Creamy lemon garlic chicken with herb rice is a comforting yet elegant dish made with tender seared chicken simmered in a rich, citrusy garlic cream sauce and served over fluffy, buttery herb rice. It combines bright, fresh flavors with satisfying richness—making it ideal for both casual weeknights and more formal gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers the perfect balance of tangy lemon, aromatic garlic, and creamy texture—all coating juicy, golden-brown chicken. The herb rice adds a simple but flavorful base, soaking up the delicious sauce. It’s easy to make in under an hour, uses minimal ingredients, and brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe never fails to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:

• 4 chicken tenders or thin chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thicker sauce)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for garnish

For the herb rice:

• 1 cup long grain rice
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. In a saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add rice and butter, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until cooked. Stir in chopped parsley and set aside.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear on both sides until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes total. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in lemon juice and chicken broth. If using, whisk in flour to thicken the sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for another 3–4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Serve the chicken with a generous spoonful of herb rice. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Sautéed spinach, asparagus, or green beans pair beautifully with this dish.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.
• Use thighs instead of tenders: Boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and add more richness.
• Dairy-free option: Use a plant-based cream and butter substitute.
• Herb swaps: Try dill or basil in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the chicken and rice gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Microwave reheating is also possible—heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.

What rice works best for this dish?

Long grain white rice is ideal, but jasmine or basmati rice also work well for added aroma and texture.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and rice ahead, then reheat and combine with the sauce just before serving.

Is there a low-carb substitute for rice?

Yes, serve with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables for a low-carb option.

Can I add cheese to the sauce?

A small amount of grated Parmesan can be added for extra richness, though it’s optional.

How thick should the sauce be?

It should be pourable but slightly thickened. Use flour or reduce the sauce slightly longer to reach desired consistency.

What kind of pan should I use?

A large stainless steel or nonstick skillet works well. Avoid cast iron if using acidic ingredients like lemon.

Does this dish pair well with wine?

Yes, a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy lemon flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Creamy lemon garlic chicken with herb rice is a flavorful, comforting meal that’s both simple and sophisticated. The tender chicken, zesty garlic cream sauce, and fragrant herb rice create a harmonious plate that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether for a quiet dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this dish delivers every time.

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