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Lemon Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe

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3.9 from 8 reviews

This Lemon Parmesan Chicken and Rice recipe is a delightful one-pan meal combining tender sautéed chicken, aromatic herbs, tangy lemon zest and juice, and creamy Parmesan cheese. Cooked together with long grain white rice in chicken broth, it delivers a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner in just 45 minutes.

Ingredients

Protein & Vegetables

  • lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
  • ½ cup diced onion
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Liquids & Broth

  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

Grains & Seasonings

  • 1 cup long grain white rice, dry (rinsed)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Flavor Enhancers

  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • ¼ cup lemon juice
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat and Sauté Chicken: Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Add the cubed chicken and sauté for 9-10 minutes until the edges start to brown, keeping in mind the chicken will finish cooking later with the rice.
  2. Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan with the chicken. Continue cooking and stirring for an additional 5 minutes to soften the onion and release flavors.
  3. Add Broth, Rice, and Seasonings: Stir in the chicken broth, rinsed rice, dried basil, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together, cover the pan, and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking. For faster cooking, warm the broth before adding.
  4. Incorporate Lemon and Cheese: After the rice has cooked for 10 minutes and absorbed most of the liquid, add lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese to the pan. Stir well and cook uncovered for another 2 minutes to blend flavors and slightly thicken the mixture.
  5. Serve: Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired for an extra cheesy touch.

Notes

  • Warming the chicken broth before adding can speed up the cooking process and help the rice cook more evenly.
  • Using low sodium chicken broth helps control the salt content, but adjust seasoning to taste.
  • You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier texture.
  • For a creamier dish, consider stirring in a tablespoon of butter or cream at the end.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.