Print

One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken Rice

One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken Rice
Print Recipe

One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken Rice is a comforting and vibrant meal featuring tender chicken infused with fresh herbs and bright lemon, cooked together with fluffy, perfectly seasoned rice. This easy and wholesome dish is ideal for busy weeknights, offering minimal cleanup and a flavorful, nourishing dinner in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 chicken thighs or breasts, rinsed and patted dry

Grains

  • 1½ cups long grain rice

Liquids

  • 3 cups chicken broth (or gluten-free chicken broth)
  • Juice of 1 fresh lemon

Produce

  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Fresh herbs: 1 tbsp thyme, parsley, or rosemary, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Fats & Oils

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Variations

  • Diced bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added vegetables
  • Crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for spice
  • Herb swaps: dill, basil, or oregano
  • Protein alternatives: turkey or shrimp

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Season the Chicken: Rinse and pat dry your chicken pieces. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a little lemon zest to infuse flavor from the start.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside to lock in juices and build a flavorful base.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Herbs: In the same pot, add minced garlic and your choice of fresh herbs. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. This step infuses the pot with aromatic goodness, preparing it for the rice.
  4. Toast the Rice: Add the rice to the pot and stir well to coat each grain with the garlicky herb oil. Toast for 2 minutes to enhance nuttiness and add depth to the dish.
  5. Add Broth and Lemon: Pour in the chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and additional lemon zest. Stir gently to combine flavors. Place the chicken pieces back on top of the rice.
  6. Simmer Until Cooked: Cover the pot with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to retain steam and moisture.
  7. Final Touch and Serve: Once cooked, let the pot rest covered for 5 minutes to meld flavors. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
  • Ensure proper searing to develop richer flavors.
  • Fresh herbs are essential for brightness and freshness.
  • Measure broth accurately to prevent soggy or dry rice.
  • Allow dish to rest off heat for perfect texture and flavor melding.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pot, lemon herb chicken, chicken rice, easy dinner, weeknight meal, healthy, gluten free, comfort food

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/one-pot-lemon-herb-chicken-rice/