Creamy Lemon Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Juice and zest of 1 large lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy Comfort Foods

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice because it combines fresh flavors with a comforting creaminess that's hard to resist. The zesty lemon and tender chicken meld together beautifully, while the rice brings everything together in a delightful bite. This dish has become a staple in my home for dinners that impress without requiring too much effort. With just a few ingredients and one pot, it's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it holds a special place in my heart.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:25:36.358Z

When I first created this Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice, I was experimenting with ingredients I had on hand. The balance of tangy lemon with the richness of cream not only elevates the dish but also adds a brightness that's uplifting. It’s amazing how just a squeeze of fresh lemon can transform the flavor profile and make it feel light, even though it's a hearty dish.

One of the best tips I discovered while perfecting this recipe is to let the chicken marinade a little before cooking. This not only makes the chicken tender but also allows those zesty flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy bite. Trust me, marinating is worth the extra time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon flavor paired with creamy textures
One-pot preparation for easy cleanup
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any occasion

Unlocking the Flavor of Lemon

The bright and zesty flavor of lemon is the star of this dish, elevating it beyond a typical creamy chicken and rice meal. The acidity of the lemon complements the richness of the heavy cream and allows all the flavors to harmonize beautifully. When zesting the lemon, make sure to only grate the yellow part of the peel; the white pith can impart a bitter taste. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended over bottled juice to capture the fullest flavor, making a noticeable difference in your dish.

To release maximum flavor from the lemon, try rubbing it before juicing to break down the cell walls, making it easier to squeeze. Remember to save some zest for sprinkling as a garnish just before serving; it not only adds a burst of flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of your dish.

Perfecting Your Rice

Cooking rice in chicken broth instead of water infuses it with additional flavor, making it more enjoyable and hearty. It’s essential to bring the broth to a boil before reducing it to a simmer; this initial high heat helps the rice to cook evenly. Stirring the rice only once after adding it to the simmering broth can help prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Aim for a simmer that bubbles gently without boiling over; a good visual cue is to see occasional bubbles escape while keeping the surface tension intact.

If you prefer a more textured rice, you can substitute long-grain rice with basmati or jasmine rice; both will lend aromatic qualities that enhance the dish. Just be mindful of the cooking time, which might vary slightly for different types of rice. Always check for doneness and fluff with a fork (not a spoon) to separate the grains without mashing.

Make-Ahead and Serving Suggestions

Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep. After cooking, let the dish cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess and prevent it from drying out.

Serving this dish with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can balance its richness. Consider pairing it with a light white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or pairing it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce. For a touch of extra flavor, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can provide a subtle kick, complementing the lemon beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the most mouthwatering Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

With everything ready, you can proceed to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken breasts with lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Rice

In the same skillet, add the rice and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, covering the skillet. Cook for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender.

Add Cream and Chicken

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and return the chicken to the skillet. Stir well to combine, allowing the chicken to heat through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice!

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a handful of baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes just before serving. Both options complement the lemon perfectly!

Common Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue when cooking chicken is ensuring it's not dry. To prevent this, avoid overcooking; a meat thermometer can be invaluable here. Chicken is perfectly cooked at an internal temperature of 165°F. If it begins to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to medium. Remember that the residual heat will continue to cook the chicken even after removing it from the skillet.

Another area to watch is the cream sauce; if it separates, it often indicates overheating. To fix this, simply lower the heat and whisk gently until it comes back together. Also, make sure to adjust seasoning to taste after adding cream, as the richness can sometimes mask the flavors of your initial seasoning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re seeking a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. Keep in mind that this might slightly alter the texture, making it less rich, but it will still yield a creamy result. If you want to replace the chicken, consider using firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option, though the cooking times will vary drastically.

For added nutrition or a different flavor profile, consider mixing in some fresh spinach or kale right before serving. These greens wilt quickly and blend well with the creamy sauce, adding both nutrients and a beautiful pop of color.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

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

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with a lighter cream or non-dairy milk, and use less oil for cooking.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Peas, carrots, or broccoli are great additions that will add both color and nutrition to the dish.