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Discover the delightful fusion of flavors in this Zesty Creamy Lemon Chicken & Rice recipe, a perfect dish for family dinners or entertaining guests. Combining tender chicken thighs with fragrant rice, zesty lemon, and a rich creamy sauce, this one-pan meal is not only easy to prepare but also a feast for the senses. The balance of savory and tangy notes, along with the comforting creaminess, makes this dish a standout in any culinary repertoire.

Creamy Lemon Chicken and Rice

Elevate your dinner with this Zesty Creamy Lemon Chicken & Rice recipe! This one-pan meal combines juicy chicken thighs, fluffy jasmine rice, and a rich, creamy lemon sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Easy to make and packed with brightness from fresh lemon juice and zesty herbs, this dish is ideal for family dinners or entertaining friends. Follow simple steps to craft this delightful experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy cooking and sharing this flavorful dish!
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Ingredients
  

1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup long-grain rice (jasmine or basmati)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 lemon (zest and juice)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt, freshly ground pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Ensure that each piece is evenly coated with the seasonings for enhanced flavor.

    Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs to the pan, searing them for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure it does not burn.

        Cook the Rice: Stir the rice into the onion and garlic mixture, allowing it to cook for 1-2 minutes until it becomes slightly golden and fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

          Combine Ingredients: Once the liquid reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and carefully return the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed the liquid and is tender.

            Make It Creamy: After the rice is cooked, uncover the skillet and stir in the heavy cream. Mix thoroughly so that the creamy sauce envelops the rice and chicken. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, giving it time to thicken slightly.

              Garnish and Serve: Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve the zesty creamy lemon chicken and rice hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for an added burst of color and flavor.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce, and consider placing a lemon wedge on the side for an extra zesty touch. A sprinkle of fresh parsley will enhance both color and freshness.