Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet

Name: Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Weeknight Wonders

I absolutely love making this Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet because it's a quick and flavorful one-pan meal that never disappoints. The combination of tender chicken, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic creates a dish that's not only satisfying but also refreshing. In just under 30 minutes, I can have dinner ready, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze, allowing me to spend more time enjoying my meal and less time in the kitchen.

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:17:37.461Z

When I first made this Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients transformed into a comforting and hearty dish. The key is marinating the chicken in lemon juice and garlic beforehand, which not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that the chicken stays juicy while cooking. Using a skillet makes it easy to get that delightful caramelization on the chicken, elevating the overall taste.

One of my favorite tips is to stir in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving. This adds a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the dish. Plus, I love serving this with a side of steamed vegetables to round out the meal and add even more color to the plate!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon and garlic flavors that brighten up your meal
One-pan preparation for easy cooking and cleanup
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet plays a vital role in building flavor. The chicken thighs are not just the protein; they provide a rich and succulent base that absorbs the tangy lemon and aromatic garlic beautifully. While chicken breast could be used as a lighter alternative, I recommend sticking with thighs for their juiciness, especially since they stay tender during the cooking process.

Rice acts as the comforting component in this meal, soaking up the seasoned chicken broth. Long-grain white rice is ideal here due to its fluffy texture when cooked, ensuring it doesn't clump together. If you're aiming for a whole grain option, you can substitute with brown rice; however, keep in mind it will require more cooking time—about 30-40 minutes—so adjust your timing accordingly.

Essential Cooking Techniques

Searing the chicken properly is key to achieving that golden brown exterior, which adds depth to the dish. Make sure the skillet is hot enough when you add the chicken; a gentle sizzle when it hits the pan confirms that you're on the right track. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain a good heat level—cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.

When it comes to toasting the rice, don’t rush this step. A quick 1-2 minute toast in the skillet helps release the rice's natural nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Look for the rice to have a slightly translucent edge; this visual cue indicates it's ready for the broth, which further infuses the dish with flavor.

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, marinate the chicken thighs with lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper for at least 10 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the marinated chicken and sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Rice

In the same skillet, add the rice and toast for 1-2 minutes. Then, pour in the chicken broth, lemon zest, and adjust the seasoning. Bring to a simmer.

Combine and Finish

Once the rice is cooked (about 15 minutes), stir in the peas and return the chicken to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Garnish and Serve

Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a delightful finish!

Enjoy this delicious meal with your favorite side salad!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or a splash of white wine to the skillet while cooking the chicken.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet is perfect for make-ahead meal prep. You can marinate the chicken thighs the night before to allow the flavors to penetrate, saving time during a busy weeknight dinner. Cooked rice can also be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, and if you have any leftovers, they make an excellent lunch option—just reheat gently on the stove to avoid mushiness.

If you're looking to freeze, store the cooked chicken and rice separately in airtight containers. You can freeze the skillet meal for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to help revive the flavors.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving this dish with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables will enhance its freshness and nutritional value. A citrusy arugula salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette complements the lemony notes beautifully, balancing out the richness of the chicken.

For variations, consider swapping out the peas for other vegetables like spinach or asparagus, which can be added towards the end of cooking. If you're in the mood for something spicy, a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño can be sautéed with the garlic for an extra kick, adding a whole new dimension to this already vibrant dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What can I substitute for chicken thighs?

You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if preferred; just be sure not to overcook them.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time to save time during cooking.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead.