Looking for a comforting yet bright and zesty meal that’s all done in one pot? This Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is the answer! Perfectly seasoned chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, then nestled in a bed of fluffy, herb-infused rice cooked with fresh lemon juice and zest. It’s an ideal weeknight meal that feels fancy enough for entertaining, yet easy enough to make on a busy evening.

With its simple preparation and stunning flavors, this dish combines tender chicken with fragrant rice in a way that’s sure to impress the whole family. Plus, it uses just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: No need for multiple pots and pans, so cleanup is quick and easy.
• Zesty and Flavorful: The lemon and herbs add a burst of freshness that complements the hearty chicken and rice.
• Customizable: You can switch up the herbs or add vegetables for a complete, balanced meal.
• Perfectly Balanced: The tanginess of the lemon pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery rice and savory chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Lemon Herb Rice

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• Juice of 2 lemons (about ¼ cup)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh oregano)
• ½ tsp thyme (dried or fresh)
• 1 tsp parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season and Sear the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked, as it will finish cooking with the rice. Remove the chicken and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter.
2. Sauté the diced onion for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Toast the Rice

1. Stir in the rice and cook for 1–2 minutes, letting it absorb the flavors of the butter and aromatics. This step adds a nutty depth to the rice.

4. Add Liquid and Seasonings

1. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir in the oregano, thyme, and parsley.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. Cook the Chicken and Rice Together

1. Nestle the seared chicken back into the pan on top of the rice.
2. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low.
3. Let it cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).

6. Finish and Serve

1. Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley or additional lemon zest.
3. Serve warm with your favorite sides or a fresh green salad.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest are essential for that vibrant, citrusy flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice, as it lacks freshness.
2. Toast the Rice: Taking a minute to toast the rice before adding the liquid adds a subtle nuttiness and keeps the rice fluffy.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your pan isn’t large enough, sear the chicken in batches to ensure a golden crust.
4. Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest after cooking ensures the rice absorbs all the delicious juices.

Variations to Try

• Vegetable Boost: Add chopped asparagus, green beans, or peas to the pan during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh dill, basil, or rosemary for a different herbaceous twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for heat.
• Creamy Option: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt into the rice for a creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it even further:

• Pair it with a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots.
• Add a side of crusty bread to soak up any remaining juices.

Why This Recipe Works

1. One Pan, Minimal Effort: Fewer dishes to wash and maximum flavor extracted in one cooking vessel.
2. Balanced Flavors: The zesty lemon cuts through the richness of the chicken and rice, creating a perfectly balanced dish.
3. Versatile: Great for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week.