Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts work great for this recipe. However, bone-in pieces give deeper flavor and juiciness. If using boneless chicken breasts, reduce the baking time to 20–25 minutes to prevent dryness.

Is this chicken and rice recipe gluten-free?

This one-pot lemon chicken and rice dish is naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free chicken broth. It’s a perfect option for a healthy gluten-free dinner.

Can I make this chicken and rice dish ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is meal-prep friendly. You can assemble it ahead and refrigerate before baking. If cooking from chilled, add an extra 5–8 minutes to the bake time.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave with a splash of broth or reheat gently in a covered skillet on low heat. It’s freezer-friendly for up to 2 months!

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook. You’ll need to increase the liquid slightly and extend the cooking time by 15–20 minutes. Consider parboiling it beforehand to save time.

Easy One-Pot Chicken and Rice With Caramelized Lemon

Name: Easy One-Pot Chicken and Rice With Caramelized Lemon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 lemon, thinly sliced; 1 tsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati); 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; ½ tsp turmeric (optional, for color); 1 tsp dried thyme or oregano; Salt to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon zest

Jump to Recipe

Today I want to share a great chicken recipe that is easy to make but delicious. Easy, delicious, and satisfying weeknight dinners that don’t leave a mountain of food behind. This One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Caramelized Lemon is packed with juicy, golden-seared chicken thighs, fluffy seasoned rice, and bright, zesty caramelized lemon slices, this healthy chicken and rice dinner is made in just one pot and is packed with the ultimate in flavor.

This easy lemon chicken and rice recipe delivers comfort, nutrition, and minimal cleanup — all in less than 1 hour. The citrus flavor of the caramelized lemon adds a sweet-savory balance that spice up the dish beyond your typical chicken and rice recipe. Also, this lemon chicken rice is perfect for those looking for gluten-free, dairy-free, or Mediterranean-inspired dinner ideas.

Why This One-Pot Chicken and Rice With Caramelized Lemon

If you’re searching for the perfect easy chicken dinner recipe that combines wholesome ingredients with maximum flavor, this One-Pot Chicken and Rice With Caramelized Lemon is your new go-to. It’s zesty, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying — all while being made in a single pot for minimal cleanup!

One-Pot Convenience: Say goodbye to a sink-full of dishes. This recipe keeps your kitchen tidy and your cleanup quick.
Zesty Lemon Flavor: Caramelized lemon slices add a sweet-tart twist that perfectly balances the savory rice and juicy chicken.
Healthy and Balanced: With lean protein, complex carbs, and citrus antioxidants, it’s a heart-healthy one-pot meal option.
Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well in the fridge and freezer, making it ideal for batch cooking and weekly planning.
Perfect for All Skill Levels: If you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, the step-by-step method makes success simple.

One-Pot Chicken and Rice With Caramelized Lemon Recipe

📋 Ingredients Needed

Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Caramelized Lemon. Using everyday pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, this dish is the perfect mix of zesty citrus and hearty protein.

🍗 For the Chicken:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp olive oil

🍋 For the Caramelized Lemon:

1 lemon, thinly sliced (seeds removed)
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp olive oil

🍚 For the Rice Base:

1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ tsp turmeric (optional, for color)
1 tsp dried thyme or oregano
Salt to taste

🌿 Optional Garnishes:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon zest or wedges

💡 Tip: Always use fresh lemon slices for the best citrus aroma, and sear chicken until the skin is golden brown to lock in juicy flavor.

🛡️ For accurate food safety and internal chicken temperature guidance, visit the official USDA Safe Cooking Temperature Guidelines.

Related: Mediterranean Diet Recipes

👩‍🍳 How to Make One-Pot Chicken and Rice With Caramelized Lemon (Step-by-Step)

Follow this easy, step-by-step guide to create a healthy and flavorful one-pot chicken and rice dinner with zesty caramelized lemons. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Pat them dry for best searing.
In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken skin-side down for 4–5 minutes, flip, and cook another 2 minutes. Set aside.
Add lemon slices to the pan with 1 tsp olive oil and a drizzle of honey. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until golden and slightly sticky. Remove and set aside.
Sauté chopped onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes in the same pan until soft and fragrant.
Stir in rice, turmeric, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Let toast for 1 minute to enhance flavor.
Pour in chicken broth and mix well. Nestle seared chicken thighs on top. Arrange caramelized lemon slices over and around the chicken.
Cover the pan tightly with a lid or foil. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked to 165°F (75°C).
Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest before serving. Enjoy!

💡 Pro Tip: For crispy chicken skin, broil the dish uncovered for the final 3 minutes!

Related: Tuna Salad Recipes

🌿 Expert Tips & Tricks for Perfect One-Pot Chicken and Rice

Want to take your One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Caramelized Lemon from good to gourmet? These tested cooking tips will help you achieve tender, juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and rich lemony flavor every single time.

