One-Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken (Printable)

Chicken and rice gently simmered with lemon, cream, and peas for a zesty all-in-one meal.

# What You Need:

→ Protein

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 1.3 pounds)

→ 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 additional 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)

# How-To:

01 - Generously season 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 seasoned chicken thighs for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden. Remove from the pot and set aside.
03 - Add chopped onion to the same pot and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Stir in rinsed white rice to coat with the onion mixture. Add chicken broth, lemon zest, and chili flakes (if using), stirring to combine.
05 - Return seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
06 - Remove lid and add frozen peas, heavy cream, and lemon juice to the pot. Stir gently to integrate, cover, and cook an additional 5 minutes until rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
07 - Take off heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and adjust seasoning to taste. Allow dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick to prep with just 15 minutes of chopping and measuring
  • Rich and creamy but balanced by tangy lemon
  • All-in-one meal with protein grains and veggies in each bite
  • Flexible for weeknights or casual entertaining
  • Everything cooks in one pot for fewer dishes to wash
02 -
  • High in protein and gluten-free when prepared with certified ingredients
  • The lemon flavor is bright without being overpowering
  • Leftovers taste fantastic and can be packed for lunch
03 -
  • Use a heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid to prevent losing too much liquid during simmering
  • Always rinse your rice to ensure fluffy non-gummy grains
  • Taste and tip in extra lemon juice after cooking if you like extra brightness
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