Creamy Lemon Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Everyday Kitchen

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice because it combines the bright, zesty flavors of lemon with tender chicken and creamy rice. This dish has become a family favorite, and it's perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or entertaining guests. The rich, buttery sauce envelops the juicy chicken while the rice soaks up every bit of flavor, making each bite a pleasure. Plus, it comes together in under an hour, bringing a taste of gourmet dining to my kitchen without the fuss.

Created by

Primrose Cavendish

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:13:36.404Z

When I first experimented with Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice, I was amazed at how the simple combination of ingredients could elevate a weeknight meal. The zesty lemon brightens the dish, while the creaminess binds it all together, creating a comforting texture. I discovered that allowing the chicken to marinate briefly in lemon juice brings out its natural flavors, making every bite mouthwatering.

Using Arborio rice instead of regular white rice adds a lovely creaminess without the need for heavy cream. Cooking the rice directly in the chicken broth infuses every grain with flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, making it not just a delightful dish to eat but also to present at the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The zesty brightness of lemon perfectly complements the creamy base.
One-pot convenience makes clean-up a breeze.
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables.

      

Why Lemon is Key

The bright acidity of lemon in this dish plays a crucial role in balancing the richness of the creamy sauce. When you freshly zest and juice the lemon, you're releasing essential oils and flavors that enhance the overall taste profile. I recommend choosing a ripe lemon for maximum juiciness and flavor. This bright note not only elevates the chicken but also prevents the dish from feeling heavy, making every bite satisfying yet light.

Don't be afraid to adjust the amount of lemon to your liking; if you enjoy a more pronounced citrus flavor, adding an extra half lemon can brighten the dish even further. The zest adds a subtle floral aroma that rounds out the creamy textures, so use the zest fresh every time for the best results. This is one of the secrets to making your Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice feel gourmet.

Tips for Cooking Perfect Rice

Using Arborio rice in this recipe is a game changer. This short-grain rice is typically used in risottos due to its high starch content, which helps to create a wonderfully creamy texture. When you’re sautéing it before adding the broth, you’re allowing it to toast slightly, which adds depth to the flavor. You should see the edges of the grains become slightly translucent before you pour in the broth.

As the rice simmers, resist the temptation to lift the lid too often. Keeping the lid on retains steam and helps the rice cook evenly, absorbing the broth’s flavors. If your rice seems too dry at any point, it’s perfectly fine to add a splash more broth or water to ensure it cooks thoroughly. This step will help you avoid the common issue of undercooked or sticky rice.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smooth and efficient!

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Make sure to have all ingredients pre-measured to streamline your cooking process.

Instructions

Let's start by preparing the chicken and gathering everything we need for an efficient cooking experience!

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance the flavor.

Sear the Chicken

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

Cook the Rice

In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for another 2 minutes, then pour in the chicken broth and lemon zest. Bring to a boil.

Combine Ingredients

Reduce heat to low and return the chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is creamy and absorbs the broth.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving this dish immediately will ensure the rice remains creamy and the chicken stays tender. Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using thyme or rosemary when cooking the chicken. Additionally, adding vegetables like peas or spinach can enhance the nutrition and flavor profile.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, be sure to do so slowly on a low heat setting to prevent the rice from becoming mushy. I recommend adding a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the creaminess and prevent it from drying out during reheating.

For longer storage, this dish can also be frozen. Divide it into single-serving portions and store them in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, defrost it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove to maintain the dish’s delicate textures.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the best features of Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice is its adaptability. Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms. If adding raw veggies, consider throwing them in during the last 10 minutes of the simmering step to ensure they remain vibrant and tender without losing their nutrients.

For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt after cooking, which will lend a tangy profile while keeping the dish creamy. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Just remember that cooking times will vary, so adjust accordingly!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio rice?

While you can use brown rice, keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time and may alter the creaminess of the dish.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.