Lemon Chicken and Rice

This one pan Lemon Chicken and Rice stir fry is super easy and bursting with flavor! Loaded with vegetables too! The rice is hearts of palm providing an extra veggie and keeping this lemon chicken and rice recipe low carb, Paleo and Whole30 friendly. Tender chicken bites with broccoli, peppers and a kiss of oregano complementing the tangy, lemony sauce. Do you love a lemony sauce? Try this Chicken Meatballs in Garlic Lemon Sauce.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I love knowing my family is getting a high protein, low carb meal that is loaded with vegetables and bursting with flavor. It's like our go-to lemon chicken with rice, and the best part is, it is ready in 30 minutes making it the perfect quick and easy meal for those hectic weekday nights!

Ingredients You Will Need

Chicken: is a lean cut of meat from the chicken that can be baked, grilled or poached and is so versatile. I like Grass Roots Coop for all my meat!

Extra virgin olive oil: is the least processed form of olive oil. I like Garcia de la Cruz .

Shallot: are a type of onion that are a member of the allium family. Closely related to garlic, chives and onions. Having a mild, savory flavor with garlic undertones.

Bell pepper: are a member of the nightshade family and are related to tomatoes. They can be green, red, yellow or orange eaten cooked or raw.

Broccoli: is an edible green plant from the cabbage family that has a large flowering head and thick stalk. I used frozen in this recipe.

Hearts of palm rice: is typically made from one ingredient, hearts of palm (or the core of certain types of palm trees). I like Eat Natural Heaven hearts of palm products.

Parsley: brings a burst of fresh, herby goodness and is used as both a garnish and an addition to various dishes, from salads and sauces to soups and stews.

Lemon: adds a fresh, bright, and tangy element, which can help balance the richness of the lemon chicken and rice you’re preparing.

Garlic powder: is best for when you want a milder flavor that will also coat meats easier for sautéing or quickly frying.

Oregano: is an intensely flavored herb, ground oregano brings a peppery bite and a slightly sweet, earthy aroma to the dish.

Salt and black pepper: salt enhances the overall flavor of the dish and ground black pepper adds a gentle heat.

Instructions

Cut the chicken: into bite sized pieces, pat dry and then toss with the salt and pepper.

Heat the olive oil: in a large skillet.

Add the chicken: an cook till browning on all sides and move the chicken to a plate.

Place the shallot: peppers and broccoli in the same pan and cook till the broccoli is thawed.

Put the chicken: back in the pan along with the hearts of palm rice, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano and parsley for a delightful lemon chicken and rice fusion.

Stir together well: cover and simmer for ten minutes, stirring occasionally.

Garnish: with more parsley and lemon slices if desired.

Enjoy!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Using frozen broccoli: helps make this meal come together quickly. You can certainly use fresh however, I recommend steaming it before adding it to the pan.

Be sure your lemon: is extra large or use 2 smaller ones as the lemon juice is what provides the sauce for this lemony chicken and rice. Alternately, you can add some chicken broth.

Recipe Variations

Chicken thighs: can be used instead of chicken breast in this lemon chicken and rice dish.

Pre-cooked rice: is a perfect option if you are not concerned about keeping this recipe Paleo and Whole30 friendly.

Fresh oregano: will provide a stronger flavor profile than the dried.

Green beans: make a great alternative to the broccoli.

Storage Tips

You can store this lemon chicken and rice in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days when placed in an airtight glass container. It also freezes well for up to 6 months.

FAQs About Lemon Chicken and Rice

What vegetables go well with lemon chicken?

Green beans, broccoli, cabbage or spinach all go well with lemon chicken and rice recipes.

What herbs go best with lemon chicken?

Parsley, oregano, dill, basil or chives work well with the lemon to brighten up the dish.

Does lemon get bitter when cooked?

Yes, a lemon can become bitter when cooked, therefore it is important not to zest into the white part of the skin known as the pith.