One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s easy, zesty, and packed with comforting flavors, you’re going to love this One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a busy day, and best of all? It all cooks in just one pan. Seriously, how awesome is that? No fuss, no multiple dishes, just pure, simple deliciousness. Trust me, once you try this, it might just become your weeknight go-to!

this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

This One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The lemon brightens the dish, while the butter and Italian seasoning provide warmth and herbaceous notes. When you shop, look for fresh lemons and good-quality chicken broth; they’ll really lift the final dish.

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: They cook quickly and stay tender, plus they soak up flavors really well.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken for that irresistible golden crust.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors—don’t skip or skimp!
• Italian Seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs like oregano and basil that pair wonderfully with lemon and chicken.
• Uncooked White Rice: Cooks gently along with chicken broth for a tender, flavorful base.
• Chicken Broth (Low Sodium Recommended): Keeps the rice moist and adds depth; low sodium gives you better control over saltiness.
• Juice of 1 Lemon: The star ingredient for that fresh, slightly tangy pop that brightens everything.

Tweak to Your Taste

One of the things I enjoy most about this recipe is how easy it is to customize—feel free to make it yours by adding what you love or have on hand. Sometimes I add a bit of spice or sneak in extra veggies, and it never disappoints.

• Add-Ins: I’ve tossed in a can of fire-roasted tomatoes or frozen peas for color and extra flavor—you’ll love the subtle sweetness and texture they give.
• Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right heat. I like it that way, but you can leave it out if you prefer mild.
• Swap Rice Types: Brown rice works great too! Just be sure to cook it longer (around 30-35 minutes) so it softens properly.
• Onion Love: Sautéing half a finely chopped onion in butter before adding chicken always adds a lovely caramelized note I can’t resist.

Step-by-Step: How I Make One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Chicken Just Right

First, melt the butter over medium heat in a large skillet with a lid—trust me, a lid is key here. While it’s melting, season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place them in the melted butter and brown for about 1-2 minutes per side. You want a lovely golden color but the chicken should still be raw inside since it’ll finish cooking later. Don’t crowd the pan; if you have to, do this in batches. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 2: Add the Rice and Broth Mixture

Without cleaning the pan (all those tasty browned bits are flavor gold!), pour in the uncooked white rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything evenly. Then, nestle the browned chicken right on top of the rice mixture.

Step 3: Simmer and Let It Work Its Magic

Cover the skillet with a lid and lower the heat to medium-low. Let everything simmer gently for 20-25 minutes. Resist the urge to peek too often—that steam is what cooks the rice and chicken perfectly. When the liquid has absorbed, give it a quick check; your chicken should be tender, and the rice fluffy and fragrant with lemon-herb goodness.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

For the finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the top and add some lemon wedges on the side for anyone who loves a little extra zing. Serve it straight from the pan and watch it disappear fast!

How to Serve One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this dish with a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley—it adds that vibrant, herbaceous pop I crave. Sometimes I swap to cilantro for a slightly different twist. And those lemon wedges? They’re a must for anyone who likes a little brightness right when they dive in.

Side Dishes

This meal is pretty complete on its own, but if I want a little extra, I usually serve it with a simple green salad or some roasted asparagus. Lightly steamed green beans with a drizzle of olive oil also pair beautifully without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I like to plate the rice and chicken in mini cast-iron skillets or rustic bowls, garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. It makes the meal feel a little elevated but still cozy and approachable. You can also jazz it up by serving over a bed of sautéed spinach for extra color and nutrition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

When I have leftovers, I transfer them quickly into airtight containers once cooled and store them in the fridge. This One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Freezing

Freezing works like a charm for this dish. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers and it’s good for up to 3 months. When I thaw it, I make sure it’s fully defrosted in the fridge overnight to ensure even reheating and texture.

Reheating

I prefer reheating gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist. If you’re short on time, the microwave works fine—just cover it and heat in intervals, stirring in between to evenly warm everything up.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe is one of those go-to dishes that feels both special and incredibly doable. I often make it on busy weeknights when I want comfort food without the hassle, and hey—it never fails to impress my family. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it finds a special place at your table when you want a simple yet flavorful meal. Give it a try, and let me know if it becomes a family favorite like it did for me!

Print