One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that combines simplicity, fresh flavors, and minimal cleanup, this One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe is the answer. Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with bright lemon and savory herbs, cooked together with fluffy rice that soaks up every drop of buttery, lemony goodness. Ready in just 30 minutes using just one pot, this dish makes for a perfect weeknight dinner that feels both comforting and impressive. Get ready to fall in love with this easy, aromatic meal that brings all the kitchen magic without the mess.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The charm of this One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe lies in its simple but powerful ingredients. Each item works together to build layers of flavor, ensure the perfect texture, and add a pop of freshness that makes every bite special.

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean, these cook quickly and soak up all the herbs and lemon beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that golden sear on the chicken.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Just enough to enhance and balance all the flavors.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that bring a Mediterranean flair and depth.
• 1 cup uncooked white rice: The perfect base that will absorb the flavorful broth.
• 2 ¼ cups chicken broth: Provides moisture and savory notes, low sodium is best to control saltiness.
• Juice of 1 lemon: Adds a bright, zesty tang that elevates the entire dish.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A sprinkle added with the rice for consistency in flavor.

How to Make One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

First, melt the butter over medium heat in a large skillet or pan with a lid. While the butter is melting, season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Place the chicken in the pan and brown for 1-2 minutes on each side. The goal is a nice golden sear; the chicken won’t be fully cooked at this stage but this step locks in flavor and texture and sets the stage for a delicious meal.

Step 2: Add Rice and Liquids

After browning, remove the chicken and set it aside for a moment. Without cleaning the pan (all those delicious browned bits are flavor gold), add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and the remaining teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir gently to combine. Then, place the chicken breasts right on top of the rice. Cover the pan with the lid and reduce the heat to medium-low to let everything simmer gently.

Step 3: Simmer Until Perfect

Let the whole pot cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb all the lemony, buttery broth and the chicken will finish cooking to juicy perfection. Keep an eye on the pot– the liquid should be fully absorbed by the end of cooking. If you’re cooking with bone-in or skin-on chicken, increase the browning time before adding rice and broth and ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally before serving.

How to Serve One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe

Garnishes

To make your One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe look as fabulous as it tastes, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top. A few lemon wedges on the side invite everyone to add an extra burst of bright citrus flavor. These simple touches not only add vibrant color but also enhance the fresh, herbaceous profile of the dish.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own but can be beautifully complemented with light sides like a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted asparagus. These add a nutritious, fresh crunch that balances the softness of the rice and richness of the buttery chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the chicken sliced over a bed of lemon herb rice with a drizzle of extra olive oil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. You can also layer the dish into individual oven-safe ramekins for a charming presentation that’s perfect for a dinner party. Adding a spoonful of caramelized onions or fire-roasted tomatoes can bring vibrant color and an extra layer of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you end up with leftovers (which can definitely happen with this delicious meal), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making the next day’s meal just as delightful.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! Portion the chicken and rice into airtight freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you want a quick meal, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out and cover while warming to keep the chicken tender. This quick reheat preserves the vibrant lemon herb flavors that make this dish so special.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice in this One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe?

Yes! Brown rice is a great healthier alternative, but you’ll need to increase cooking time to about 30-35 minutes and check for doneness. The flavor blends beautifully with the lemon and herbs, just keep an eye on the liquid levels.

What if I want to add vegetables to this recipe?

Vegetables like frozen peas, diced carrots, or even fire-roasted tomatoes can be added to the pot before simmering. They add color, nutrition, and extra flavor, making this dish even more of a one-pot wonder.

Can I make this recipe with bone-in or skin-on chicken?

Absolutely! Just increase the browning time to about 3-4 minutes per side, and always ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving for safety and tenderness.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. It’s a fantastic meal prep choice because it stores well in the fridge and freezer. Reheat portions quickly for a fresh-tasting, nutritious meal throughout the week.

What’s the best pan to use for this recipe?

A large skillet or sauté pan with a lid that can comfortably hold the chicken and rice in a single layer works best. The lid is essential to lock in steam and help cook the rice evenly.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe is a true kitchen hero—delivering bright, fresh flavors with minimal effort and dishes. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or welcoming friends for a casual dinner, this meal is sure to impress with its comforting yet vibrant character. I promise, once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your cooking rotation. So grab your skillet, juice the lemon, and get ready to enjoy the magic of one pot cooking!

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