Lemon Pepper Chicken Rice

Succulent chicken breasts seasoned with zesty lemon and cracked black pepper are served over fluffy rice for a bright comforting meal. This dish offers a harmonious blend of fresh citrus and aromatic spices making it a family favorite any night of the week.

I remember the first time I made this lemon pepper chicken for my family everyone raved about the punchy citrus aroma that filled our kitchen. It instantly became a go-to for busy weeknights when we craved something both fresh and hearty.

Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless skinless
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
• Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Lemon Zest: Zest of 1 lemon
• Lemon Juice: Juice of 1 lemon
• Garlic: 2 cloves minced
• Rice: 1 cup long-grain white
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (or Water): 2 cups
• Unsalted Butter: 1 tablespoon
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh Parsley (optional): 2 tablespoons chopped
• Lemon Slices (optional): For garnish

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare Chicken:

Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl mix olive oil black pepper salt lemon zest lemon juice and minced garlic.

Season Chicken:

Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

Sear Chicken:

Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 2 minutes per side until golden.

Bake Chicken:

Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes to 18 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).

Rinse Rice:

While the chicken bakes rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

Cook Rice:

In a saucepan bring chicken broth (or water) and butter to a boil. Add the rice and salt stir once cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes then remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Serve:

Serve the chicken breasts over the rice. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices if desired.

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Gathering around the table with my family to enjoy this meal always sparks conversation and laughter thanks to the uplifting flavors and inviting aroma. It's a simple recipe that creates memorable moments with every bite.

Required Tools

You'll need a large ovenproof skillet small mixing bowl saucepan with lid measuring cups and spoons knife and cutting board for easy preparation.

Allergen Information

Contains dairy from the butter. Dish remains gluten-free with the right chicken broth selection—read labels to verify ingredients.

Nutritional Information

Each serving includes 340 calories 9 g fat 32 g carbohydrates and 32 g protein making it a balanced main course choice for a health-conscious dinner.

Save

This refreshing lemon pepper chicken with rice is perfect for busy nights or relaxed weekend dinners. Enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite and watch it become a family favorite.

Recipe FAQ

→ How do I get the chicken tender and juicy?

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and searing it to seal in juices. Baking at a moderate temperature until the internal temperature reaches 165°F ensures tenderness.

→ Can I prepare the lemon pepper mixture in advance?

Yes, marinating the chicken in the lemon pepper mixture for up to 2 hours enhances flavor and tenderness.

→ What type of rice works best for this dish?

Long-grain white rice yields a fluffy texture, but brown rice can be used with adjusted cooking times.

→ How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

Monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, removing the chicken once it reaches 165°F for optimal juiciness.

→ What can I use instead of chicken broth for cooking the rice?

Water can substitute chicken broth, though broth adds richer flavor to the rice.