Description
This Air Fryer Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Bake is a flavorful, one-pan meal combining tender chicken, aromatic herbs, zesty lemon, and perfectly cooked rice. Prepared in an air fryer, it offers a quick and healthy twist on traditional Greek-inspired dishes, topped with creamy feta and fresh parsley for a delightful Mediterranean dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Rice and Vegetables
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 ¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat all the chicken well. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the Rice Mixture: Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a 7- to 8-inch air fryer-safe baking dish, combine the rinsed rice, low-sodium chicken broth, chopped red onion, and chopped bell pepper. Stir gently to distribute evenly.
- Assemble the Dish: Evenly place the marinated chicken pieces over the rice and vegetable mixture in the baking dish, ensuring they are spread out for even cooking.
- Cover and Preheat: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the dish.
- Cook in Air Fryer: Carefully place the covered baking dish inside the air fryer basket. Cook for 35 to 40 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Brown the Top: Remove the foil cover and air fry uncovered for an additional 5 minutes. This step will lightly brown the top of the chicken and rice, adding texture and color.
- Garnish and Serve: Carefully take the dish out of the air fryer. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve the dish warm for a comforting Mediterranean meal.
Notes
- Bone-in chicken pieces can be used for deeper flavor; however, increase cook time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.
- For added richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter into the cooked rice before serving.
- Jasmine rice is a great substitute for long grain white rice if preferred.
- Make sure your baking dish fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation and even cooking.
