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In the world of home cooking, few dishes strike the perfect balance between vibrant flavors and comforting familiarity quite like Zesty Lemon Parmesan Chicken & Rice. This delightful recipe showcases the zesty brightness of fresh lemons, the savory depth of Parmesan cheese, and the heartiness of chicken and rice, making it an ideal choice for both casual weeknight meals and special occasions. The combination of these ingredients creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience.

Lemon Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Discover the delicious balance of flavors in Zesty Lemon Parmesan Chicken & Rice, a dish that brightens up weeknight meals and impresses on special occasions. This recipe features juicy chicken, aromatic lemon, and creamy Parmesan, creating a delightful culinary experience. Perfectly marinated and seared, it pairs beautifully with fluffy rice and can be enhanced with fresh herbs and a crisp salad. Enjoy a dish that's both satisfying and bursting with flavor!
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth

1 large lemon (zested and juiced)

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the juice of the lemon, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or for up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.

    Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked rice, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until all the broth has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and fluff.

      Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken breasts, discarding any excess marinade. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the surface is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For thicker chicken breasts, you may need to cover the skillet with a lid during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they cook all the way through.

        Add Cheese: Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the breasts. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Allow the cheese to melt for about 2-3 minutes.

          Serve: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it among four plates. Place a hearty piece of the cheesy lemon chicken on top of the rice. Finish by garnishing with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.

            Enjoy: To elevate the dish, drizzle any remaining juices from the skillet over the chicken and rice before serving, enhancing both flavor and moisture.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 mins | 1 hr | 4 servings