One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice – Quick & Tasty Recipe

One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a delicious and easy dish that brings comfort to your kitchen in just 30 minutes. The recipe combines tender chicken with flavorful lemon herb rice, all cooked together in a single pot. This not only makes cleanup a breeze, but it also ensures that the chicken absorbs all the aromatic spices, making each bite a burst of flavor. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this one-pot wonder is both simple and satisfying.

Why This One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe Works

This One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is the perfect solution for a busy day. It’s quick, full of flavor, and incredibly easy to make. The combination of tender chicken and savory rice, infused with lemon and Italian herbs, makes for a mouthwatering meal. Plus, since it’s a one-pot dish, it minimizes both cooking time and cleanup.

Ingredients

To make this One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, gather these simple ingredients:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provide a lean protein that pairs perfectly with the seasoned rice.
• Butter: Adds richness and depth of flavor to the chicken and rice.
• Salt and pepper: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and rice.
• Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs adds a fragrant, savory kick to the dish.
• White rice: The base of this recipe, soaking up all the delicious flavors as it cooks.
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and a savory base for the rice.
• Lemon juice: Provides a fresh, zesty flavor that balances the richness of the chicken and rice.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you want to modify the recipe for different tastes or dietary needs, try these substitutions:
• Brown rice: If you prefer a more nutritious option, replace white rice with brown rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to 30-35 minutes.
• Cumin and lime: For a different twist, swap out the Italian seasoning for cumin and chili powder, and replace lemon juice with lime juice for a slightly spicier flavor.
• Vegetables: Add frozen peas or carrots to the rice for extra color and nutrients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by melting butter over medium heat in a large skillet or pan with a lid.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Place the chicken in the hot butter, browning it for 1-2 minutes on each side. The chicken should not be fully cooked at this stage.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
5. In the same skillet, add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, and remaining Italian seasoning. Stir everything together.
6. Place the browned chicken breasts back into the pan on top of the rice mixture.
7. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve with extra lemon wedges for squeezing.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure to brown the chicken before adding it back to the rice to create a flavorful crust.
• If using bone-in chicken breasts, increase the browning time to 3-4 minutes per side and check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• If you prefer brown rice, adjust the cooking time to around 30-35 minutes.
• For extra flavor, try adding a can of fire-roasted tomatoes, peas, or carrots, or even red pepper flakes to the dish.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal. If you want to spice things up, you can add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the rice or mix in some chopped onions for extra sweetness.

For meal prepping, this dish makes great leftovers and can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.

Seasonal & Health Benefits

One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a versatile dish that’s great year-round. During the warmer months, it’s a light and refreshing meal, while in cooler weather, the comforting rice and savory chicken provide a satisfying meal. Additionally, this recipe is a great source of lean protein, fiber (if using brown rice), and vitamins from the lemon and herbs.

Conclusion

One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers a satisfying meal that’s full of bright lemon flavor and savory herbs. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and one pot, you can create a delicious, wholesome meal in no time. Give it a try today and enjoy the comfort of homemade cooking with minimal effort!

FAQs

More Relevant Recipes

• Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
• Country Fried Chicken
• Lemon Pepper Chicken

Print