There’s something magical about a One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice dish that just brings the family together. It’s probably my go-to dish when I’m in a pinch but still want to serve something satisfying and delicious. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of cooking make it an attractive option for any weeknight dinner. This recipe has been a hit in our home, especially during those busy school weeks. One time, my little one declared it “the best chicken dinner ever!” A proud mom moment for sure. For another simple one-pot meal, check out my easy crock pot chicken and rice recipe .
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Flavor-packed goodness : Lemon and herbs bring a refreshing twist to classic chicken and rice.
- Quick and easy : Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Minimal cleanup : Only one pot to wash at the end.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 ¼ cups chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Step-by-step instructions
- Melt butter over medium heat in a large skillet or pan (one that has a lid). Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Brown chicken in the butter for 1-2 minutes on each side. Transfer chicken to a plate.
- Add rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, and remaining Italian seasoning to the pan. Place chicken on top, then cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes until the liquid is dissolved.
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired and lemon wedges for squeezing. Serve immediately.
Recipe tips & variations
- Use brown rice : For a healthier version, substitute white rice with brown rice and increase the cooking time as needed.
- Add veggies : Toss in some spinach or peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
- Herb swap : Feel free to substitute Italian seasoning with herbs de Provence for a different flavor profile.
Storage & reheating
Store leftover One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave on medium heat or warm up in a covered skillet over low heat until heated through. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain the dish’s quality.
FAQs
Can I make this dish with chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs would work wonderfully and may offer a bit more flavor due to their higher fat content.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth if preferred, or even use water in a pinch, though it might slightly affect the flavor depth.
Recipes you may like
Explore more delicious chicken and rice combinations with these recipes:
- Greek chicken and rice skillet
- Comforting chicken and rice soup for cozy days
- Easy crock pot chicken and rice recipe
One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and easy one-pot dish of lemon herb chicken and rice, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons butter
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Melt butter over medium heat in a large skillet or pan (one that has a lid). Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Brown chicken in the butter for 1-2 minutes on each side. Transfer chicken to a plate.
- Add rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, and remaining Italian seasoning to the pan. Place chicken on top, then cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes until the liquid is dissolved.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired and lemon wedges for squeezing. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use brown rice: For a healthier version, substitute white rice with brown rice and increase the cooking time as needed.
- Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
- Herb swap: Feel free to substitute Italian seasoning with herbs de Provence for a different flavor profile.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or covered skillet over low heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate