If you’re searching for a hearty, bright, and utterly satisfying meal, this Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe is an absolute must-try. The combination of tender, juicy chicken breasts infused with vibrant lemon and aromatic herbs, paired with fluffy, flavorful rice cooked right in the same pan, creates a comforting dish that feels both luxurious and homey. It’s a perfect marriage of zesty freshness and savory depth that easily becomes a weeknight favorite or a dish to impress guests without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture that come together to create an unforgettable dish. From the aromatic herbs to the bright lemon and savory broth, every element counts for a reason.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that soaks up all the lovely lemon and herb flavors.
- 1 cup long grain white rice: Provides a fluffy base that absorbs the cooking juices beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sear the chicken to a perfect golden brown.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses deep, savory warmth throughout the dish.
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced: Brightens everything with its fresh acidity and bold citrus aroma.
- 2 cups chicken broth: The cooking liquid that tenderizes rice and delivers intense chicken flavor.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Brings a subtle Mediterranean herbaceous note to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds earthy nuance and pairs perfectly with lemon.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balance.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Offers a fresh, bright finish and color contrast.
- Lemon slices and rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional): Elevate presentation and add a touch of elegance.
How to Make Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. This step is crucial because it builds a flavor foundation that will permeate the entire dish. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. When hot, sear the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side until it’s beautifully golden and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside; this initial searing locks in juices and brings out that irresistible caramelized flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Toast Rice
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil along with the minced garlic. Garlic only needs about 30 seconds to release its fragrant aroma—don’t let it burn! Then stir in your rice and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes. This step deepens the rice’s flavor and ensures it remains fluffy rather than mushy.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Lemon
Pour in the chicken broth alongside the lemon juice and zest. The lemon juice brightens the entire dish, while the zest adds a lovely punch of citrus oil that’s more subtle but equally important. Stir everything together to combine, and bring your mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the rice starts to soak up those tangy, herbal flavors.
Step 4: Cook Chicken and Rice Together
Carefully nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet on top of the rice mixture. Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and cook undisturbed for 18 to 20 minutes. This method allows the rice to absorb the broth fully while the chicken finishes cooking, making the flavors meld beautifully without extra fuss.
Step 5: Final Touches and Garnish
Once the rice is tender and chicken perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a vibrant, herbaceous finish. If you want to take it a step further, garnish with lemon slices and sprigs of rosemary which elevate both presentation and aroma right at the table.
How to Serve Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes make a big difference! Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the rich, savory notes. Lemon slices refresh the palate and invite guests to squeeze on extra lemon for more zestiness. A sprig of rosemary adds an elegant herbal touch and complements the dried herbs used in cooking.
Side Dishes
This Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp, lightly dressed salads or roasted vegetables to add textural contrast. Try a side of steamed green beans, asparagus, or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. These light sides keep the meal balanced and let the lemon herb flavors shine.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive feel, serve the chicken and rice on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges scattered artfully. Spoon the rice around the chicken or use individual plates with a drizzle of extra olive oil and freshly cracked pepper. You can even sprinkle some toasted pine nuts for crunch or a sprinkle of feta cheese to add a creamy, tangy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, making it perfect for next-day meals or quick lunches.
Freezing
If you want to keep leftovers longer, this dish freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken and rice on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. Cover loosely to retain moisture, and heat until warmed through, ensuring the chicken stays tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to increase the simmering time and possibly add a bit more broth. The nutty flavor of brown rice can be a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth is gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure, especially if buying store-bought broth.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes! Fresh oregano and thyme can be used in equal amounts, but add them closer to the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavors.
How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?
Searing the chicken first locks in the juices, and cooking it gently with the rice in the covered skillet helps it finish cooking perfectly without drying out.
Can I double this Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe?
Definitely! Just use a larger skillet or pan to ensure even cooking. You might need to increase the cooking time slightly, but the method and ingredients remain the same.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe is truly a wonderful go-to meal any time you want something comforting with a bright, fresh twist. I love how effortlessly the flavors come together, creating a dish that’s both impressive and easy to make. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorites to cook and share!
Print
Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
A bright and flavorful Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with fragrant herbs, garlic, and zesty lemon, all cooked together in one skillet for an easy and delicious meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Rice and Aromatics
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Flavorings
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cups chicken broth
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices and rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme to infuse them with aromatic herb flavors.
- Heat Oil & Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear each side for 5 to 6 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Using the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds to release its aroma, being careful not to burn it.
- Toast Rice: Stir the rice into the skillet with the garlic and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes, which enhances its nutty flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Add Liquids & Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth along with the lemon juice and lemon zest. Stir everything to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Chicken & Rice: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet atop the rice and liquid mixture to infuse the flavors evenly.
- Cook Covered: Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let everything cook for 18 to 20 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and the chicken to stay moist and tender.
- Finish & Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish, and optionally garnish with lemon slices and rosemary sprigs for a fresh, decorative touch.
- Serve: Serve the Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice warm for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in lemon juice and herbs before cooking.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter flavor.
- Make sure to keep the heat low during the covered cooking step to prevent rice from burning on the bottom.
- Use fresh herbs if available for more vibrant flavor.
- This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
