Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a bright and comforting one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken with fragrant herbs and zesty lemon, this dish offers a fresh, flavorful dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken fillet
• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Step 2: Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Step 3: Add chicken fillet and cook until browned on both sides.
4. Step 4: Stir in rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
5. Step 5: Add dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Step 6: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pan.
7. Step 7: Simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
8. Step 8: Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
9. Step 9: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for 15 minutes before cooking.
• Use brown rice instead of white rice, but increase simmering time to 40-45 minutes.
• Add fresh chopped parsley or basil before serving to freshen the dish.
• Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste or vegetarian adaptation.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if the rice seems dry.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of fillets?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness. Adjust cooking time slightly if pieces are thicker.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 66 reviews

• Author: Matteo
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A vibrant and easy-to-make Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice dish combining tender chicken fillets with fragrant rice cooked in lemon, garlic, and herb-infused chicken broth. Perfect for a quick family meal packed with bright, fresh flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Rice

• 1 lb chicken fillet
• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups chicken broth

Seasonings and Flavorings

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil: Warm the olive oil in a pan over medium heat until shimmering to prepare for sautéing.
2. Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring continuously to avoid burning.
3. Cook chicken: Place the chicken fillets in the pan and cook until they turn golden brown on both sides, ensuring they’re partially cooked through.
4. Add rice and liquids: Stir in the rice, then pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and sprinkle the lemon zest for bright citrus flavor.
5. Season: Add dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste, mixing everything evenly to combine the flavors.
6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pan with a lid to let it simmer.
7. Cook rice: Let the dish simmer for approximately 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
8. Rest: Remove the pan from heat and allow it to sit, covered, for 5 minutes so flavors meld and the rice firms up.
9. Fluff and serve: Use a fork to fluff the rice gently before serving the lemon herb chicken and rice hot.

Notes

• Use long-grain white rice for best texture, or substitute with basmati for a fragrant twist.
• If you prefer, cut chicken into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Adjust salt and pepper according to dietary preferences.
• For extra flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or additional lemon wedges before serving.
• Ensure the pan has a tight-fitting lid for proper simmering.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keywords: lemon herb chicken, chicken and rice, one-pot meal, easy dinner, Mediterranean chicken, family meal, quick chicken recipe, lemon chicken rice