Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the savory depth of Dijon mustard. That’s why I can’t wait to share my love for Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice. Every time I prepare this dish, the aroma fills my kitchen, reminding me of family dinners where we all gathered around the table, eager to dig in. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. The tender chicken thighs, perfectly seasoned and baked to perfection, pair beautifully with fluffy rice, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice has become my go-to dish for every occasion. The tangy lemon and the sharpness of mustard make for a flavor profile that’s hard to resist. I love how this recipe is versatile enough to serve at casual get-togethers or more formal gatherings, making it a reliable choice for any host. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create something extraordinary and delicious.

This dish captures the essence of home-cooked comfort food while being easy to prepare. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a culinary expert, even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this delightful dish!

Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice Shopping List

When it comes to cooking, the ingredients play a crucial role in determining the flavor and overall quality of the dish. In Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice, each ingredient works in perfect harmony to create a delightful meal. The combination of fresh ingredients not only enhances the taste but also adds a vibrant color to your plate.

• 2 tbsp minced garlic: This adds a fragrant aroma and depth of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Used for sautéing and ensuring the chicken remains moist during cooking.
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard: The star of the show, providing a tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the lemon.
• 2 lemons zested and juiced: The zest brings an intense citrus flavor, while the juice adds acidity and brightness.
• 4 chicken thighs: Bone-in or skin-on chicken thighs work best for moisture and flavor.
• 1½ cups white rice: The base of the dish, soaking up all the delicious flavors from the chicken and sauce.
• 3 cups water or chicken broth: Adds richness to the rice and enhances the overall taste.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a lovely color to the dish.
• Lemon slices for garnish: A decorative touch that adds freshness and zesty flavor.

Directions for Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice

Let’s get cooking! Making Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice is a breeze, and the flavors will have your kitchen smelling divine. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love.

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In an ovenproof skillet or baking dish, combine 2 tbsp minced garlic, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp vegetable oil, the zest of 2 lemons, and the juice of 1 lemon. Whisk well until everything is nicely blended.
2. Add 4 chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring that each piece is coated well with the marinade. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with all those wonderful flavors.
3. Once coated, remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a plate. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it even more delicious.
4. After the chicken has marinated, use the same ovenproof skillet or baking dish to prepare the rice. Add 1½ cups white rice and 3 cups of water or chicken broth to the dish, whisking well to combine.
5. Now, return the marinated chicken to the skillet or baking dish, placing it on top of the rice. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This seasoning will create a beautiful crust as it bakes.
6. Carefully slide the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the rice has absorbed all the liquid.
7. As the dish bakes, the aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist. Trust me; it’s worth the wait!
8. In the last few minutes of baking, slice a few rounds of lemon and place them in a hot skillet. Heat on high until charred, then set aside. This will make for a lovely garnish.
9. Once done, remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute in the chicken, keeping it moist!
10. Finally, serve Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice on a platter, garnished with the charred lemon slices. Enjoy!

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, there are plenty of variations you can try with Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice. Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity.

• Skip the Rice: If you’d like to lighten things up, consider serving the chicken on a bed of mashed potatoes, quinoa, or egg noodles instead.
• Spice Things Up: For those who like some heat, add Frank’s hot sauce or your preferred hot sauce to the table.
• Garnish Ideas: Other great garnish options include chopped green onions or fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
• Broth Option: Instead of using water, substituting chicken broth will add depth to the rice and enhance its taste.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to throw in some vegetables such as peas, bell peppers, or carrots for added nutrition and taste.

What to Serve Alongside Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice

Pairing dishes can elevate your dining experience when enjoying Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice. Here are some ideas to complement this delightful recipe:

• Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as carrots, zucchini, or asparagus add color and nutrition to your meal.
• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread on the side for a delicious accompaniment to soak up the flavors.
• Fruit Compote: A fresh fruit salad or compote would provide a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken dish.
• Light Wine: For those who enjoy a drink, consider serving a light white wine that pairs nicely with lemony dishes.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice is a dish that truly shines with its vibrant flavors and easy preparation. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply enjoying a cozy night in. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it might just become a favorite in your household. With its fresh ingredients and delightful taste, it’s hard to resist!

Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice

The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Dijon Chicken and Rice combines tangy lemon and savory Dijon mustard to create an unforgettable dish. Tender chicken thighs sit atop fluffy rice, soaking up all the delicious flavors, making it the perfect easy weeknight dinner. Try it tonight!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Cast iron pan or baking dish

Ingredients

  

• 2 tbsp Minced garlic
• 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 lemons Lemon zest zested on skin
• 1 lemon Lemon juice
• 4 pieces Chicken thighs not frozen
• 1.5 cups White rice
• 3 cups Water or chicken broth
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

 

• In an ovenproof skillet or baking dish, add minced garlic, Dijon mustard, vegetable oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whisk well.
• Add chicken thighs and coat both sides well.
• Remove chicken from the pan and transfer to a plate. Cover and refrigerate raw chicken for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In the same ovenproof skillet or baking dish, add white rice and water or chicken broth. Whisk well to evenly combine.
• Add marinaded chicken back to skillet or baking dish and season generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
• Bake the casserole dish for 40 minutes or until the chicken is done and the rice no longer has any liquid. This timing can vary based on the rice type used and thickness/type of chicken. Chicken should reach 165 degrees by thermometer at its thickest point to be considered done.
• Place a few slices of lemon onto a skillet and heat on high heat until charred and use slices as a garnish.

Notes

• Tip 1: Skip the rice and serve chicken on a bed of mashed potatoes, quinoa, or egg noodles for a different twist.
• Tip 2: Spice things up by adding Frank’s hot sauce to the table.
• Tip 3: Other garnish ideas for this casserole dish include green onions and fresh parsley.
• Tip 4: Instead of water, substitute with chicken broth for a richer flavor.

Keyword comfort food recipes, Dijon Mustard Chicken, easy chicken dinner, Lemon Chicken Recipe

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Meet Bella Banks

I’m the one who makes sure we’re having fun while we work. I love the communal aspect of cooking seven friends in a kitchen can be chaotic, but it’s the best kind of chaos! I cook everything alongside the girls, and I’m often the one setting the table and making sure the “vibe” is right for our photos. I believe that any recipe, no matter how simple or complex, is a celebration.