Let me tell you, there’s something magical about a one pot lemon herb chicken and rice dish! It’s not just about the simplicity; it’s the way all those bright, zesty flavors meld together in one cozy pot. I remember the first time I made this for my family—it was one of those busy weeknights when I needed something quick but still wanted to impress. As the chicken cooked and the rice absorbed all that delicious broth, the whole house smelled heavenly! The best part? Cleanup is a breeze since everything is cooked in one pot. Trust me, you’re going to love how easy it is to whip up this flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy days or a relaxing family dinner. It’s a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction without all the fuss!

Ingredients List

1 lb chicken thighs (skin-on and bone-in for extra flavor)
1 cup long-grain rice (this helps it cook perfectly with the chicken)
2 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought, whatever you have on hand)
1 lemon, juiced (for that bright, zesty kick)
2 tbsp olive oil (to get that lovely browning on the chicken)
1 onion, diced (adds a sweet, aromatic base)
3 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
1 tsp dried thyme (a classic herb that pairs beautifully with chicken)
1 tsp dried oregano (adds a warm, earthy depth)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skimp on seasoning; it really brings the dish together)
Fresh parsley for garnish (to brighten up your plate and add a pop of color)

How to Prepare One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Now let’s get cooking! This one pot lemon herb chicken and rice is not only delicious but also a cinch to prepare. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough to give that chicken a nice sear!
Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Oh, that aroma is just divine!
Now it’s time to season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot, skin-side down, and brown them for about 5 minutes on each side. This gives the chicken that beautiful color and flavor.
After the chicken is browned, add the rice right into the pot. Stir it around for a minute to coat it in all those lovely flavors.
Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, then sprinkle in the dried thyme and oregano. Give everything a good stir, and bring it to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This is when the rice absorbs all that rich broth.
When the time’s up, turn off the heat but let it sit, covered, for an extra 5 minutes. This helps the rice finish cooking and fluff up perfectly.
Finally, fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve it warm. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Just a single pot means minimal prep and cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of lemon, herbs, and savory chicken creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Healthy: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious option for the whole family.
Comforting: This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozying up any evening.
Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs for a personal touch!

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your one pot lemon herb chicken and rice turns out perfectly every time! First, don’t rush the browning of your chicken; that lovely color adds so much flavor to the dish. If you want to amp up the flavor even more, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless—they’re juicier! Also, feel free to adjust the herbs to suit your taste; fresh herbs can be a delightful swap if you have them on hand. Lastly, make sure to let the dish sit covered after cooking; this little resting period really helps the rice fluff up beautifully. Happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many ways to customize this one pot lemon herb chicken and rice! For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. Want to switch up the herbs? Try adding fresh rosemary or basil for a different flavor profile. You can also mix in some colorful veggies like bell peppers, peas, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and texture. And if you’re a fan of creamy dishes, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream right before serving—yum! The options are endless, so get creative!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store your delicious one pot lemon herb chicken and rice, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This way, it’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is super simple! Just pop it in the microwave until it’s warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If you prefer the stovetop, you can reheat it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems a bit dry. Always make sure it’s heated to at least 165°F (74°C) for safe eating. Enjoy those tasty leftovers!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delightful one pot lemon herb chicken and rice. Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, with 15 grams of fat, including 3 grams of saturated fat. You’ll also get around 30 grams of protein, making it a satisfying meal. The dish has about 45 grams of carbohydrates, along with 2 grams of fiber and 1 gram of sugar. Additionally, it’s important to note that it has around 600 mg of sodium. Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Enjoy your wholesome meal!

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While I love the rich flavor of thighs, chicken breasts can work just fine. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.

What can I serve with this dish?
This one pot lemon herb chicken and rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh side salad or some steamed veggies for a little extra crunch and nutrition. Check out this Greek pasta salad recipe for a perfect pairing!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare everything and store it in the fridge before cooking. When you’re ready to eat, just follow the cooking instructions, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked safely is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, make sure the juices run clear and there’s no pink meat left.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Definitely! Just let the chicken and rice cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as instructed!

One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: 7 Amazing Benefits

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A simple and flavorful one pot lemon herb chicken and rice dish.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
Season chicken with salt and pepper, add to the pot, and brown on both sides.
Add rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, thyme, and oregano.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Fluff rice with a fork and garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

Use bone-in chicken for more flavor.
Adjust herbs to your preference.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: one pot lemon herb chicken and rice

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