Lemon Ginger Chicken with Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Ginger Chicken with Rice is the kind of simple-yet-satisfying meal that checks all the right boxes. It’s fresh, flavorful, and fuss-free a perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep hero. With bright citrus notes and a subtle zing from the ginger, the chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy, seasoned rice for a balanced and comforting plate.

Pure Comfort

Think of this as your go-to feel-good dish. The tender chicken is juicy with a tangy marinade, while the warm rice absorbs every bit of lemony goodness. The aroma alone feels like home. Whether served in a bowl or plated with steamed veggies, this dish is cozy, clean, and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
2 boneless chicken breasts
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice:
1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
2 cups water or chicken broth
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp olive oil or butter
Chopped parsley or green onions (optional, for garnish)

What You Need

A non-stick skillet or grill pan, mixing bowl, medium saucepan, and a cutting board that’s it. No fancy tools required!

Time to Cook

🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 25 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 35 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 2

Steps to Make It

1. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, zest, ginger, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken and marinate for 15–30 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, cook the rice: bring water or broth to a boil, add rice, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add marinated chicken, and cook for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest, then slice.
6. Fluff rice, spoon into bowls or plates, and top with sliced chicken. Garnish as desired.

Make It Perfect

• Don’t skip the marinade it’s where the magic happens.
• Use chicken broth instead of water in your rice for extra flavor.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing to lock in the juices.

Mix It Up

Swap the white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a different base. Add steamed broccoli or a fried egg on top for a rice bowl-style upgrade.

Perfect Partners

Pair with something cool and refreshing like this Refreshing Iced Coffee Recipe or follow up with a fruity treat like the Creamy Cool Whip Pie Recipe.

Busy Day Hero

Short on time? Marinate the chicken the night before. Store in a sealed bag in the fridge and dinner’s halfway done when you get home.

Work Ahead

Make a double batch of rice and grilled chicken, store separately, and enjoy variations throughout the week rice bowls, wraps, or even salads.

Save Some For Later

Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers. Keeps well for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop.

Everyone’s Happy

It’s mild enough for picky eaters, yet flavorful enough for foodies. It’s a family dinner win!

Good For You Too

Lean protein, anti-inflammatory ginger, and wholesome grains make this a nutrient-rich choice you can feel good about.

Easy Clean Up

One pan, one pot, and done. Simple, smart, and mess-free.

Switch It Up

Try adding sesame oil, soy sauce, and chopped veggies to turn this into a quick Asian-inspired stir fry. Or go Mediterranean by replacing ginger with oregano and adding feta on top.

Simply Perfect

Bright, savory, and endlessly versatile Lemon Ginger Chicken with Rice is a kitchen staple that delivers every time.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely thighs will be even juicier and take slightly longer to cook.

Q2: What’s the best rice to pair with it?
Jasmine or basmati for fragrance, or brown rice for a healthier option.

Q3: Can I cook the chicken in the oven?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or until cooked through.

Q4: Is it good for meal prep?
It’s perfect! Store in containers and reheat as needed throughout the week.

Q5: Can I make it spicy?
Add chili flakes or a bit of sriracha to the marinade for a kick.

Q6: What veggies pair well with it?
Broccoli, snow peas, carrots, or sautéed spinach are great choices.

Conclusion

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a chill weekend dinner, this Lemon Ginger Chicken with Rice delivers bold flavor with everyday ingredients. Fresh, fast, and fantastically easy it’s a dish you’ll crave on repeat.

Happy cooking with Rita chef ❤️!