Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice

Name: Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Juice of 2 lemons; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt to taste

Published: September 20, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Bursting with Flavor: The creamy lemon garlic sauce elevates the chicken while keeping it tender and juicy.
Versatile Side Dish: Herb rice complements the chicken beautifully and can be served with other proteins too.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra portions for delicious leftovers that reheat well without losing flavor.
Family-Friendly: The mild flavors appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone will enjoy their meal.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Measuring cups
Wooden spoon
Serving plates

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A good skillet allows even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown sear on the chicken.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure your ingredients are balanced for optimal flavor.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware, ensuring easy mixing of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
Juice of 2 lemons
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Herb Rice

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt to taste

How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides—about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté briefly until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice while scraping any browned bits from the pan. Stir in heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Combine and Cook

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes until fully cooked through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Make the Herb Rice

In a separate pot, combine rice, chicken broth (or vegetable broth), and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook according to package instructions until fluffy.

Step 5: Serve

Fluff the herb rice with a fork before serving alongside creamy lemon garlic chicken. Enjoy this delicious meal!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice

Serving Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and presentation.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Use chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch that brightens the dish.

Add a Side Salad

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy chicken and adds texture.

Offer Crusty Bread

Serve slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.

Include Steamed Vegetables

Brightly colored steamed veggies like broccoli or carrots add nutritional value and color to the plate.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice

To make your Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice even better, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance the overall flavor compared to dried versions.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to ensure a well-balanced flavor.
Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking for juicier meat before slicing.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh; serve it right after preparing for optimal creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice can create a satisfying meal. Here are some great options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the richness of the chicken.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a crunchy texture and vibrant flavor.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing provides a healthy contrast.
Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini slices bring out a smoky flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the main dish.
Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with herbs makes an easy and delightful accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid using the wrong chicken cut. Always choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender and creamy texture.
Don’t forget about seasoning properly. Insufficient seasoning can make your dish bland. Use salt, pepper, and herbs generously.
Skipping the sauce reduction is a mistake. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to enhance its flavors before serving.
Avoid overcooking the rice. Cook it just until tender; overcooked rice can become mushy and spoil the dish’s texture.
Don’t neglect fresh herbs. Using dried herbs instead of fresh can diminish the vibrant flavor of your herb rice.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Let the dish cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice

Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
Label with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot. Stir in between to ensure even heating.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice?
Serve it warm with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for balance.

Can I customize the herb rice?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite herbs or even some sautéed vegetables for extra flavor.

Is there a substitute for garlic in this recipe?
You can use garlic powder as an alternative if fresh garlic is unavailable.

How long does it take to make Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice?
The total time is about 40 minutes, including preparation and cooking.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute turkey or beef if you prefer different meats.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herb Rice is not only delicious but also versatile. It allows for various customization options, such as different proteins or additional vegetables. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its delightful flavors!