Simple Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice

Simple Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice

Clean and simple one-pan chicken dinner with fragrant herbs and fluffy rice, delivering 32g of protein per serving in just 30 minutes.

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Prep

10m

👥
Serves

4

LevelEasy
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Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1.5 cups jasmine rice, rinsed
  • 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 lemons, juiced and zested
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
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Instructions

  1. 1

    Season Chicken

    Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Let rest for 5 minutes while preparing other ingredients.

  2. 2

    Sear Chicken

    Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

  3. 3

    Sauté Aromatics

    In the same pan, add remaining oil and sauté diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

  4. 4

    Add Rice and Liquid

    Add rinsed rice to the pan and stir to coat with the aromatics. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well to combine.

  5. 5

    Combine and Simmer

    Return seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes.

  6. 6

    Rest and Serve

    Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Check that chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature. Fluff rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

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Chef's Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. If rice seems dry, add an extra 1/4 cup of broth.

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Nutrition Facts

Calories385
Protein32g
Carbs38g
Fat12g
Fiber2g
Sugar3g

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about making this simple lemon herb chicken with rice

How long does it take to make Simple Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice?

This recipe takes 35 minutes total time, including 10 minutes prep time and 25 minutes cooking time.

How many servings does this Simple Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice recipe make?

This recipe yields 4 servings.

What is the difficulty level of this Simple Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice recipe?

This recipe is rated as Easy difficulty level, making it perfect for beginners.

Can I make substitutions in this Simple Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice recipe?

Yes, you can make substitutions, but they may affect the final result. Common substitutions include using different types of ingredients for dietary restrictions or personal preferences.

Can I make this simple lemon herb chicken with rice ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this simple lemon herb chicken with rice up to 1 day ahead. Assemble the dish completely, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if needed.

How do I store leftover simple lemon herb chicken with rice?

Store leftover simple lemon herb chicken with rice covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

What side dishes go well with simple lemon herb chicken with rice?

This simple lemon herb chicken with rice pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a protein of your choice.

Can I freeze simple lemon herb chicken with rice?

Yes, this simple lemon herb chicken with rice freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.