Garlic Herb Chicken Rice Skillet (Print Version)

One-pan chicken, tender rice, and fresh herbs make a flavorful, satisfying dinner for any night.

# Components:

→ Chicken

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
02 - 1 teaspoon salt
03 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

→ Aromatics & Herbs

05 - 3 tablespoons olive oil
06 - 4 garlic cloves, minced
07 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
08 - 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
09 - 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
10 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish

→ Rice & Broth

11 - 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
12 - 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
13 - 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped (optional)
14 - Zest of 1 lemon
15 - Juice of 1/2 lemon

# Directions:

01 - Evenly season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
02 - Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
03 - Lower heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Sauté the onion for 2 to 3 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute until herbs are aromatic.
04 - Stir in the rinsed rice and cook for 1 minute, allowing the grains to toast lightly in the aromatics.
05 - Pour in the chicken broth along with lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring mixture to a simmer.
06 - Nestle the seared chicken thighs into the rice mixture. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
07 - If using, add baby spinach and chopped parsley during the final 2 minutes of cooking. Stir gently to combine.
08 - Remove skillet from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Garnish with additional parsley before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy cleanup since it cooks in one skillet
  • Every ingredient adds to deep savory taste
  • Gluten free and balanced enough for family dinner
  • Hearty and filling but brightened with lemon and fresh parsley
  • Ready in under an hour so it fits a busy schedule
02 -
  • Loaded with protein and whole grains for lasting energy
  • Lemon and herbs add antioxidant power
  • Leftovers store well and taste even better next day
03 -
  • Always rinse rice until water turns clear for fluffy grains
  • Do not rush searing chicken. A proper golden crust means deeper flavor throughout
  • Toast your rice in the herby oil. This tiny step is a game changer and makes a difference in both taste and aroma

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