Greek Rice Recipe with Lemon & Herbs

This Greek rice recipe with lemon and herbs is one of my all-time favorites—zesty, comforting, and packed with Mediterranean flavor. The combination of fluffy rice, rich broth, sautéed onions and garlic, and a generous splash of lemon juice and zest creates a bright, fragrant side dish with a subtle yellow hue.

It’s quick, easy, and incredibly versatile—pair it with everything from roasted chicken to grilled fish, Moroccan chicken, or even a hearty vegetarian platter. If you’re looking for a reliable Greek rice recipe that’s simple yet impressive, you’ve found it!

Ingredients in Your Greek Lemon Rice Recipe:

• Long-Grain White Rice: Long-grain white rice provides a neutral base for the dish, allowing the flavors of the other ingredients to shine.
• Ghee or Unsalted Butter: Ghee or butter contributes a rich, creamy, and slightly nutty flavor, enhancing the overall richness of the rice.
• Garlic: Minced garlic brings a savory and aromatic element, infusing the rice with a delightful garlicky essence.
• Dried Oregano: Dried oregano offers a distinct earthy and slightly bitter flavor with floral notes, adding depth to the rice.
• Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice and Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon juice provides a zesty, tangy kick, while lemon zest imparts a bright and citrusy aroma, creating a refreshing contrast.
• Chicken Broth: Chicken broth infuses the rice with a savory and meaty flavor, enriching the overall taste.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Dill, Mint, Oregano, Basil): A medley of fresh herbs adds layers of freshness and herbaceousness to the rice, enhancing its aroma and flavor, with each herb contributing its unique character.

Tips for Perfect Greek Rice

• Choosing the Right Rice and Yield: Opt for long-grain white rice for the best lemon Greek yellow rice. It offers a firm and fluffy texture, ensuring the rice doesn’t turn mushy and absorbs the flavors evenly. While other rice varieties may work, long-grain white rice is ideal. You can expect approximately 3 cups of cooked Greek Lemon Rice when using one cup of uncooked rice. This helps you plan your servings and portion sizes effectively. The yield may vary slightly based on factors like rice brand and cooking method.
• Wash and Soak the Rice: Before cooking, washing and soaking the rice is crucial. This extra step removes excess starch and debris, producing non-sticky and transparent rice. Soaking the rice in warm water for 20 minutes helps it absorb moisture and cook evenly, creating a light and fluffy texture.
• Let It Rest and Fluff with a Fork: Allow the rice to rest for 10 minutes after cooking. Then, use a fork to fluff it up instead of a spoon. This resting period helps the rice absorb any remaining liquid and ensures even cooking. Fluffing with a fork separates the grains and prevents them from sticking together while releasing excess steam, preventing mushiness.

Variations of this Greek rice recipe

Looking to switch up your Greek rice recipe? Try adding simple ingredients for extra flavor and texture. Toss in peas or diced carrots for a touch of sweetness and color, or stir in toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts for a satisfying crunch.

Mix in a bit of orzo pasta for a heartier version—a common Mediterranean twist that adds body and richness. These easy upgrades require minimal effort but elevate your lemon rice to an entirely new level of flavor and presentation.

Serving Suggestions

This zesty lemon Greek yellow rice is a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with various Mediterranean recipes. I love serving it alongside succulent roasted chicken with creamy yogurt sauce and a refreshing fattoush salad. The combination of flavors and textures is divine. Whether for a crowd or a family meal, this dish will impress. It also complements dishes like beef goulash and coq au vin.