!
 
This Lemon-Marinated Chicken with Rice one-skillet extravaganza is a celebration of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean.
 
Gather around the table, savor every bite, and make dining a delightful experience. Happy cooking!

As always, reach out to The Small Town Chef with any questions or comments. We look forward to hearing from you.

 

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Location: Northampton, PA, USA

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