Save Succulent chicken breasts seasoned with zesty lemon and cracked black pepper, served over fluffy rice for a bright, comforting meal.
I first made this Lemon Pepper Chicken with Rice on a chilly weeknight when I was craving something both cozy and vibrant. The blend of lemon and pepper transformed basic chicken into a dish my family now requests again and again.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, zest of 1 lemon, juice of 1 lemon, 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Rice: 1 cup long-grain white rice, 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water), 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Garnish (optional): 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped), lemon slices
Instructions
- Prep Oven and Chicken:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). 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 – 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.
Save Sharing this meal always takes me back to our family table, when laughter and the comforting aroma of lemon filled the kitchen.
Required Tools
Large ovenproof skillet, small mixing bowl, saucepan with lid, measuring cups and spoons, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter); ensure gluten-free chicken broth if needed
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 340, Total Fat: 9 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 32 g
Save Try this recipe once, and it will become a weeknight favorite. Enjoy every citrusy bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays moist?
Searing the chicken breasts before baking locks in juices, while baking at a moderate temperature helps maintain tenderness.
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice can be substituted but will require longer cooking time and adjusted liquid amounts.
- → What is the best way to enhance lemon flavor?
Using both lemon zest and juice intensifies the citrus notes without overpowering the dish.
- → Should I marinate the chicken beforehand?
Marinating for up to 2 hours deepens flavor but is optional; the seasoning mix alone provides a bright taste.
- → Can I prepare this dish gluten-free?
Yes, ensure the chicken broth used is gluten-free to keep the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.