One-Pot Lemon & Herb Chicken and Rice
Table of Contents
Right then, let's get this show on the road! fancy a one pot chicken and rice dish that's proper lush and doesn't leave you with a mountain of washing up? honestly, who doesn't? this recipe is a game changer, trust me.
Why This One-Pot Chicken and Rice Rocks
This isn't just any chicken and rice. think sunshine on a plate with our lemon herb chicken and rice. it's a weeknight chicken and rice winner, packed with zesty lemon and comforting herbs.
We are also thinking of a health dinner packed with flavor.
This recipe originates from the need for simple, comforting meals. it’s a celebration of easy cooking. this one-pot wonder is super easy.
It takes about 55 minutes from start to finish. it serves four hungry souls.
Health Dinner Recipes Galore...But This One's Special
You know what makes this simple chicken rice recipe so good? it is naturally gluten-free dinner and packed with flavour.
Chicken and rice is a solid combo, plus the lemon and herbs? bangin'.
Alright, enough chat! let’s dive into the good stuff the ingredients. after having a good cuppa and a think, here are the we'll use, balancing what you gave me with some spiffing new ones to give your site a proper boost.
Right then, let's get this show on the road! making this one pot chicken and rice is easier than putting the kettle on.
After having a good cuppa and a think, i've got the lowdown on what you'll need. this isn't just any simple chicken rice recipe , it's proper comfort food, ready in under an hour.
Plus, it can be a gluten-free dinner , using the right broth of course.
Ingredients Sorted!
This easy chicken and rice recipe relies on a few key bits. We're going for maximum flavour with minimum fuss.
Main Bits: Chicken & Rice
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Use a good quality one. Extra virgin's grand.
- Chicken thighs: 4 (around 600g / 21 oz) , cut into bite sized bits. Thighs are juicier than breast, honestly.
- Onion: 1 medium (150g / 5 oz) , chopped. Yellow or white, whatever you've got.
- Garlic: 2 cloves (6g / 0.2 oz) , minced. Don't be shy with it.
- Long grain rice: 1 cup (200g / 7 oz) , rinsed. This avoids sticky rice, no one wants that. Basmati works too if you're after something a bit fancy, its gluten-free Rice.
- Chicken broth: 2 cups (475ml / 16 fl oz) . Low sodium is a good shout. Stock cubes are fine too.
- Lemon: 1 , zest and juice. Essential for that lemon herb chicken and rice zing.
- Parsley: 1/4 cup (15g / 0.5 oz) , chopped. Fresh is best, but dried will do in a pinch.
- Frozen peas: 1/2 cup (80g / 2.8 oz) , optional. For a bit of green goodness.
Seasoning Notes: Oomph It Up
For this Weeknight Chicken and Rice , it's all about the flavour bomb! The herbs are the key for healthy dinner recipes
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon (2g / 0.07 oz) , dried. Proper classic.
- Rosemary: 1 teaspoon (2g / 0.07 oz) , dried. Adds a lovely woody note.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (3g / 0.1 oz) . Adjust to taste, of course.
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1g / 0.04 oz) . Freshly ground is always better.
No thyme or rosemary? Mixed herbs work brilliantly. A dash of garlic powder adds a bit of a boost too!
Equipment Needed: No Fancy Bits
You don't need loads of kit for this one pot chicken dinner .
- Big pot or Dutch oven: This is your workhorse.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Get the ratios right!
- Chopping board and knife: For prepping the veg and chicken.
- Lemon zester: A microplane works wonders.
Don't have a zester? use a vegetable peeler for strips and then chop them finely. a regular saucepan will do if you haven't got a dutch oven.
Honestly, my first time i made this chicken and rice one pan, my pot wasn't that big, it still works!
So, there you have it! All the bits and bobs you'll need for this health dinner . Let's get cooking!
Alright then, let's get this show on the road! fancy a one pot chicken and rice that's proper lush and doesn't leave you with a mountain of washing up? this recipe is a lifesaver.
Honestly, after a long day, the last thing i want is loads of faff. this easy chicken and rice recipe is my go-to for a tasty, hassle free weeknight chicken and rice dinner.
Plus, it's easily adaptable for a gluten-free dinner , using ingredients you probably already have. it is a perfect health dinner meal, but also a very healthy one, that kids will gobble down.
One-Pot Lemon & Herb Chicken and Rice: The Ultimate Comfort Food
This ain't just any chicken and rice one pan meal, this is special . the lemon and herbs brighten everything up, making it feel fresh and flavourful.
And trust me, the rice cooks up perfectly, soaking in all the lovely chicken juices. makes it perfect for those days you’re looking for a simple chicken rice recipe.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
Essential mise en place: before you even think about turning on the hob, get everything prepped. chop 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic .
Cut 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1 inch pieces. zest and juice 1 lemon . measure out your 1 cup of long grain rice , 2 cups of chicken broth , and spices.
