This One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice is a delightful, quick meal that brings together juicy chicken and fragrant lemony rice, all cooked together in one pan. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it stands out with its simplicity and fresh flavors. In under 30 minutes, you can enjoy a comforting dish that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice
This recipe offers a host of benefits that make it a go-to choice for any home cook.
- Quick Cooking Time: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Minimal Cleanup: Using just one pan means less hassle when it comes to washing dishes.
- Flavorful & Versatile: The lemon and herb combination elevates the taste while allowing for customization with your favorite vegetables.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and flavor, this recipe supports a balanced diet without compromising taste.
- Family-Friendly: With its mild flavors, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy-based pan
- Medium bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy-based pan: Ensures even heat distribution, preventing burning and allowing the chicken to sear perfectly.
- Medium bowl: Useful for marinating chicken evenly before cooking, enhancing flavor absorption.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally to create four thinner “steaks”
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme (can be substituted with Italian mixed herbs/Italian seasoning or dried oregano)
- 1 tsp sea salt flakes
- ½ tsp cracked black pepper
- 3 tbsp olive oil
For the Rice Base
- ¼ cup (60 ml) water
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp freshly minced garlic
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1½ cups (300 g) jasmine rice
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cups (750 ml) chicken stock
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnishes
- Fresh thyme sprigs, to garnish
- Sliced lemon
- Green Leafy Salad with Balsamic Dressing
How to Make One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Place all the chicken marinade ingredients in a medium bowl. Use your hands to coat the chicken evenly. For deeper flavor, you can marinate it for up to 24 hours; however, even a quick marinade works well.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large heavy-based pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 1–2 minutes on each side until nicely seared. It should still be somewhat raw in the center. Transfer it to a plate once seared.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pan
Add the water to the same pan used for the chicken. Scrape up any sticky bits left behind as the water evaporates. Once mostly evaporated, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir for about 1–2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Add Butter and Rice
Add the butter to the pan and let it melt completely. Stir in the jasmine rice until it’s well-coated in butter.
Step 5: Combine with Liquids
Pour in the lemon juice and chicken stock. Stir everything together thoroughly. Bring it to a boil before reducing heat to low. Return the seared chicken back into the pan (it’s okay if some pieces are slightly submerged). Cover and let it cook for about 15 minutes.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once cooked, turn off the heat but leave everything covered for an additional 10 minutes. This helps all flavors meld beautifully.
Step 7: Fluff Up
Remove the chicken from the pan. Use a spoon to fluff up the rice so that any excess liquid is absorbed back into it. Return chicken pieces on top of rice, sprinkle with fresh thyme, and garnish with lemon slices.
Step 8: Serve
Serve immediately alongside a fresh green salad drizzled with balsamic dressing for a complete meal experience!
How to Serve One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice
Serving One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice is simple and flexible, allowing you to pair it with a variety of sides and garnishes. This dish not only looks appealing but also brings a burst of flavor that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Green Leafy Salad: A crisp salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette complements the savory flavors of the chicken and rice.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons offer a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
Add Extra Garnishes
- Fresh Thyme Sprigs: Sprinkling fresh thyme enhances the herbaceous notes in the dish.
- Lemon Wedges: Squeezing extra lemon over the chicken before serving brightens up the flavors.
Serve with Bread
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky taste pairs wonderfully with the chicken and rice for a comforting meal.
- Crusty Baguette: Ideal for mopping up any leftover juices on your plate.
Include a Beverage
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc can elevate your dining experience and complement the lemon flavor beautifully.
- Sparkling Water with Citrus: Refreshing and light, this beverage balances out the richness of the dish.
How to Perfect One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice
To make your One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time.
- Bold Marinade: Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Proper Searing: Ensure you sear the chicken just enough to lock in moisture while keeping it slightly raw inside for final cooking.
- Use Jasmine Rice: This type of rice absorbs flavors well and adds a fragrant quality that complements the dish.
- Check Liquid Levels: Adjust chicken stock based on how moist you like your rice; more stock creates creamier texture.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit covered after cooking helps distribute flavors evenly throughout the rice.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try different herbs like rosemary or oregano to personalize flavors according to your taste preference.
Best Side Dishes for One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice
Pairing side dishes with One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that work wonderfully together:
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and salt, asparagus becomes tender and flavorful, making it a great match.
- Grilled Zucchini: Simple yet delicious, grilled zucchini enhances your plate’s freshness while adding slight smokiness.
- Herbed Quinoa: A nutty grain that complements lemony flavors without clashing; simple to prepare alongside your main dish.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the chicken and rice.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add comfort while their garlic flavor matches beautifully with lemon herb notes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken all the way through in the first step can lead to dry meat. Sear it lightly and let it finish cooking with the rice.
- Neglecting to Deglaze the Pan: Skipping this step can mean missing out on flavor. Use water to scrape up those tasty bits before adding other ingredients.
- Not Measuring Rice and Liquid Properly: Too much or too little liquid can affect the rice texture. Stick to the recommended ratios for best results.
- Ignoring Marination Time: While you can skip marinating, letting the chicken sit in spices enhances flavor. Consider marinating for at least 30 minutes if time allows.
- Using Low-Quality Chicken Stock: The stock impacts overall taste. Choose a good quality stock or homemade version for richer flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last for 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be stored for up to 2 months.
- For best results, portion out servings before freezing.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or stock if needed, stirring until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice more flavorful?
You can add herbs like rosemary or use lemon zest for an extra citrus kick. Marinading longer also enhances its flavor.
Can I substitute jasmine rice?
Yes, you can use basmati rice or long-grain rice as alternatives, but cooking times may vary slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep since it stores well and tastes great reheated.
What side dishes pair well with One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice?
Serve with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, but adjust cooking times accordingly as bone-in chicken will take longer to cook through.
Final Thoughts
This One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs! Give it a try for your next weeknight dinner; your family will love it!
One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One-pan Lemon Herb Chicken Rice is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This flavorful dish combines succulent chicken with fragrant lemon-infused rice, all cooked together in just 30 minutes. The bright citrus notes and herbs create a refreshing yet comforting meal that appeals to the whole family. With minimal cleanup and the flexibility to customize with your favorite vegetables, this recipe is both practical and delicious. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete dining experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1½ cups jasmine rice
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cups chicken stock
- Olive oil
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp sea salt flakes
- ½ tsp cracked black pepper
- 3 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken with olive oil and spices in a bowl for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a heavy-based pan over medium-high heat and sear the marinated chicken for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked; set aside.
- Deglaze the pan with water, then add onions and garlic; sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in butter and jasmine rice until coated, then add lemon juice and chicken stock; return chicken to the pan.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Let rest covered for an additional 10 minutes before fluffing rice and serving with fresh thyme and lemon slices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pan cooking
- Cuisine: Contemporary
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 452
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 632mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 72mg
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