Lemon Chicken And Rice
A bright and flavorful lemon chicken and rice dish with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and zesty lemon, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal for the family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chicken strips and diced onion in margarine until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cornstarch and cook for 1 minute.
- Add chicken broth, sliced carrot, lemon juice, and salt; bring to a full boil.
- Stir in snow pea pods, chopped parsley, and minute rice.
- Cover and let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary while sautéing the chicken and onion. If Minute rice isn't available, regular rice can be used; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can substitute snow pea pods with green beans or broccoli if desired. For a richer sauce, use butter instead of margarine.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Lemon Chicken and Rice dish with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a light white wine or sparkling water. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or rolls. It's a great addition to a dinner party menu or family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out and microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish is perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Chicken And Rice contains roughly 1097 calories, with 13g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover cooked chicken is perfect for this dish. Just add it towards the end to heat through without overcooking it. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor since the chicken will absorb the lemon and broth flavors.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain the flavor. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the dish without the meat.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth mixture. You can also sauté some chopped jalapeños with the onions for a fresh kick. Adjust the spice level to your preference for a personalized touch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).