Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet

When I think of cozy, weeknight dinners, Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet always comes to mind. This dish is a delightful blend of flavors that transports me back to childhood memories at my grandmother’s kitchen. She used to whip up something similar whenever we visited, filling the house with the tantalizing aroma of freshly cooked chicken and rice. The bright zing of lemon, paired with hearty chicken, creates a dish that’s comforting yet refreshing. After a long day, there’s just something so satisfying about a one-skillet meal, where every bite is packed with flavor and love. I love how simple it is to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weekdays or when I want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet

The beauty of the ingredients in this Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet lies in their simplicity. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a symphony of flavors. The star is undoubtedly the chicken, which absorbs the bright notes from the lemon juice and the aromatic garlic and onion. Together, they create a rich base that harmonizes perfectly with the soft, fluffy rice. Fresh parsley brightens up the dish, adding a hint of color and freshness. This dish is a wonderful reminder of how basic ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil: This forms the cooking base, adding richness and flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant aroma and depth.
• 1 onion, diced: Sweetens as it cooks, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1 lb. boneless chicken breast, diced into 1-1/2 pieces: The focal protein in the dish.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and savory depth.
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: This soaks up all the flavors as it cooks.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced: Adds freshness and color.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brings a zesty brightness to the dish.
• 1-1/2 teaspoons fine sea salt: Essential for seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a slight kick.
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional): For heat, if desired.
• Sliced lemon (optional): For garnish and additional brightness.

Making This Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet

Cooking the Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet is a delightful experience, from preparing the ingredients to savoring the dish once it’s done. With just a few simple steps, you can create a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the method!

1. Start by heating the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This sets the stage for the rest of the flavors to develop. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s time to add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté them for about 2 to 3 minutes, until they begin to soften and release their fragrant aromas. You’ll want the onions to become translucent, giving the dish a beautiful foundation.
2. Next, add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Cook it for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to ensure there’s no pink remaining on the outside. As the chicken cooks, it will soak up those delicious garlic and onion flavors, creating a savory base.
3. Once the chicken is cooked through, it’s time to add the magic ingredients. Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the long-grain white rice, minced parsley, lemon juice, sea salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and if you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir everything to combine well. You want to ensure that the rice is evenly distributed in the liquid.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Place the sliced lemon on top of the rice for an added citrus punch and cover the skillet tightly. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb all the flavorful broth, and you’ll end up with a fluffy texture.
5. After 30 minutes, check to see if the rice is tender and if all the broth has been absorbed. The chicken should be moist and flavorful. If the rice is still firm, cover it again and let it cook for a few more minutes.
6. Once everything is cooked perfectly, remove the skillet from the heat. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, mixing in the chicken and the parsley that was previously added. This will ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
7. Serve the Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet hot, garnished with additional parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. The bright lemon slices not only add beauty but enhance the presentation. Enjoy every bite!

Customization Ideas

The great thing about the Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet is its versatility. You can easily make it your own with a few tweaks! Here are some ideas to customize your dish:

• Add vegetables: Incorporate your favorite veggies such as peas or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Use brown rice: If you prefer a healthier option, substitute with brown rice, though cooking time may vary.
• Try different proteins: Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful variation.
• Herb additions: Experiment with herbs like thyme or dill to give your skillet a unique flavor.
• Spicy twist: Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

What to Serve Alongside Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet

The Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can take your dinner to the next level. Here are some ideas:

• Simple side salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully.
• Garlic bread: Serve some warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious flavors.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots and zucchini provide a lovely contrast in textures.
• Steamed asparagus or green beans: These add a nice crunch and vibrancy to your plate.
• Lemon wedges: A few wedges of fresh lemon can be served on the side for extra zest.
• Perfect for gatherings: This dish is great for casual family dinners, potlucks, or even meal preps for the week.
• Seasonal pairings: In the summer, serve with a cold cucumber salad; in the winter, a warm bread pudding complements it nicely.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet is a harmonious blend of flavors that will surely become a favorite in your household. Its simplicity and vibrant taste make it the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight meal or a gathering with friends. I invite you to give it a try and experience the warmth and joy it brings to the table.

Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet

The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken and fluffy rice. Bright notes of lemon elevate this easy weeknight dinner, making it a family favorite. Ready in a flash, it's the perfect choice for a cozy night in!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 lb. boneless chicken breast, diced into 1-1/2 pieces
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1-1/2 teaspoons fine sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• sliced lemon (optional)

Instructions

 

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. One hot add garlic and onion and cook until beginning to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add in chicken and cook until no pink remains on the outside, about 3-5 minutes.
• Add in chicken broth, rice, parsley, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, pepper flakes and stir to combine.
• Bring to a boil then reduce heat to the lowest setting. Add sliced lemon on top of rice, cover, and let simmer for 30 minutes or until rice is fluffy and no broth is left.
• Serve with additional pepper, red pepper flakes, and parsley.

Notes

• Tip 1: Want to make this with cauliflower rice or cooked rice? You could try to omit the added broth here, and just sauté until the rice is warmed through. It would basically turn into more of a stir-fry!

Keyword easy chicken dinner, Lemon Chicken Skillet, One Pot Chicken Recipe, quick rice dish

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.