One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a bright, comforting, and flavorful dish that combines juicy, tender chicken with perfectly cooked rice infused with citrus and herbs—all made in a single pan. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that looks and tastes like a gourmet meal, with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Everything cooks in one pot—easy cleanup
• Juicy, seasoned chicken and fluffy rice in one dish
• Infused with lemony, herbaceous flavor
• Family-friendly and comforting
• Ready in under an hour
• Naturally gluten-free
• Budget-friendly ingredients
• Perfect for meal prep
• Balanced meal with protein and carbs
• Great for both casual dinners and entertaining

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Long grain white rice (like jasmine or basmati)
• Chicken broth or stock
• Olive oil
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon juice and zest
• Fresh or dried herbs (thyme, parsley, oregano)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika (optional)
• Fresh parsley or lemon slices for garnish

Directions

this recipe

1. Season the chicken: Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
2. Sear the chicken: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
4. Add rice and broth: Stir in rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and herbs. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return chicken to pot: Nestle the chicken into the rice mixture. Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Cook for 18–22 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
6. Rest and serve: Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff rice and garnish with fresh parsley or lemon slices before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use brown rice (increase cooking time and liquid accordingly)
• Add spinach, peas, or green beans for extra veggies
• Swap herbs with Italian seasoning or fresh dill
• Add a dash of white wine for depth
• Top with crumbled feta or grated parmesan for extra richness
• Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for more flavor (adjust cooking time)

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months, though rice texture may change slightly upon reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, just be careful not to overcook as breasts are leaner and can dry out more easily.

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but increase the cooking time to about 40–45 minutes and add more liquid.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

What’s the best type of rice to use?

Long grain white rice like jasmine or basmati works best for texture and even cooking.

Can I make this dairy-free?

The recipe is naturally dairy-free as written.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your broth is certified gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely—spinach, peas, or chopped zucchini can be stirred in during the last few minutes.

What herbs work best?

Fresh or dried thyme, parsley, oregano, rosemary, or a mix of Italian herbs all complement the lemon well.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

It’s not recommended as the rice absorbs the broth and flavor during cooking.

How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne to the seasoning blend.

Conclusion

One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a flavorful, fuss-free meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. With tender chicken, fluffy lemon-infused rice, and fresh herbs, it’s a comforting classic with a bright twist. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners, this dish will quickly earn a regular spot in your recipe rotation.

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