One Pan Lemon Chicken and Rice – Easy Fresh Dinner
One pan lemon chicken and rice with garlic and herbs. A fresh, simple dinner recipe with tender chicken and fluffy rice cooked in a bright lemon sauce.
When I want something fresh and simple for dinner, I often cook lemon chicken and rice.
The lemon makes the whole dish light and bright, and the chicken stays very juicy while the rice absorbs all the flavor.
I like this recipe because everything cooks in one pan, which means fewer dishes and less stress in the kitchen.
If you love creamy chicken dishes, you should also try this Creamy Tuscan Chicken.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 small onion, chopped
juice of 1 lemon
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
Season both sides with salt, pepper and paprika.
- Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the chicken for about 4 minutes per side until lightly golden.
Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Cook onion and garlic
In the same pan add butter and onion.
Cook for about 2 minutes until soft.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the rice
Add the rice and stir for 1 minute.
This helps the rice absorb flavor.
- Add liquid
Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice.
Add lemon zest and stir gently.
- Finish cooking
Return the chicken to the pan.
Cover and cook on low heat for about 18 minutes.
The rice should become soft and fluffy.
- Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
Serve warm with an extra slice of lemon.
Tips
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
Do not cook the garlic too long or it will become bitter.
If the rice looks dry, add 2 tablespoons of broth.
Storage
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Add a little broth when reheating to keep the rice soft.
More Easy Chicken Recipes
• Creamy Tuscan Chicken
https://chefkitchenstudio.com/creamy-tuscan-chicken-easy-restaurant-style-dinner/
• Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
https://chefkitchenstudio.com/garlic-butter-chicken-bites-easy-20-minute-chicken-dinner/
• Honey Garlic Chicken Skillet
https://chefkitchenstudio.com/honey-garlic-chicken-skillet-easy-sweet-and-savory-dinner/
• Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice
https://chefkitchenstudio.com/creamy-garlic-chicken-and-rice-easy-one-pan-dinner-recipe/