One-Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken (Printable)

Succulent chicken, fluffy rice, and a zesty cream sauce come together in one pot for a vibrant main dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Protein

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 21 ounces)

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 1 cup frozen peas
05 - Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

→ Grains

07 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed

→ Dairy

08 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Liquids

10 - 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Spices & Seasonings

11 - 1 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
14 - 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Sprinkle chicken thighs on both sides with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
02 - In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
03 - Add chopped onion to the same pot and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
04 - Add rinsed long-grain white rice and stir to coat with onion mixture. Pour in chicken broth, add lemon zest, and sprinkle with chili flakes if desired.
05 - Nestle seared chicken thighs back into the pot with rice. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
06 - Uncover the pot, add frozen peas, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Stir gently to incorporate. Cover and cook 5 more minutes, until rice is tender and liquid has absorbed.
07 - Remove from heat. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and adjust seasoning if needed. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Uses just one pot so cleaning up is fast and painless
  • Ready in under an hour so perfect for busy nights
  • Packed with fresh flavor from real lemon and herbs
  • Satisfying and cozy with a creamy lush texture
  • Works for gluten-free eaters if you check your broth label
02 -
  • High in protein from chicken and peas
  • Rice soaks up a creamy sauce for ultimate comfort
  • Freezes and reheats well for future meals
03 -
  • Always rinse the rice until the water runs clear to keep it from clumping
  • Sear the chicken thoroughly as this caramelizes the surface and boosts flavor
  • Use fresh lemon for both zest and juice as bottled lemon products can taste dull
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