Description
This Air Fryer Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice Bake is a flavorful, one-pot meal combining tender marinated chicken, aromatic herbs, tangy lemon, and perfectly cooked rice. Ideal for a quick, healthy dinner, it uses the air fryer to achieve juicy chicken and fluffy rice with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into large chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Rice and Vegetables
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
- ½ red onion, sliced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
Toppings and Garnish
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse while preparing other ingredients.
- Combine Rice and Broth: In an air fryer-safe baking dish or insert, place the rinsed long-grain white rice and pour in the chicken broth evenly.
- Assemble the Dish: Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on top of the rice, then spread the sliced red onion and zucchini evenly over the chicken.
- Air Fry the Meal: Place the baking dish into the air fryer basket. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. Check and gently stir the ingredients around the 15-minute mark to ensure even cooking.
- Check Doneness and Rest: Ensure the rice is tender and the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the dish from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra brightness.
Notes
- Ensure your baking dish fits inside your air fryer; if not, you can use a conventional oven and bake at 375°F for 35–40 minutes.
- For added flavor and variety, consider adding kalamata olives or cherry tomatoes before cooking.
- Feel free to substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if preferred, keeping in mind the cooking time may slightly vary.
