Skillet Lemon Chicken with Spinach & Rice

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Skillet Lemon Chicken with Spinach & Rice: Quick & Flavorful One-Pan Meal

Introduction

Craving a bright, savory, and comforting meal? This Skillet Lemon Chicken with Spinach & Rice combines tender chicken breasts, fluffy rice, and fresh spinach in a zesty lemon-infused sauce, all cooked in a single skillet. Ready in under 35 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or a simple meal prep option.

What makes this recipe special is its one-pan convenience and vibrant flavor. The lemon juice and zest brighten the dish, while the rice absorbs the savory chicken juices and sauce, creating a rich, aromatic, and satisfying meal. This dish is nutritious, filling, and easy to prepare, ideal for busy cooks who want delicious meals with minimal cleanup.

Serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner. Its quick cooking time, balanced ingredients, and simple technique make it a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

Origins and Background

Lemon chicken is a classic dish in many cuisines, often associated with Mediterranean and Italian cooking. The combination of citrus with chicken provides a refreshing contrast to the savory protein, while adding rice and greens transforms it into a complete, wholesome meal.

Fun fact: Cooking chicken and rice together allows the rice to absorb the juices and flavors from the chicken, resulting in a moist, flavorful, and cohesive dish. Adding spinach at the end keeps it vibrant and tender, maximizing both flavor and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked together.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 35 minutes.
Bright & Flavorful: Zesty lemon complements tender chicken and rice.
Nutritious & Balanced: Protein from chicken, fiber from rice and spinach.
Family-Friendly: Mild yet savory flavors everyone will enjoy.
Customizable: Add vegetables or adjust seasoning to taste.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Leftovers reheat well for lunches or dinners.
Visually Appealing: Bright greens and golden chicken create an appetizing dish.

Ingredients & Equipment

For the Lemon Chicken with Spinach & Rice

  • 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into pieces or left whole
  • 1 cup long-grain rice (e.g., basmati or jasmine)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional)
  • Optional garnish: lemon slices or chopped fresh parsley

Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Pro Tips

  • Use chicken breasts of similar size for even cooking.
  • Rinse rice to remove excess starch for fluffier results.
  • Add spinach at the end to maintain color and texture.
  • Adjust lemon juice for more or less brightness.
  • Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add to skillet and cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.

2. Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant. Avoid burning the garlic for a clean, aromatic flavor.

3. Cook the Rice

Add rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to coat in the garlic and oil. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, adding lemon zest. Bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Return Chicken to Skillet

Nestle seared chicken into the rice. Cover the skillet and cook 15–20 minutes over low heat until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

5. Add Spinach

Stir in fresh spinach and cover for 1–2 minutes until wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice as needed.

6. Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with lemon slices or fresh parsley. Pair with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

  • Chicken Undercooked: Ensure internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
  • Rice Undercooked: Add a splash of broth and cook a few extra minutes.
  • Spinach Wilted Too Much: Add it at the very end to maintain texture and color.
  • Flavor Too Mild: Increase lemon juice, zest, or seasonings to taste.
  • Rice Sticking to Skillet: Stir gently occasionally and use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned pan.

Variations & Customizations

  • Extra Vegetables: Add bell peppers, peas, or zucchini for color and nutrients.
  • Protein Swap: Use chicken thighs, turkey breast, or even shrimp for a twist.
  • Herb Twist: Fresh dill, parsley, or thyme enhances the flavor profile.
  • Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or Greek yogurt for richness.
  • Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic look, or plate individually for a more refined presentation. Arrange chicken pieces on top of the rice and drizzle with any remaining lemon sauce. Garnish with parsley or lemon slices for added freshness and visual appeal.

Pair with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or warm bread for a balanced, satisfying dinner. The bright greens and golden chicken make it colorful and appetizing.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave; add a splash of broth if rice is dry.
  • Make-Ahead: Prep chicken and vegetables in advance for quicker assembly.
  • Freezing: Not ideal for spinach; add fresh when reheating for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: Yes, adjust cooking time and liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but thaw completely for even cooking.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or peas work well.

Q: Can this be made low-carb?
A: Serve without rice or substitute cauliflower rice.

Conclusion

This Skillet Lemon Chicken with Spinach & Rice is a quick, flavorful, and healthy one-pan meal perfect for weeknights or meal prep. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and bright spinach come together in a zesty, satisfying dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Try it tonight for a stress-free, wholesome, and vibrant dinner that delivers bold lemon flavor, colorful presentation, and minimal cleanup.

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