Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet

Name: Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken thighs, diced; 1 cup white rice, rinsed; 2 cups chicken broth; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1 cup fresh spinach; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Authentic Global Cuisine Inspiration

I absolutely love this Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet because it combines bright, zesty flavors with wholesome ingredients in just one pan. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant garlic, and refreshing lemon creates a delightful dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it's an easy way to sneak in some veggies! The best part is how the rice absorbs all the delicious juices, making every bite bursting with flavor. I can't wait for you to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:05:37.143Z

When I first made this Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet, I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly everything came together. The interplay between the garlicky chicken and the zesty lemon was just the boost that plain rice needed. I decided to add some spinach for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition, and it truly elevated the dish!

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily substitute different vegetables or add herbs based on what you have on hand. Plus, it's all made in one skillet, making clean-up a breeze, which is a huge bonus after a long day.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and tangy flavors that awaken your palate
One-pan meal for easy preparation and clean-up
Healthy ingredients that satisfy the whole family

Balancing Flavors and Ingredients

The key to making this Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet so delightful lies in the balance of flavors, particularly the robust garlic and the bright lemon. The garlic, when sautéed just until fragrant, develops a rich aroma that permeates the dish. Be cautious not to overcook it; burnt garlic can introduce a bitter taste. The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest not only enhances brightness but also complements the savory chicken and the earthy spinach, creating a cohesive flavor profile.

In this dish, fresh spinach plays a vital role. Not only does it impart a vibrant color to the skillet, but it brings a slight earthy note that balances the zesty elements. When incorporating the spinach, make sure to cook it just until wilted—this typically takes about 1-2 minutes. This step not only ensures the spinach maintains its nutrients but also prevents a soggy texture, keeping the dish fresh and lively.

Perfecting the Rice

Cooking the rice perfectly is fundamental to the success of this skillet meal. Rinsing the rice beforehand removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming gummy. After adding the rinsed rice to the skillet, allow it to toast for about 2 minutes. This step develops nutty flavors and further enhances the overall taste of the dish as it cooks in the flavorful broth. Keep an eye on it; it should look slightly translucent and glossy before adding liquid.

When simmering the rice in chicken broth, it's crucial to maintain a gentle boil before covering the skillet. High heat can cause the liquid to evaporate too quickly, leading to undercooked rice. A simmering heat ensures that the rice cooks evenly, with the broth fully absorbed, resulting in a fluffy texture. If you notice the liquid has absorbed but the rice is still firm, simply add a splash of broth or water and continue cooking while covered until it's fully tender.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet:

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet

4 boneless chicken thighs, diced
1 cup white rice, rinsed
2 cups chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 cup fresh spinach
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready to go before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season diced chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Add the Rice

Stir in the rinsed rice, followed by the lemon juice and zest. Mix well to combine and let the rice toast for about 2 minutes.

Combine Everything

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Add Spinach and Serve

Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy your beautifully cooked Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for an hour before cooking. You can also substitute the chicken for your favorite protein, such as shrimp or tofu, if you prefer.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftovers of your Lemon Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet, let it cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When reheating, ensure the rice is heated thoroughly—microwave or stovetop works well. If the rice appears dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to rehydrate it as you heat.

Freezing this dish is a great way to prepare meals in advance. However, be aware that while the chicken and rice hold up well, the texture of fresh spinach can change once frozen and thawed. If you plan to freeze leftovers, you might want to add fresh spinach when reheating instead of freezing it as part of the meal. This approach maintains its vibrant green color and nutritional benefits, enhancing the final presentation.

Flavor Variations

While the original recipe is packed with flavor, feel free to get creative with variations based on what you have on hand. For added depth, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist. If you're looking for a spice kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes during the chicken sautéing step will introduce a welcome heat without overpowering the other flavors.

For a heartier meal, you can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a nutritious vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly; canned beans only need to be warmed through, while dried legumes will require pre-cooking before adding them to the skillet. This flexibility not only caters to dietary preferences but also allows you to enjoy the flavors of this dish across a variety of ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook. Use about 40 minutes for brown rice.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet meal is complete on its own, but you can serve a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it when you're ready to eat.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container. Just make sure to thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.