Name: Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups cooked white rice; 1 3/4 cups chicken broth (optional, for cooking rice); 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for rice)

Bright, zesty, and full of comforting flavors, Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a meal that brings together the freshness of lemon, the earthiness of herbs, and the hearty satisfaction of tender chicken nestled over fluffy rice. This dish is as beautiful on the plate as it is satisfying to eat. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual hosting, it’s one of those go-to recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to often.

The lemony marinade not only enhances the chicken with tangy citrus flavor, but also helps keep it juicy and tender as it cooks. Meanwhile, the herbs add a depth of flavor that turns a simple dish into something vibrant and aromatic. Served on a bed of perfectly cooked herbed rice, each bite is a celebration of fresh and savory balance.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Balanced and fresh flavor: The zesty lemon combined with garlic and herbs creates a bright, savory profile.
One-pan friendly: This meal is easy to pull together with minimal cleanup.
Weeknight or weekend ready: Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends, it fits every table.
Meal-prep friendly: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it great for lunch the next day.
Naturally gluten-free: No special ingredients required!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the most out of your Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, here are the tools that will make prep smoother and the final result tastier:

Cast Iron Skillet or Oven-Safe Pan: Ensures even cooking and can go from stovetop to oven for a golden sear and finish.
Citrus Juicer or Reamer: Gets every drop of juice out of your lemons, maximizing that fresh citrus flavor.
Meat Thermometer: A must for checking the internal temperature of the chicken (aim for 165°F).
Sharp Chef’s Knife: For clean cuts when trimming the chicken or slicing herbs.
Rice Cooker or Saucepan with Lid: For fluffy, evenly cooked rice without clumping.

Ingredients for the Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Here’s what brings this dish to life. Each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor and texture:

Chicken Breasts: Lean and protein-rich, chicken breasts are perfect for absorbing the bold lemon and herb marinade.
Lemon Juice & Zest: The star flavor here! Lemon brightens up the entire dish with its citrusy tang.
Garlic Cloves: Adds depth and savory warmth that enhances every bite.
Olive Oil: Helps in marinating and cooking, keeping everything moist and flavorful.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Thyme, Rosemary): These aromatic herbs infuse the chicken with earthy, garden-fresh notes.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors.
Cooked White Rice: A fluffy, neutral base that absorbs the zesty chicken juices beautifully.
Chicken Broth (optional for rice): Use this to cook the rice for extra savory flavor.
Butter (optional): A dab melted into the rice adds a silky finish and richness.

How To Make the Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat them well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 8 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil and place the marinated chicken in the hot pan. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

While the chicken is marinating or searing, cook your rice. If using a rice cooker or saucepan, replace water with chicken broth for added flavor. Add a touch of butter and a sprinkle of herbs once cooked.

Step 4: Finish Chicken in Oven (Optional)

If your chicken is thick or you want a perfectly juicy finish, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven (375°F) for 8-10 minutes until the internal temp reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Spoon the herbed rice into bowls or plates. Slice the chicken and place on top. Garnish with extra lemon slices and a few sprigs of rosemary or parsley.

Serving and Storing Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

This Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is best served hot, right after the chicken is sliced and nestled over the warm, herbed rice. Pair it with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed asparagus for a full plate that feels both comforting and refreshing.

For storage, let everything cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. The chicken and rice will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or water to revive the moisture and flavor.

If you plan to freeze, store the rice and chicken separately to preserve texture. Use within 2 months for best taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating for 4 to 8 hours in the refrigerator deepens the flavor even more.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and tend to stay extra juicy. Just adjust cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chicken broth and other condiments are certified gluten-free, this dish is naturally gluten-free.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Just skip the butter in the rice or replace it with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or plant-based butter.

What kind of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice is ideal for fluffiness. Jasmine or basmati rice adds extra fragrance and works well too.

Do I need to finish the chicken in the oven?

Not necessarily. If your chicken breasts are thin or evenly pounded, you can cook them completely on the stovetop. The oven step ensures even cooking for thicker pieces.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, here are more hearty and flavorful recipes to keep your dinner game strong:

Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce for a creamy twist.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps that make lunch or dinner simple and irresistible.
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders for a crispy, kid-friendly favorite.
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese when you crave cheesy comfort with a kick.
Tzatziki Chicken Veggie Naan Pizza to satisfy your Mediterranean cravings.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you try fresh rosemary or go bold with chili flakes? Maybe paired it with a veggie you love?

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