why make this recipe
One Pan Lemon Chicken + Rice is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together succulent chicken thighs and flavorful rice in one easy-to-clean pan. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The bright taste of lemon adds a refreshing twist, while the garlic and herbs infuse the dish with great flavor. Plus, cooking everything in one pan means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal.
how to make One Pan Lemon Chicken + Rice
To make One Pan Lemon Chicken + Rice, you’ll need just a few simple steps. First, you get the chicken beautifully seared and then sauté the garlic and rice. Finally, everything simmers together with broth and lemon juice to create a tasty, comforting dish.
Ingredients :
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 lemon (thinly sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Directions :
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken thighs on both sides with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.
- Sear chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in the uncooked rice and toast for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, stirring gently.
- Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice. Place lemon slices on top.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 18 to 20 minutes until rice is tender and chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit internally.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, fluff the rice, and serve warm.
how to serve One Pan Lemon Chicken + Rice
Serve One Pan Lemon Chicken + Rice warm, garnished with chopped parsley. It makes a great main dish, and you can pair it with your favorite vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal. Enjoy it with family or friends for a comforting, tasty dinner.
how to store One Pan Lemon Chicken + Rice
To store leftovers, place One Pan Lemon Chicken + Rice in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
tips to make One Pan Lemon Chicken + Rice
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.
- Ensure the chicken reaches the right temperature to keep it juicy and safe to eat.
- If you want more veggies, you can add peas or bell peppers when you add the broth.
variation (if any)
You can easily customize this dish by substituting the chicken thighs with chicken breast or adding different vegetables. Green beans or carrots work well to add color and nutrition. For an herb twist, try fresh thyme or basil instead of oregano.
FAQs
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Q: Is it okay to use frozen chicken thighs?
A: It’s best to thaw the chicken before cooking for even cooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it thoroughly before serving.
