Creamy Lemon Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breast fillets; 1 cup rice (uncooked); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Zest and juice of 2 lemons; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Classics

I absolutely love this Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice recipe! The combination of tender chicken with a zesty lemon cream sauce is simply mouthwatering. It’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to dinner time, with minimal effort. As a busy person, I appreciate how quickly everything comes together, and the vibrant flavor profile always impresses my family. Each bite is a delightful balance of creaminess and citrus tang. I can’t wait for you to try it too!

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:01:36.957Z

When I first tried this dish, I was amazed at how easy it was to whip up something so delicious. The creamy lemon sauce quickly comes to life as the chicken cooks, and I love incorporating fresh lemon juice for that extra zing. I remember the first time I served it; the flavor was a total hit with my family, and it's now a regular on our dinner rotation.

One tip I can share is to use medium heat when sautéing the chicken; it allows for even cooking and prevents the cream sauce from splitting. The addition of herbs really elevates the dish, and I often use parsley or thyme, depending on what I have on hand!

Why you'll love this recipe
Creamy texture that perfectly complements the zesty lemon.
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners.
A delightful balance of flavors that leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Elevating Your Sauce

The creamy lemon sauce is the star of this dish, and the balance of flavors is key. By incorporating the zest of the lemons, you're infusing the dish with a bright, aromatic quality that cuts through the richness of the cream. I recommend using freshly grated lemon zest for the best flavor; dried zest might lack the same vibrancy. Adjust the lemon juice to taste—start with the juice of one lemon and add more if you prefer a sharper tang.

To achieve a silky texture in the sauce, make sure to stir it continuously over low heat after adding the cream. If the sauce begins to thicken too much before combining with the chicken and rice, you can whisk in a splash of chicken broth to loosen it. This technique not only enhances the texture, but it also prevents the cream from curdling, which can happen if it overheats.

Perfecting the Chicken

When cooking the chicken, make sure your skillet is adequately preheated on medium heat before adding the oil. This helps to achieve that desired golden brown crust on the chicken; the Maillard reaction is essential for building flavor. If your chicken breasts are thicker than an inch, consider butterflying them or using a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness for more uniform cooking.

Another tip for perfectly cooked chicken is to let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy, tender bite. I often cover the chicken with foil as it rests, keeping it warm without continuing to cook, which can dry it out.

Storage and Reheating

This dish is great for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to maintain the creamy texture and prevent it from drying out. Heat gently on medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through—this ensures the delicate cream doesn’t separate.

If you want to freeze this dish, it's best to do so without the cream. Cook the chicken and rice together, then cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheating should involve cooking it on low and gradually stirring in the heavy cream in the last few minutes to maintain that luscious texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Main Ingredients

4 chicken breast fillets
1 cup rice (uncooked)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Zest and juice of 2 lemons
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

This combination of ingredients is what makes the recipe so special!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice:

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Set them aside for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Cook the Chicken

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

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest, stirring well to combine.

Add the Rice

Stir in the rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Cook for 18-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed the liquid.

Finish the Dish

Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 3 minutes until everything is heated through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For a touch of freshness, consider adding some baby spinach in the last few minutes of cooking. It will wilt beautifully and add nutritional value to the dish!

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables, making for a well-rounded meal. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a handful of sautéed spinach or broccoli into the mix just before serving. The greens not only enhance the dish’s visual appeal but also add nutritional value.

For those who enjoy a little spice, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the dish before serving. This will provide a lovely contrast against the creamy, tangy sauce. Alternatively, serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce—trust me, it’s irresistibly delicious!

Variations to Try

Feel free to switch up the protein! While chicken is the star here, this recipe works wonderfully with shrimp or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adjust cooking times accordingly; shrimp takes only about 3-4 minutes per side, while tofu should be cooked until golden and crispy.

You can also experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor profile. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even dill can be splendid additions, offering a unique twist while complementing the lemon's brightness. Adding herbs in the last few minutes of cooking allows their flavors to meld beautifully without losing their freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice generally takes longer to cook, so make sure to pre-cook it accordingly or add extra liquid.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if you're looking for a lighter option.

→ Can this dish be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked Chicken and Rice in an airtight container. Just reheat it in the oven or stovetop when you're ready to serve.

→ How can I make it spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the sauce or serving with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.