Crispy Chicken Skin Secret: Pat the chicken dry and sear skin-side down in hot oil until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
No Soggy Rice: Toast the rice for 1–2 minutes with aromatics before adding broth. This helps it absorb flavors while staying light and fluffy.
Perfect Caramelized Lemons: Use a non-stick pan and thin slices of lemon. Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to balance the tartness.
Use the Right Pan: A deep, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven retains heat and cooks everything evenly. Avoid shallow pans that can burn the rice.
Add Flavor Layers: Don’t skip herbs like thyme or oregano. They infuse the rice with earthy depth, making this dish taste like it simmered all day.

🍋 Flavor Variations for One-Pot Chicken and Rice With Caramelized Lemon

Want to switch things up or add your own spin to this easy one-pot chicken and rice recipe? Here are some delicious and healthy variations of lemon chicken and rice you can try! If you prefer Mediterranean flavors, a touch of spice, or a vegetarian twist, these ideas will keep your meals simple and hassle-free.

🌿 Mediterranean Style

Add kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese before baking. The briny-salty contrast complements the caramelized lemon chicken beautifully.

🌶️ Spicy Lemon Chicken

Add ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes and a pinch of cayenne to the rice mixture. For extra heat, finish with sliced jalapeños or chili oil drizzle.

🌱 Vegetarian Option

Replace chicken with canned chickpeas or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a flavor-packed vegetarian lemon rice recipe.

🧄 Garlic Herb Twist

Stir in fresh rosemary, thyme, and roasted garlic for an earthy boost. This variation pairs well with white wine and roasted vegetables.

🥬 Veggie-Packed Power Bowl

Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the rice. A great way to enjoy a healthy one-pot lemon chicken meal loaded with veggies.

No matter which variation you try, these custom chicken and rice flavor ideas make the recipe your own while still staying quick, wholesome, and utterly delicious!

Suggested: Classic Pavlova Recipe

🥗 Serving Suggestions for One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Caramelized Lemon

Thinking what to serve with chicken and rice? This vibrant and zesty dish pairs beautifully with light, fresh, and colorful sides. Serve this one-pot lemon chicken dinner for guests or meal prepping for the week, these serving suggestions bring balance and variety.

🥗 Crisp Green Salad

Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers with a light lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing side dish that complements the citrus flavor of the chicken.

🧄 Garlic Yogurt Dip

Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with garlic, lemon juice, and herbs. This creamy dip adds a cool contrast to the warm and savory rice.

🍞 Toasted Pita or Crusty Bread

Perfect for soaking up every bit of the flavorful lemony broth. Toast lightly and brush with olive oil for extra taste.

🍷 Lemon-Infused Sparkling Water or White Wine

Pair this dish with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a sparkling citrus mocktail to enhance the zesty lemon profile.

Suggested: Parmesan Egg Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions on One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Caramelized Lemon

Yield: 4

Easy One-Pot Chicken and Rice With Caramelized Lemon Recipe

This One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Caramelized Lemon is a zesty, comforting, and wholesome dish made with golden seared chicken thighs, fluffy rice, and sweet-tangy lemon slices. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that's easy to make, mess-free, and loaded with flavor — all in a single pot!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Caramelized Lemon:

1 lemon, thinly sliced
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp olive oil

For the Rice:

1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati)
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
½ tsp turmeric (optional, for color)
1 tsp dried thyme or oregano
Salt to taste

Optional Garnishes:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon zest

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the Chicken:
Pat chicken thighs dry. Rub with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Sear the Chicken:
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken, skin-side down, and sear for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook another 2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Caramelize the Lemons:
In the same pan, add lemon slices with 1 tsp olive oil and drizzle of honey. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and slightly sticky. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
Add chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté 2–3 minutes until translucent.
Add Rice & Spices:
Stir in rice, turmeric, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Let the rice toast slightly for 1 minute.
Add Broth & Assemble:
Pour in chicken broth and stir. Nestle the seared chicken on top of the rice. Arrange caramelized lemon slices over and around the chicken.
Bake Covered:
Cover the pot with a lid or foil. Bake in the oven for 25–30 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).
Rest and Serve:
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and lemon zest before serving.

Notes

Rice Type: Use long-grain rice for fluffy texture. Avoid short-grain or sticky rice.
Crispy Skin: For extra crisp, uncover and broil for 3–4 minutes at the end.
Flavor Boost: Add a bay leaf or a cinnamon stick while cooking the rice.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

Variations

Herb Swap: Use rosemary, sage, or Italian seasoning in place of thyme.
Protein Switch: Substitute with boneless chicken thighs or even shrimp (add shrimp in the last 10 minutes only).
Veggie Add-In: Stir in frozen peas, baby spinach, or diced bell peppers with the rice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or Greek yogurt dip on the side.
A chilled glass of white wine or mint lemonade complements the lemony flavor beautifully.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 221Total Fat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 42mgSodium: 387mgCarbohydrates: 23gFiber: 2gSugar: 6gProtein: 12g

Related: Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

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One-Pot Chicken and Rice With Caramelized Lemon (Easy & Flavor-Packed Dinner!)

Why This One-Pot Chicken and Rice With Caramelized Lemon