Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken with Savory Rice Pilaf

50 1 minute read

This delicious lemon herb chicken paired with aromatic rice pilaf is the perfect dinner for any night of the week. Tender bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts are brushed with a bright and flavorful lemon-garlic herb butter, then baked to golden perfection. Served over a savory blend of rice, orzo pasta, and sautéed vegetables, this dish is satisfying, fresh, and easy to clean up after—ideal for busy evenings.

If you enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors, you’ll also want to try my Lemon Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Roasted Asparagus. Or, for fellow orzo lovers, the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This recipe is full of flavor, family-friendly, and made with easy-to-find pantry staples. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients:

Chicken breasts (bone-in, skin-on)
Butter, melted
Fresh thyme, minced garlic, chopped rosemary
Lemon (zest and juice)
Kosher salt and black pepper
Long grain rice
Orzo pasta
Onion and carrots, diced
Low-sodium chicken stock

Instructions:

Step 1: In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Step 2: Line a baking sheet with foil. Place chicken breasts on it and brush generously with the lemon herb butter. Bake until golden and cooked through.
Step 3: In a large, deep skillet, melt some butter. Add diced carrots and onions, cooking until slightly softened.
Step 4: Stir in garlic, rice, and orzo. Cook for a few minutes until they begin to lightly toast.
Step 5: Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender.
Step 6: Remove from heat and let sit, covered, to allow the rice to finish steaming. Fluff gently with a fork.
Step 7: Remove chicken from the oven.
Step 8: Serve chicken on top of the rice pilaf. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices if desired.

Tips & Tricks:

Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Add a splash of broth when reheating to retain moisture.
Spice it up with red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Dried herbs can be used if fresh ones aren’t available.