Name: Quick Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken breasts, cut into small pieces; 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 6 cloves garlic, chopped; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or thyme); Sea salt and pepper, to taste; Chili flakes, to taste; 2-3 cups bell pepper quarters or zucchini rounds; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; Tzatziki, for serving; Mixed herbs (basil, thyme, dill) for garnish; 2 tablespoons salted butter; 1 cup basmati rice; 3/4 cup orzo; 2-3 tablespoons pine nuts (optional)

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 14 reviews

If you’re craving a delightful fusion of Greek-inspired flavors with a comforting, hearty base, this Quick Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy chicken breasts are marinated with fragrant herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection and paired with a buttery, nutty rice pilaf that sings with every bite. Colorful grilled veggies and creamy feta bring brightness and freshness, while a dollop of cool tzatziki ties the whole dish together. This is a recipe that promises satisfaction, simplicity, and lots of smiles at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass measuring cup filled with several layers of ingredients, starting with a yellow oily liquid at the bottom, followed by chunks of light pink raw chicken pieces, topped with a layer of small light yellow chopped garlic, fresh green thyme sprigs scattered over, and a layer of red and brown ground spices on one side. The measuring cup is on a white marbled surface with some green herb leaves hanging above the rim of the cup. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting ready to make this Quick Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf Recipe is a breeze when you have just the right ingredients. Each one plays its part whether it’s giving the chicken that smoky, herbaceous kick or making the rice pilaf irresistibly creamy and nutty.

Chicken breasts (2 pounds): Cut into small pieces to soak up all the marinade flavors and cook evenly on skewers.
Salted butter (6 tablespoons + 2 tablespoons): Adds rich creaminess for both the chicken marinade and the rice pilaf’s toasty base.
Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brings brightness and tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
Garlic cloves (6, chopped): Infuses a fragrant, savory punch into the marinade.
Smoked paprika (1 tablespoon): Offers a warm, smoky depth that makes this dish particularly addictive.
Dried oregano (2 teaspoons): The quintessential Greek herb that pairs perfectly with chicken and veggies.
Dried rosemary or thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds an earthy, pine-like aroma boosting the herbal harmony.
Sea salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
Chili flakes: A touch of heat to balance out the richness.
Bell pepper quarters or zucchini rounds (2-3 cups): For grilling alongside the chicken, adding texture and vibrant color.
Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Provide juicy bursts of sweetness.
Crumbled feta cheese (1/2 cup): Creamy, salty, and tangy — a classic finishing touch for any Greek-inspired dish.
Tzatziki: Perfect for serving and adding a refreshing coolness.
Mixed fresh herbs (basil, thyme, dill): For garnish, enhancing flavor and presentation.
Basmati rice (1 cup): The fluffy, fragrant starch base that absorbs all those buttery and nutty notes.
Orzo (3/4 cup): Adds lovely texture contrasts in the pilaf.
Pine nuts (2-3 tablespoons, optional): Toasted to bring a delicate crunch and subtle nuttiness.

How to Make Quick Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Pilaf

The rice pilaf sets the stage for this dish’s signature flavor combination. Begin by melting butter in a medium pot over medium heat, then stir in the basmati rice, orzo, and pine nuts if you’re using them. Let the butter brown lightly, which intensifies the nuttiness and adds complexity. Next, add two cups of water or broth, bringing it all to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes. Then turn off the heat but keep the lid on, allowing the rice to steam and fluff up for another 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

While the rice cooks, toss the chicken pieces in a bowl with melted butter, lemon juice, chopped garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, rosemary, sea salt, pepper, and chili flakes. This marinade is where all the magic happens — the garlic and herbs infuse into the chicken, while the butter and lemon juice keep each bite tender and flavorful. If you have the time, let the chicken sit for at least 10 minutes, or cover and refrigerate for up to overnight to deepen the flavors.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken and Vegetables

Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat. Thread the chicken onto skewers, making sure pieces are snug but not crowded to ensure even cooking. Grill the skewers until charred in spots and cooked through, turning every few minutes, which usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes total. At the same time, grill the bell peppers and zucchini rounds for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, letting them soften and develop that irresistible smoky crust.

Step 4: Assemble Your Plate

Time to bring it all together! Serve the grilled chicken skewers over generous bowls of the buttery rice pilaf. Arrange the grilled veggies and cherry tomatoes alongside for a pop of color and fresh sweetness. Sprinkle the whole dish with crumbled feta and garnish with fresh mixed herbs. Of course, don’t forget a dollop of creamy tzatziki on the side to cool things down. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, some warm naan or pita bread rounds out the meal perfectly.

How to Serve Quick Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf Recipe

The image shows three skewers placed on a hot black grill with visible steam rising, indicating cooking in progress. Each skewer is layered with chunks of orange-yellow marinated meat coated with spices and herbs, giving a textured and glossy appearance. Small green leaves garnish the top of the skewers, adding color contrast. The grill has some oil and spice residues that reflect the light, enhancing the cooked food's appeal. The background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The little touches make a big difference! Fresh mixed herbs like basil, thyme, and dill lift the flavors with their bright, aromatic notes, and crumbled feta adds that savory tang everyone loves. A good dollop of tzatziki is essential for cooling the palate and adding creamy texture.

Side Dishes

This Quick Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides such as a crisp Greek salad or roasted Mediterranean vegetables. Warm pita or naan bread makes scooping up the rice, chicken, and tzatziki a delight, turning this into a communal feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, try serving the souvlaki and rice pilaf in colorful individual bowls layered with grilled veggies and topped with herb sprigs. You can also turn this into a platter-style meal for sharing—arrange the skewers centrally with piles of rice, veggies, and spreads scattered around. It looks stunning and invites everyone to dig in together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of the Quick Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf Recipe can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken and rice are cooled before sealing to preserve freshness and moisture.

Freezing

If you want to save this meal for longer, freeze the cooked chicken and rice pilaf separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing tzatziki, as its texture changes when thawed.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist. Chicken reheats best covered, so it stays juicy and tender. Add fresh herbs and a new spoonful of tzatziki to revive those bright flavors.

FAQs

Can I use thigh meat instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even juicier and more forgiving when grilled. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and follow the same marinade and cooking times for delicious results.

Is it necessary to use orzo in the rice pilaf?

Orzo adds a lovely texture and nutty flavor, but if you don’t have any, just increase the basmati rice quantity slightly. The dish will still be fantastic—sometimes simplicity is best!

How spicy is this dish with the chili flakes?

The chili flakes add a gentle warmth without overpowering the other flavors. However, you can always adjust the amount to your preference or omit it if you prefer a milder meal.

Can I prepare this recipe without a grill?

Yes! A grill pan or a heavy skillet works perfectly on your stovetop. Just make sure the pan is hot enough to get that nice sear and slight charring on the chicken and veggies.

What can I substitute for pine nuts?

If pine nuts are hard to find or you want to skip them, toasted slivered almonds or chopped walnuts can provide a similar crunch and nuttiness in the rice pilaf.

Final Thoughts

This Quick Chicken Souvlaki Rice Pilaf Recipe combines everything you want from a home-cooked meal—flavor, ease, and a little bit of flair. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Trust me, once you try it, it will become one of your go-to favorites too!