Lemon Butter Chicken With Rice

Name: Lemon Butter Chicken With Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food

I absolutely love making Lemon Butter Chicken With Rice because it brings a burst of flavor to our dinner table that’s hard to resist. The combination of tender chicken slowly cooked in a creamy lemon butter sauce, served over fluffy rice is simply divine. I often find myself coming back to this recipe on busy weeknights or special occasions when I want something comforting yet impressive. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen while it cooks is an added bonus that makes my mouth water in anticipation!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:20:37.059Z

When I first tried Lemon Butter Chicken, I was amazed at how the simple combination of butter and lemon transformed the dish into something remarkable. The dish has become a favorite in my household, and I love experimenting with variations, like adding fresh herbs or vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. One tip I’ve learned is to let the chicken marinate in the lemon juice for a bit before cooking—it really elevates the dish!

As I perfected the recipe over time, I discovered that serving it with rice not only soaks up the rich sauce but also balances the acidity of the lemon beautifully. Each time I prepare this meal, I can't help but feel satisfied knowing that I’m serving my loved ones a hearty and delicious dish that is simple to make and full of flavor.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tangy lemon flavor that elevates every bite
Creamy butter sauce that perfectly complements the rice
Quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze

      

Mastering the Cooking Technique

The key to achieving tender and juicy chicken breasts lies in the cooking method. Searing the chicken in a hot skillet allows for a caramelized outer layer, which enhances flavor. Make sure the skillet is preheated before adding the chicken to avoid steaming, as this can result in a dry texture. A medium-high heat works best for achieving that golden-brown color, typically around 375°F (190°C). After searing, keep the chicken aside while you prepare the sauce—this resting period helps retain its juices.

Once the sauce is simmering, returning the chicken to the skillet allows it to absorb the vibrant lemon and garlic flavors. Make sure to cover the skillet while it simmers; this traps moisture, ensuring that both the rice and chicken are cooked evenly. The rice should appear tender and fluffy after about 20 minutes. If you find that the rice isn’t fully cooked, simply add a splash of extra chicken broth or water and continue simmering until done.

Ingredient Insights

Using unsalted butter in this recipe is crucial because it allows you to control the sodium content. Once the meal is finished cooking, you can always adjust the saltiness to your taste. The richness of the butter not only creates a silky texture for the sauce, but it also carries the lemon flavor beautifully, enhancing every bite. If you prefer a lighter version, consider substituting half of the butter with extra virgin olive oil, which will still provide a wonderful depth.

Thyme is another star ingredient here, adding an earthy undertone that perfectly complements the bright lemon. Fresh thyme is recommended if you have it on hand, as it has a more robust flavor compared to dried. For a twist, try using oregano or rosemary for a variation in flavor. Each brings a unique aroma that can transform the dish, especially if you are aiming for a different herby profile that suits your palate.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this Lemon Butter Chicken is delightful on its own, serving it with a side of sautéed vegetables, like green beans or asparagus, adds a nutritious element and balances the richness of the dish. For an even more elegant presentation, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or almonds can add both flavor and texture. This dish also pairs well with a chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, enhancing the lemony notes of the meal.

If you're looking to prep meals ahead of time, the chicken can be marinated in the lemon juice and herbs for up to 2 hours before cooking. Cooking the chicken in advance and reheating it in the lemon butter sauce just before serving can save time on busy nights. Just be cautious not to overcook it during reheating; aim for a gentle warming over low heat to preserve its juiciness.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup unsalted butter
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup long-grain rice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)

Mix and match ingredients based on your preference for an adventurous take!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up this delicious meal:

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme on both sides. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Create the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping the brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the rice and return the chicken to the skillet. Cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.

Serve

Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork, adjust seasoning if needed, and sprinkle with lemon zest and chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Butter Chicken With Rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, add some capers or olives to the sauce just before serving. They add a lovely briny note that complements the lemon beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Lemon Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture of the chicken, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a little chicken broth if needed to keep it moist. Avoid high heat to prevent the chicken from becoming tough or rubbery. The rice can also be stored, but it's best to separate it from the chicken if you plan to keep leftovers.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the chicken and sauce together. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. This method helps to retain the flavors while ensuring the dish is still delicious. You can also use the thawed chicken in wraps or salads for a new meal idea.

Common Troubleshooting

If you find that your chicken is not as tender as desired, it could be due to overcooking during the searing process. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and remove the chicken from heat as soon as it reaches this mark. If the dish ends up too dry, serving it with a bit of the sauce or broth drizzled over can help enhance moisture and flavor levels.

Should your sauce turn out too thick, simply whisk in additional chicken broth or a splash of water while while heating. This not only corrects the consistency but also allows the flavors to meld together. If the sauce is excessively tangy, a small pinch of sugar can help balance out the acidity from the lemon without overpowering the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes, just increase the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine.

→ What other sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic bread work great as sides!

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time, then combine them on the day of serving.