Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herbed Rice
Juicy chicken breasts are marinated in lemon juice, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs, then pan-seared to golden perfection. Served over fluffy herbed rice, this dish is light, aromatic, and full of fresh flavors.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings:2–3
Ingredients
For the Chicken
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
½ tsp dried oregano or thyme
Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Herbed Rice
1 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine)
2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
Lemon wedges
Fresh herbs (parsley or dill)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken breasts and coat well. Marinate for 10–15 minutes (or longer if time allows).
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Heat olive oil or butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add rice and toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.
Pour in broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Fluff with a fork and stir in fresh herbs.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add marinated chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature 75°C / 165°F).
Remove from heat and let rest for 3 minutes, then slice.
Step 4: Serve
Plate a bed of herbed rice and top with sliced lemon garlic chicken.
Garnish with lemon wedges and extra fresh herbs.
Tips
Add steamed green beans, broccoli, or roasted zucchini for extra veggies.
For more flavor, deglaze the chicken pan with a splash of broth or white wine to drizzle over the chicken.
Use brown rice or quinoa for a higher-fiber version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I prep this ahead?
Yes — cook rice and chicken separately, then reheat and serve. Lemon juice can be added fresh before serving.
Q2: Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing?
Yes — bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked.
Q3: Can I add a sauce?
A drizzle of yogurt-lemon sauce or tzatziki pairs beautifully with this dish.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 410 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 40g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2g