Pin it One-Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice is comfort food at its brightest This recipe combines tender chicken fluffy rice sweet peas and a creamy lemon-scented sauce all made in one pot for fuss-free cleanup and plenty of rich flavor The zingy freshness of lemon ties everything together making each bite both hearty and uplifting
I was craving something cozy but light this past spring and stumbled on this combination and now every time lemons are on sale we know exactly what dinner will be
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Rich flavor and tender after stewing Choose thighs with a pink color avoid any with a gray tinge
- Medium yellow onion: Aromatic foundation for depth Always pick onions that are firm and without blemishes
- Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic packs more punch mince it for even flavor
- Frozen peas: Sweet burst of color and nutrients Go for bright green plump peas
- Lemon zest and juice: Lemon brings brightness and balances creaminess Use unwaxed lemons for the best zest
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley finishes with freshness Opt for vibrant green bunches
- Long-grain white rice: Absorbs flavors perfectly Rinse thoroughly to remove excess starch
- Heavy cream: Adds creamy body Look for cream with the fewest additives
- Unsalted butter: Helps brown the chicken and adds richness Good-quality European butter is extra creamy
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Infuses the dish with taste Choose a broth with minimal ingredients
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance every element
- Dried thyme: Earthy herbal note Pick jars with a strong fragrance for best taste
- Chili flakes: Optional for a little kick Use flakes with a deep red color for extra vibrance
Instructions
- Season the Chicken
- Pat the chicken thighs dry then sprinkle both sides with salt black pepper and dried thyme Make sure every surface gets coated so flavor penetrates deep
- Sear the Chicken
- Place a large deep skillet or Dutch oven on mediumhigh heat Melt the butter then add the chicken thighs Let them cook undisturbed for three to four minutes until the underside is golden brown Flip and repeat on the other side Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate Resting lets juices stay in while you finish the base
- Build the Aromatics
- Add the finely chopped onion to the same pot with all the brown bits still sizzling Stir occasionally and cook for two to three minutes until the onion is soft and starting to turn translucent Toss in the minced garlic Stir for thirty more seconds or until your kitchen smells amazing
- Toast the Rice
- Pour the rinsed rice into the pot and stir well so each grain gets coated with the onion garlic butter mixture You want the rice to start toasting which brings out a nutty aroma
- Add Liquid and Lemon
- Pour in the chicken broth carefully Add the lemon zest and chili flakes if you want a gentle heat Stir to combine and scrape the bottom so nothing sticks
- Simmer with Chicken
- Nestle the seared chicken thighs into the rice mixture making sure they are partially submerged Raise heat to a gentle boil then lower to the smallest simmer and cover tightly Let this cook for twenty minutes The rice will soak up flavors from both the chicken and broth
- Finish with Cream and Peas
- Lift the lid after twenty minutes Add the frozen peas heavy cream and lemon juice to the pan Stir gently especially around the chicken Cover again and simmer for another five minutes until everything is tender creamy and most of the liquid is absorbed
- Rest and Garnish
- Take the pot off the heat Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley Taste and adjust salt or lemon if needed Rest for five minutes with the lid on This final step lets the rice finish steaming and the flavors meld
Pin it Parsley is the ingredient I never skip Adding it right at the end gives a lively burst that lifts every bite My kids once picked the parsley off but now it is their favorite part after they helped snip it fresh from our garden
Storage Tips
Cool leftovers promptly and store in an airtight container in the fridge You can refrigerate for up to three days If the rice absorbs extra liquid simply stir in a splash of broth or water before reheating Gently warm on the stovetop or microwave
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken breasts can be swapped in but they cook a bit faster so check earlier For extra veggies stir in chopped spinach or asparagus with the peas Brown rice will work but will need an extra half cup of broth and about twenty additional minutes cooking time For a dairy free version use olive oil and coconut milk
Serving Suggestions
This one pot meal really stars on its own but add a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus on the side if you like For a slight extra touch top with lemon wedges and extra chopped parsley A glass of white wine pairs beautifully
Pin it 
You will love how the bright lemon brings cozy rice and chicken together in one happy pot Try it for a quick weeknight win or healthy comfort meal any season
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Sear the chicken thighs first for golden color and moisture, then simmer gently with rice to retain juiciness.
- → Can I substitute chicken breasts for thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used. Adjust cooking time to prevent dryness and check for doneness with a thermometer.
- → What vegetables work well in this dish?
Peas are classic, but you can add spinach or asparagus in the final minutes for extra color and nutrients.
- → How do I get the best lemon flavor?
Use both lemon zest and juice; zest adds aroma, while juice brings tang. Add a splash more juice before serving if desired.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth. Always check labels on packaged ingredients to ensure no hidden gluten.
- → What wine pairs well with this?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Chardonnay complements the creamy lemon flavors perfectly.