One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken Rice

Quick Benefit

The One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken Rice is a flavorful, no-fuss meal perfect for busy weeknights. It combines protein, carbs, and zesty herbs in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup while maximizing taste. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a satisfying, wholesome dish the whole family will enjoy.

Essential Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

For the Rice:

• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 ¼ cups low sodium chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Optional garnishes: fresh parsley or cilantro, lemon wedges.

Preparation Steps

1. Sear the Chicken:
   In a large skillet with a lid, melt the butter over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Brown each side for 1-2 minutes (no need to cook through). Transfer to a plate.
2. Cook the Rice:
   Without cleaning the pan, add rice, broth, lemon juice, and the remaining seasoning. Stir to combine. Place chicken back on top of the rice.
3. Simmer:
   Cover the pan and simmer over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
4. Garnish & Serve:
   Top with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Serve hot and enjoy!

Health Benefits

• Lean Protein: Chicken breast is high in protein and low in fat, supporting muscle repair and growth.
• Heart-Healthy Ingredients: Using low-sodium broth and olive oil or butter in moderation keeps the dish heart-friendly.
• Whole Ingredients: Rice, lemon, and herbs are minimally processed, making this a clean-eating friendly recipe.
• Customizable Add-Ins: You can easily include veggies like peas or carrots to boost fiber and vitamins.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for a creamy, tangy twist.
• Serve with warm pita or crusty bread to soak up the lemony juices.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño.
• Mediterranean Flair: Stir in olives, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in spinach, frozen peas, or fire-roasted tomatoes.
• Rice Swap: Use quinoa or brown rice—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth to bring back moisture.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Great for batch cooking—just portion into containers for easy lunches.

Pro Tips

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the chicken space to brown properly for the best flavor.
• Check for Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature of chicken hits 165°F before serving.
• Zest First, Then Juice: If you want an extra lemon punch, zest the lemon before squeezing the juice.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit covered for 5 minutes to lock in moisture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Thighs add more flavor and stay juicy—just adjust cooking time as needed.

Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: Absolutely. Increase the simmer time to 30–35 minutes, checking around the 30-minute mark.

Q: How can I make it dairy-free?
A: Swap butter for olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

Q: Is it gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as your broth is gluten-free, the whole dish is naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Definitely. Use a larger pan and ensure everything is evenly spread for consistent cooking.

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