Creamy Lemon Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups chicken stock; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Cooking

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice because it’s a comforting dish that brightens up any day. The tangy lemon flavor combined with tender chicken and fluffy rice creates an irresistible meal that my family can’t get enough of. I usually whip this up when we have a busy schedule, as it’s quick to prepare and delivers on flavor. It’s my go-to recipe for a cozy dinner, and it frequently earns compliments around the table!

Created by

Willow Harries

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:29:35.492Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how the lemon elevated the richness of the creamy sauce. It balanced the flavors perfectly, and the aroma was comfortingly inviting.

One tip I discovered is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; it helps retain its juices, making the dish even more succulent. I often pair this dish with a side salad for a refreshing touch!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, rich texture infused with zesty lemon
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
Hearty and satisfying, great for family dinners

      

Ingredient Highlights

The choice of jasmine rice in this dish is crucial as it has a delicate floral scent that complements the lemon's brightness beautifully. This variety of rice also has a slightly sticky texture when cooked, which helps it absorb the creamy sauce better, leading to a more flavorful experience. If you can't find jasmine rice, basmati can be used as a substitute, but be mindful of reducing the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooked rice.

Using heavy cream in this recipe provides a rich and velvety texture that elevates the dish. The cream not only adds body but also balances the acidity from the lemon juice, creating a harmonious flavor profile. For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but the dish may tend to be less creamy. Make sure to stir the cream in gently to maintain that luscious consistency.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the chicken, be sure to preheat the skillet adequately and don't overcrowd it; this ensures that the chicken sears properly and develops a golden crust. If your pan is too crowded, it will steam the chicken instead, leading to uneven cooking. A good tip is to use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and optimal juiciness.

The cream sauce phase is where the magic happens; allow it to simmer gently after adding the chicken back to the skillet. This will help the flavors meld without boiling, which can cause the cream to break or become grainy. If you find the sauce too thick after simmering, simply add a splash more chicken stock to reach your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups chicken stock
1 cup heavy cream
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

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

Prepare the Rice

In the same skillet, add the rice and sauté for 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken stock and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Make the Cream Sauce

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Serve

Spoon the creamy lemon chicken and rice onto plates, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, you can add some fresh thyme or dill to the cream sauce just before serving.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating gently on the stovetop is best; add a splash of chicken stock or a bit of cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid microwaving directly, as it can break the emulsion of the cream and make it greasy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then gently heat on the stove with some added liquid as needed.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or steamed vegetables, which can help balance out the richness of the creamy sauce. Try a fresh arugula salad with a vinaigrette for a peppery contrast that enhances the lemon flavor. Alternatively, a side of roasted asparagus or green beans can add a healthy and colorful touch.

For an extra pop of flavor, consider serving the chicken and rice with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of a good-quality olive oil just before serving. This not only adds depth to the dish but can also elevate the overall presentation, making it even more enticing on the dinner table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but be aware that the cooking time will be longer for brown rice. You may need to adjust the liquid accordingly.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative for the heavy cream?

You can substitute with coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! We recommend adding peas or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.