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A mound of fluffy Greek Lemon Rice garnished generously with bright yellow lemon zest and chopped fresh dill.

Greek Lemon Rice (Avgolemono Pilafi)


  • Author: Ahazzam
  • Total Time: 35 min
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Prepare fluffy, bright Greek Lemon Rice using chicken broth and fresh lemon for an authentic side dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice (like Arborio or Basmati), rinsed
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Zest of 1 large lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped


Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the rinsed rice to the pan and toast, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until the edges look slightly translucent.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  6. Remove the pan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for an additional 10 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this resting period.
  7. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  8. Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, dill, and parsley until evenly combined.
  9. Serve immediately as a side dish.

Notes

  • Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, which helps create fluffier, separate grains.
  • For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
  • This rice pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or as a base for a Greek chicken and rice casserole filling.
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 25 min
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup cooked
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 450
  • Fat: 7
  • Saturated Fat: 1
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 65
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 8
  • Cholesterol: 5