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: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup spinach (optional); 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Highlighted under: Home-Style Comfort Dishes

I love whipping up a quick yet delicious dish like this Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet. It's a delightful one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant garlic, all infused into fluffy rice. In just about 30 minutes, I can serve my family a satisfying and wholesome dinner packed with flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish never fails to impress with its vibrant taste and ease of preparation.

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-11T00:01:36.879Z

When I first made this Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing any flavor. The secret lies in marinating the chicken in lemon juice and garlic before cooking, which infuses every bite with a punch. I also discovered that using broth instead of water for the rice adds a depth of flavor that elevates this dish beyond the usual one-pan meals.

Every time I prepare this recipe, I enjoy playing with the vegetables I have on hand. Adding a handful of spinach right before serving not only boosts the nutrition but also gives the dish a beautiful pop of color. This adaptability makes it a favorite for utilizing leftover veggies in my fridge!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and tangy lemon paired with savory garlic
Easy cleanup with just one skillet
Versatile with your favorite vegetables added

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and oregano is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. The acidity of the lemon not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a vibrant taste. Allow the chicken to sit for at least 15 minutes, but if time permits, marinating for up to an hour can elevate the flavor even more. This step ensures that every bite is packed with zesty goodness, making the chicken the star of the skillet.

For the marinade, using fresh lemon juice is highly recommended as it provides a sharper taste compared to bottled lemon juice. You can also try adding a splash of white wine to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor. Avoid using metal bowls for marinating, as the acidic lemon juice can react with metal. Instead, opt for glass or a food-safe plastic container.

Perfecting the Rice

Cooking the rice in the same skillet as the chicken allows it to soak up all the delicious pan drippings, creating a rich and flavorful base. When you add the rice, make sure to sauté it for about a minute until it’s coated and slightly toasted. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice and helps it remain separate during cooking, avoiding a mushy texture. Once you add the chicken broth, watch for it to reach a boil before reducing the heat to a simmer.

It's important to keep the skillet covered while the rice cooks to trap steam, which helps it cook evenly. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often, as this can release steam and prolong cooking time. If you find that your rice is cooking too quickly and absorbing liquid too fast, you can lower the heat to prevent burning. In case you want to make it a bit more nutritious, consider substituting part of the rice with quinoa for added protein.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet can be easily customized to suit your taste. Adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can enhance both the visual appeal and nutritional value of the dish. When adding vegetables, consider their cooking time; for instance, softer veggies can be tossed in during the last five minutes of the chicken's cooking time to ensure they remain tender-crisp.

For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of olive oil or sprinkle some fresh parsley on top before serving. A side of crusty bread pairs beautifully to soak up the juices, or you could side it with a light salad for a fresh complement. As for leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; simply reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup spinach (optional)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken breasts with lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Rice

In the same skillet, add the rice and stir it into the pan drippings for about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Finish with Vegetables

If using, add the spinach and cherry tomatoes to the skillet, fluff the rice with a fork, and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein. Adding a splash of white wine before simmering can enhance the flavor further.

Ingredient Variations

While chicken breasts are the perfect protein choice for this skillet, you can easily substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier result. Bone-in options will also work but might require longer cooking times. For a vegetarian version, consider using chickpeas or tofu marinated in similar seasonings, adjusting the cook time accordingly to ensure everything is heated through and flavorful.

If you're looking to reduce carbohydrates, you could replace the rice with cauliflower rice. Just note that cooking time will be significantly reduced, as cauliflower rice only needs a few minutes to heat through. Whichever variation you choose, be sure to adjust the cooking liquids and times based on the protein or grain selected.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is ideal for meal prep, as you can cook everything in advance and store it in separate containers for the week. After cooking, allow the skillet to cool completely before dividing the chicken and rice into airtight containers. It can last in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. If freezing, consider keeping the vegetables separate until you reheat to maintain their crispness.

When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of chicken broth to the skillet or microwave-safe dish, as this will help restore moisture and prevent the rice from drying out. Always ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F when reheating to guarantee safety. This makes for an effortless dinner that’s simply delicious, anytime.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time. Just reheat gently before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet dish is hearty on its own, but it can be served with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time and use more liquid as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Using gluten-free rice and checking the broth label will keep this dish gluten-free.