Description

This One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Caramelized Lemon is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish featuring juicy chicken thighs, aromatic rice, and a tangy, sweet twist from caramelized lemon slices. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special family meal, this dish combines rich flavors and minimal cleanup, all cooked in one pot. Impress your guests or enjoy a comforting dinner with this simple, yet delicious recipe.

Ingredients

For the Dish:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup long-grain white rice

1 1/2 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)

2 lemons, thinly sliced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot, skin side down. Cook until the skin is golden brown and crisp, about 5 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Toast the Rice:
Stir in the rice, allowing it to toast lightly for 2-3 minutes.
Add Liquids and Return Chicken:
Pour in the chicken broth and wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Return the chicken thighs to the pot, placing them on top of the rice. Arrange the lemon slices around the chicken.
Simmer:
Bring to a simmer, then cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice has absorbed the liquid.
Finish and Serve:
Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Notes

Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.

Add More Veggies: Add extra vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for a more vibrant dish.

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a few slices of jalapeño for added heat.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mediterranean