Greek Lemon Rice Pilaf Recipe
A bright and flavorful Greek Lemon Rice Pilaf made with aromatic herbs, fresh lemon juice, and tender long grain rice cooked in savory chicken broth. This easy stovetop recipe highlights classic Mediterranean flavors and pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood, or as a side to your favorite Greek dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or butter)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped (white, brown, or yellow)
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 large lemon (1 tsp zest + 3–4 tbsp lemon juice)
- 3 tbsp finely chopped parsley
- 3 tbsp finely chopped dill (or substitute with parsley, oregano, basil, chives, or mint)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat Oil: Heat extra virgin olive oil or butter over medium heat in a large saucepan or small pot until shimmering.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and sweet.
- Toast Rice: Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir continuously until the rice turns mostly translucent, which enhances the nutty flavor.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and water, then cover the pot with a lid. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook Rice: Reduce the heat to low and let the rice cook gently for 12 minutes or until the liquid has fully evaporated and the rice is tender.
- Rest Rice: Remove the pot from heat but keep it covered. Let the rice rest for 10 minutes to allow the steam to finish cooking and fluff the grains.
- Finish with Lemon and Herbs: Remove the lid and stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, chopped dill, and salt and pepper to taste, mixing gently to combine flavors evenly.
- Serve: Serve the Greek Lemon Rice Pilaf warm or at room temperature as a delightful side to Mediterranean dishes.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, add additional lemon zest or juice according to taste.
- Fresh herbs can be swapped with dried herbs; use about 1 tablespoon dried herbs instead of 3 tablespoons fresh.
- Long grain rice is preferred for a fluffy texture; do not use quick-cooking rice as cooking time and liquid requirements differ.
- Resting the rice after cooking is key for perfect texture and allows flavors to meld.
Keywords: Greek lemon rice, rice pilaf, Mediterranean side dish, lemon rice, easy rice recipe, stovetop rice
Find it online: https://kitchenbyclara.com/greek-lemon-rice-pilaf-recipe/
