Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice Recipe

Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice Recipe: A Flavorful One-Pot Meal

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If you’re looking for an easy yet delicious meal that brings comfort and bold flavors to the table, this Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice recipe is just what you need. With juicy, golden-browned chicken thighs nestled in fragrant, lemon-infused rice, this dish is a perfect blend of zestiness, savoriness, and warmth. It’s a great option for busy weeknights, a delightful summer meal, or even a crowd-pleaser for weekend gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pot Convenience – Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
  • Perfect Balance of Flavors – A zesty lemon twist paired with garlic and aromatic herbs.
  • Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh and flavorful when reheated.
  • Customizable – Easily adjust the spices or add vegetables for variety.

Quick Facts

  • Preparation Time: PT15M
  • Cooking Time: PT1H
  • Total Time: PT1H15M
  • Type: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
  • Recipe Yield: 4 servings
  • Calories: Approximately 450 per serving

What You’ll Need

Ingredients:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice, rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 lemon, juice and zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)

Let’s Make It!

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and thyme.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  3. Sear the chicken skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

  1. In the same pan, add another 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  2. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well to deglaze the pan.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

  1. Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
  2. Cover the pan with a lid or foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35 minutes.
  3. Remove the lid, and bake for another 10 minutes to crisp up the skin.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

  1. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Variations & Tips

  • Make it Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes for a fiery touch.
  • Vegetable Boost: Stir in peas, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrients.
  • Use Boneless Chicken: If using boneless thighs, reduce baking time to 25 minutes.
  • Dairy-Free Option: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but you can add a touch of butter for extra richness.
  • Rice Alternative: Swap basmati rice with quinoa or brown rice (adjust liquid and cooking time accordingly).

FAQs

1. How to make Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice extra flavorful?

Marinate the chicken with lemon juice, garlic, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances the flavors and makes the chicken even more tender.

2. Can I substitute chicken breasts for thighs?

Yes, but keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster. Reduce the oven time by 5-7 minutes to avoid dryness.

3. What’s the best rice for this recipe?

Basmati or jasmine rice works best as they absorb flavors well without becoming mushy.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.

5. What to serve with Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice?

This dish pairs well with a light cucumber salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of warm pita bread.

Wrapping It Up

This Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer and beyond. With tender, juicy chicken and fragrant, citrusy rice, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal for any day of the week. Try it out and let us know how it turned out in the comments! For more delicious recipes, subscribe to our newsletter or check out our other one-pot meal ideas. Happy cooking!

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