Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet

Name: Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup frozen peas; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food

I love making this Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet when I'm short on time but still want a delicious, wholesome meal. The citrusy zest combined with the fragrant garlic elevates the chicken and rice to another level. In just one pan, I can create a colorful and satisfying dish that pleases both my family and my taste buds. It's a simple recipe that manages to impress, and I always adore seeing the smiles on their faces when it’s time to dig in!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:53:36.554Z

When I first decided to create this Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet, I wanted a dish that embodied both comfort and flavor. The simplicity of one-pan cooking instantly appealed to me, and experimenting with lemon and garlic felt like the perfect match for tender chicken. I found that marinating the chicken for even a brief period can significantly enhance its taste, making each bite a burst of sunshine!

As I perfected the cooking technique, I discovered that cooking the rice directly in the pan with the chicken allowed all the flavors to meld beautifully. This not only saved time on clean-up but also created a wonderfully aromatic base for the dish. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and parsley added to the visual appeal, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens the dish
One-pan convenience for easy clean-up
Tender chicken cooked to juicy perfection

      

Perfecting the Chicken

Choosing the right chicken breast is crucial for achieving juicy results. Look for breasts that are plump and have a firm texture. When cutting them into bite-sized pieces, aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking. Sauté the chicken over medium heat; this allows for the outside to brown nicely while remaining moist inside. Make sure to avoid crowding the skillet, as this can lead to steaming instead of searing, inhibiting that delicious golden crust.

For enhanced flavor, let the chicken marinate in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic for about 30 minutes before cooking. This simple step amplifies the citrusy notes and deepens the garlic's profile in the final dish. If you need a quicker option, seasoning it well when added to the skillet can still yield excellent flavor without the wait.

Rice Techniques

The type of rice used is essential for the best texture. Long-grain rice is perfect here as it cooks up fluffy and separates well, absorbing the lemony broth without becoming mushy. When you add the rice to the skillet, ensure it’s stirred well with the garlic and chicken for about two minutes; this toasting step enhances its nutty flavor. If you prefer brown rice for its nutritional benefits, remember to adjust the cooking time and increase the liquid to 2.5 cups of broth, as it typically requires longer to cook.

When simmering the rice, cover the skillet to create steam that aids in cooking. Check occasionally to ensure there's enough liquid; if you notice it's drying out before the rice is tender, add a splash more broth or water. Once finished, the rice should be tender and slightly al dente, as it will continue to absorb flavors during the resting period.

Serving and Storing

Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet is best served hot straight from the pan, garnished with fresh parsley and extra lemon zest for a bright finish. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal. You can also serve it warm in bowls for a more casual presentation that invites all to dig in. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

This dish keeps well, making it a great option for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for up to a month. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to avoid drying out the rice. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, to ensure even heating.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 cup frozen peas
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything nicely prepped before cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dish:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Garlic and Rice

Stir in the minced garlic and long-grain rice. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, letting the rice absorb the flavors.

Pour in Broth and Simmer

Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and chopped bell pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked.

Incorporate Peas and Finish

Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Adjust seasoning, garnish with lemon zest and parsley, then serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking. You can also add any vegetables you have on hand for extra nutrition.

Ingredient Variations

While the classic combination of chicken, bell pepper, and peas is delightful, feel free to customize the recipe. Substitute chicken with turkey or even shrimp for a lighter option. If you want to boost the vegetable content, zucchini, spinach, or carrots would add both color and nutrition without altering the dish's essence. Just be mindful of cooking times—add quicker-cooking veggies like spinach in the last few minutes to avoid wilting.

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, ensuring to adjust cooking times. Cook the protein separately to achieve a good sear, then combine it with the rice mixture towards the end. To keep the flavors vibrant, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or tamari, enhancing the umami aspect while maintaining the lemony brightness.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you notice the rice is sticking to the pan or beginning to burn, it could be that the heat was too high or the pan was not adequately oiled. Always ensure the oil is hot before adding ingredients, and keep an eye on the heat throughout the cooking process to maintain a gentle simmer. Additionally, if the chicken appears dry, it may have been cooked too long; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it remains juicy.

Another common issue is undercooked rice. If, after 20 minutes, the rice is still hard, do not panic. Just add another 1/4 to 1/2 cup of broth, cover, and allow it to simmer for an additional few minutes. The key is to keep an eye on the moisture level and adjust as necessary to achieve that perfect fluffy rice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but be aware that brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can substitute with boneless turkey, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Freeze it in a safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.