Looking for a simple yet tasty dinner? Dive into my One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe! This dish combines juicy chicken thighs, fluffy jasmine rice, and zesty lemon, all cooked in one pan. It’s a delightful meal that cuts down on cleanup. You’ll impress your family and have dinner ready in no time! Let’s get started on this easy and delicious recipe.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
The main ingredients in this dish create a bright and fresh flavor. Chicken thighs are juicy and tender, making them perfect for this one-pan meal. Jasmine rice adds a light, fragrant base that absorbs all the tasty broth. The onion and garlic provide a savory depth, while the lemon gives a zesty twist that brightens everything up.
Seasonings
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Seasonings elevate this dish. Olive oil helps to crisp the chicken and adds richness. Dried oregano and thyme give an earthy taste that pairs well with the lemon. Salt and pepper bring all the flavors together, enhancing each bite.
Optional Ingredients
– 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
– Fresh parsley sprigs for garnish
Adding green peas brings a pop of color and sweetness. They also add nutrients and fiber to the dish. Fresh parsley is optional but recommended. It adds a fresh note and makes the dish look beautiful and inviting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
– Seasoning the chicken thighs
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs. Use salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Make sure to cover both sides well. This adds great flavor to the chicken.
– Searing the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs. Sear them for 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden crust before removing them from the pan.
Cooking the Base
– Sautéing onion and garlic
In the same pan, add finely chopped onion. Sauté for about three minutes until the onion is soft. Then, add minced garlic and cook for one more minute. The garlic should smell great!
– Adding rice and toasting
Now, add jasmine rice to the pan. Stir the rice to coat it with the onion and garlic. Toast the rice for one to two minutes. This step gives the rice a tasty flavor.
Combining Ingredients
– Pouring in the chicken broth
Carefully pour in the chicken broth. Then add lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir everything well to mix the flavors.
– Reintroducing the chicken and simmering
Place the seared chicken thighs back in the pan. Make sure the skin side is facing up. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and the chicken is fully cooked.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Chicken
To make the chicken shine, you need a golden crust. Start with dry chicken thighs. Pat them with a paper towel. This helps the skin get crispy. Season them well with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. When the oil is hot, place the chicken in the pan. Cook it for 6 to 7 minutes on each side. This gives a nice, brown color.
To check if the chicken is ready, use a meat thermometer. The center must reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures it is safe to eat and juicy.
Fluffy Rice
To get fluffy rice, rinse it under cold water first. This helps remove excess starch. If you want to avoid sticky rice, use a 1:2 ratio of rice to broth. For jasmine rice, this ratio works great. It makes the rice light and fluffy.
If you use brown rice, you may need more liquid and cooking time. Adjust the broth to 2.5 cups for brown rice. This makes sure it cooks properly.
Flavor Enhancements
Feel free to switch up the herbs. Instead of oregano and thyme, try rosemary or dill. These herbs can change the dish’s taste. If you want some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This adds a spicy kick and wakes up the flavors.
Lemon is also key here. Add more zest or juice for an extra tangy taste. A little extra lemon can brighten the whole dish.
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can change the chicken thighs to chicken breasts. This option makes the dish leaner. Chicken breasts cook faster, so check them sooner. You can also try fish like salmon or cod. Fish cooks quickly and adds a nice flavor. Tofu is another great choice for a vegetarian meal. It absorbs flavors well and is a good protein source.
Rice Substitutions
If you want a change, use quinoa or brown rice instead of jasmine rice. Quinoa cooks faster and has a nutty flavor. Brown rice is heartier and adds fiber. For added taste, use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. This will give the rice a richer flavor.
Vegetable Add-ins
Adding seasonal veggies can make this dish even better. Think about bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. They add color and more nutrients. Spinach is a great choice too; it cooks down well. Asparagus also pairs nicely with the lemon and herbs. Just chop them up and toss them in with the rice.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
To keep your One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing. This helps prevent moisture build-up. In the fridge, your leftovers will last for about three to four days. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze this dish for later enjoyment. First, let it cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label each bag with the date. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Reheat in short bursts, stirring often to ensure even warming. Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Meal Prep Suggestions
For easy meals, portion the chicken and rice into individual servings. This way, you can grab them quickly during busy days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth for moisture. This keeps the rice fluffy. Serve with a fresh side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal. Enjoy the zesty flavor even on a busy night!
FAQs
How to make One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?
To make One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, start by heating olive oil in a large skillet. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Sear them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pan, add chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes. Then, stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Next, add jasmine rice to the pan and toast it for 1-2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Place the chicken back in the pan, skin-side up, and bring to a simmer. Cover the pan and cook on low for 15-20 minutes. In the last five minutes, add green peas. Fluff the rice and adjust seasoning before serving.
What can I serve with One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?
You can serve One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice with a variety of sides. Here are some great options:
– Steamed broccoli: This adds color and nutrition.
– Mixed green salad: A light salad balances the meal.
– Roasted vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers work well.
– Garlic bread: For a comforting touch.
– Cucumber salad: Refreshing and crisp, it pairs nicely.
Feel free to mix and match based on your taste!
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice in advance. Here are some meal prep tips:
– Cook the dish fully: Let it cool, then store in an airtight container.
– Refrigerate: It lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge.
– Freeze: You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
– Reheat: Warm it on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist.
By planning ahead, you can enjoy this dish anytime!
This blog post covered how to make One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. We explored the main ingredients, seasonings, and helpful tips for success. I shared variations for protein and rice, plus storage info to keep meals fresh.
In the end, this dish is easy and fun to make. You can change it to suit your taste, making it a perfect fit for any meal. Enjoy cooking this tasty meal and savor every bite!
