Lemon Herb Chicken Rice - A Flavor-Packed One-Pot Meal
Prep time: 35mins | 4 Servings
If you’re looking for a comforting yet refreshing dish that combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs with fluffy rice, then lemon herb chicken rice is the recipe you need. This dish is a perfect weeknight dinner quick, simple, and easy to make with flavor. Best of all, it requires minimal cleanup since it can be made in just one pot.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, cooking for your family, or simply craving something wholesome, this recipe will become a go-to favorite. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making lemon herb chicken rice, from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to variations, tips, and nutritional benefits.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Herb Chicken Rice
There are countless chicken and rice recipes out there, but what makes this one stand out?
Bright flavors: The combination of lemon juice, zest, and herbs brings a refreshing twist.
Balanced meal: Protein from chicken, carbs from rice, and vitamins from herbs and lemon.
One-pot convenience: Cook everything together for easy prep and cleanup.
Family-friendly: Mild yet flavorful, making it perfect for both kids and adults.
Meal-prep ready: Stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients.
Main Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
3 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1 tablespoon fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
Spinach or kale for extra greens
Cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness
Crumbled feta for a Mediterranean touch
Directions
Follow these easy steps to create the perfect lemon herb chicken rice:
Season and Sear the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried herbs.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven.
Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown (about 4–5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics
In the same pan, sauté onion until soft and translucent.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the Rice
Stir in rice, coating it with the oil and aromatics for extra flavor.
Deglaze with Lemon and Broth
Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest.
Stir in herbs, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
Combine and Simmer
Nestle the seared chicken back into the pot.
Cover and cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes, until rice is fluffy and chicken is fully cooked.
Finish and Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Tips for the Best Lemon Herb Chicken Rice
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat.
- Toast the rice with onions and garlic before adding liquid for a nutty depth.
- Fresh herbs make a big difference, but dried ones work if that’s what you have.
- Don’t skip the zest—it adds brightness that balances the richness of the chicken.
- Add vegetables like zucchini, peas, or carrots to make it a complete one-pot meal.
Variations to Try
- Mediterranean Style: Add kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
- Brown Rice Alternative: Swap white rice for brown rice; increase the cooking time and broth slightly.
Nutrition Facts
*Per serving (1 bowl)
- Calories410 kcal
- Protein28 g
- Carbohydrates45 g
- Fat12 g
- Saturated Fat2 g
- Cholesterol85 mg
- Sodium620 mg
- Fiber3 g
- Sugar2 g
FAQ's on Lemon Herb Chicken Rice
Q1. Can I make lemon herb chicken rice ahead of time?
Yes! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply reheat in a pan or microwave with a splash of broth to keep the rice moist.
Q2. Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q3. What herbs work best?
Parsley, thyme, and oregano are classic choices, but rosemary and basil also pair beautifully.
Q4. Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
Yes, quinoa makes a protein-rich substitute. Adjust cooking time since quinoa cooks faster than rice.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a wholesome, flavorful dish that combines citrusy brightness with hearty comfort, lemon herb chicken rice is a recipe you’ll return to again and again. It’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests.
So, grab your skillet, fresh lemons, and a handful of herbs, and give this recipe a try today. Your kitchen will be filled with irresistible aromas, and your family will thank you for a meal that’s both delicious and nourishing.