Chop 1/4 cup fresh parsley . right?, that’s all, super easy. don’t you think? .
Time saving organization tips: Chop your veg while the kettle boils for your cuppa. Pre-measure your spices into a small bowl.
Safety reminders: Wash your hands after handling raw chicken! Always use a clean cutting board.
From Hob to Heaven: The step-by-step
- Sauté the Basics: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes . Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute , until fragrant.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes .
- Rice and Broth Time: Stir in the rinsed rice, chicken broth, lemon zest and juice, 1 teaspoon dried thyme , 1 teaspoon dried rosemary , 1/2 teaspoon salt , and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper . Give it a good mix.
- Simmer Away: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 20 minutes , or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Don't peek!
- Rest and Revel: Remove from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5- 10 minutes to steam. Fluff with a fork and then Stir in 1/2 cup frozen peas .
- Garnish and Gobble: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for a Proper Feast
Expert techniques: Rinse your rice! It makes all the difference.
Common mistakes: Lifting the lid! Seriously, don't do it. Trust the process.
make-ahead options: You can chop the veg and measure out the spices a day ahead. Store them in separate containers in the fridge.
This lemon herb chicken and rice recipe is a cracking gluten-free rice dish and a brilliant one pot chicken dinner option.
Right then, let's get this show on the road! fancy whipping up a one pot chicken and rice that's proper tasty and easy as pie? after having a good cuppa and a think, i've added a few notes to make sure yours is spot on.
Here's the lowdown to get the most out of this simple chicken rice recipe .
Recipe Notes: Getting it Just Right
This easy chicken and rice recipe is pretty straightforward. But a few tweaks can make all the difference between alright and amazing .
Serving Suggestions: Posh Nosh or Casual Grub?
Presentation, eh? honestly, this weeknight chicken and rice tastes banging straight from the pot. but if you’re feeling fancy, plating it up nicely makes it even better.
Think a swirl of parsley, a lemon wedge, and a side of steamed greens. for sides? a simple green salad works wonders.
Or, if you're feeling more adventurous, some roasted veg. a dollop of natural yoghurt is lovely too. pairs really well.
Storage Tips: No Waste, Just Taste
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This chicken and rice one pan wonder keeps well.
- Fridge: Pop it in an airtight container and it'll be good for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freezes pretty well for up to 2 months. Defrost it fully before reheating.
- Reheating: Microwave it or warm it up in a pan with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Variations: Mix it Up, Buttercup!
This lemon herb chicken and rice is great as it is, but why not put your own spin on it?
- gluten-free Dinner ? Easy peasy! Just make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free. Most are, but always double check! Use gluten-free Rice .
- Health Dinner ? Load it up with extra veggies! Peppers, courgette, you name it. The more, the merrier!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
Look, i’m no nutritionist, but this is a health dinner ! it's packed with protein from the chicken, carbs from the rice, and vitamins from the lemon and herbs.
It's a balanced health dinner recipes . each serving has roughly 420 calories. it's a decent source of protein and energy, perfect for one pot chicken dinner .
Honestly, this one pot chicken and rice is so straightforward, even i can't mess it up. get stuck in, have a laugh, and don't worry about being perfect.
The best meals are made with love, not rules. enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this one pot chicken and rice recipe?
You can, but be warned, it'll be a bit like swapping a Sunday roast for a beige buffet! Chicken thighs are much more forgiving and stay lovely and moist during the cooking process. Chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily in one-pot dishes.
If you do use breasts, consider cutting them into larger chunks and checking for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recipe suggests.
My rice is always sticky! How do I avoid that when making one pot chicken and rice?
Sticky rice can be a right pain, can't it? Rinsing the rice thoroughly before adding it to the pot is key. This washes away excess starch that causes stickiness. Also, make sure you're using the correct rice-to-liquid ratio, and resist the urge to lift the lid while it's simmering it releases steam, messing with the cooking process.
Let it rest covered for a few minutes after cooking too; that helps steam the rice to perfection.
Can I add vegetables to this one pot chicken and rice? What veggies work best?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a brilliant way to sneak in some extra nutrients. Hearty vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers work really well as they can withstand the cooking time. Add them to the pot along with the onions and garlic at the beginning.
For quicker cooking veggies like frozen peas or broccoli florets, stir them in during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, just before you let the rice rest, same as the recipe says!
How should I store leftover one pot chicken and rice, and how long will it last?
Leftovers are perfect for a quick lunch, aren't they? Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it down quickly before refrigerating to prevent any nasties from growing.
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
Is one pot chicken and rice healthy? What's the nutritional breakdown?
This dish can absolutely be part of a healthy diet! It provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and some healthy fats. It's always a good starting point to reduce sodium levels and incorporate frozen peas/other vegetables into the recipe!
Also, remember that the exact nutritional content will depend on your ingredients and portion sizes. Consult a nutritionist for personal requirements.
One Pot Lemon Herb Chicken And Rice
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 420 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 30g |