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Lemon Chicken and Rice with Bright Flavor

A close-up of Lemon Chicken and Rice with Bright Flavor, garnished with lemon zest, parsley, and pine nuts.
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A flavorful and easy Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken and fluffy rice infused with bright lemon and herbs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pieces chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 lemon wedges
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds

Instructions

  1. Combine lemon zest, juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss chicken pieces to coat thoroughly and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
  2. Combine long-grain rice, chicken broth, and lemon zest in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce to low, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until tender and fluffy.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and juices run clear.
  4. Nestle seared chicken into the rice pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Cover, let flavors meld, and ensure chicken is cooked through.
  5. Fluff rice and chicken with a fork, then sprinkle chopped parsley and toasted almonds. Serve with lemon wedges for a bright, zesty finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for best flavor.
  • Allow enough marinating time for enhanced taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon chicken, chicken and rice, mediterranean recipe, easy dinner, healthy lunch, bright flavor

Find it online: https://www.meltitclean.com/lemon-chicken-and-rice-with-bright-flavor/