Lemony Greek Rice Pilaf – Comfort for the Body and the Mind

Why This Dish Supports Mental Health

Complex carbohydrates and protein stabilize blood sugar and promote steady serotonin production — critical for lifting mood and improving sleep. This is part of the Conquering Depression with the Mediterranean Diet  series of recipes and gently guide you toward working for empowerment, encouragement, and lasting emotional wellness. Liesl can help.

Recipe: Lemony Greek Rice Pilaf with Chicken

Prep Time: 5 min Cook Time: 20 min Servings: 4 portions 1x Source: Mygreekdish.com

Ingredients

8 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin on

1 1/2 cup rice (long grain rice or basmati)

2 tbsps butter

1 small red onion, roughly chopped

3 cups chicken stock

juice of 1 lemon (or more if you prefer)

6–7 peppercorns

salt and freshly ground pepper

2–3 tbsps olive oil

150g/5 oz. feta cheese for garnish (optional)

Directions

To prepare this Greek rice pilaf recipe with chicken thighs, start by washing thoroughly the chicken thighs and pat them dry with some kitchen paper. Drizzle the chicken thighs with olive oil, season well with salt and pepper and rub using your hands.

Heat a large pan over medium high heat and place the chicken thighs inside. Let them color and cook for about 6 minutes on each side, until the skin is nicely coloured and crispy. Remove the chicken thighs from the pan and set side.

Now it’s time to prepare the Greek rice pilaf. In the same pan add 1-2 tbsps olive oil and the chopped onions and sauté until soft.

Add the butter and rice and sauté the rice until translucent.

Pour in the chicken stock and lemon juice and deglaze.

Add the chicken thighs (skin side up) and season well with salt and pepper.

Place the lid on, turn the heat down and simmer the Greek rice pilaf for about 15 minutes, until the chicken and rice are cooked and all the liquid has been absorbed.

Finish off the Greek rice pilaf with a last minute squeeze of lemon juice, crumbled feta cheese and freshly ground pepper.

Emotional Wellness Reflection

When the nervous system feels safe and nourished, the mind begins to heal naturally with the Mediterranean Diet.

Call to Action

You deserve encouragement and support as you build a healthier future. Schedule a consultation with Liesl to strengthen your emotional resilience and create a personalized path forward.