RECIPES - Springtime One-Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken & Rice

Springtime One-Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken & Rice

With daylight savings time having just passed, that little extra bit of light in the evening makes this one a double winner. The fragrant smell of refreshing aroma of lemon filling the kitchen. I just love it... By the way, lemon squeezing is a great job for the kids! Young and old alike, they love to just mush things in the kitchen, don't they? If time allows you can even have them squeeze some extra, for a lemonade treat with dinner. Or maybe lemon popsicles after. 

Well, this classic dish is both a time saver and a clean up joy. It's so easy to make in just one pot. You'll love that it's a quick, nutritious meal, but kids just love the rich flavor. 

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup rice (white or brown)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup frozen peas
• ½ tsp salt & ½ tsp black pepper
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Optional: chopped parsley or grated Parmesan for garnish

I can't do without the optionals... try it! Let me know what you think!

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side).
2. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and rice, stirring well. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes (until rice is cooked).
5. Stir in frozen peas and lemon juice, then let sit for 2 minutes.
6. Fluff with a fork, garnish as desired, and serve warm!

Time-Saving Tip: Swap fresh garlic for pre-minced garlic or garlic powder when in a rush!

© Kaitlyn Jorgensen