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When it comes to quick, satisfying meals that deliver a burst of flavor, few dishes can compete with the Honey Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet. This delightful recipe marries the zesty brightness of lemon with the natural sweetness of honey, creating a harmonious balance that tantalizes the taste buds. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also serves as a comforting meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week or even at special gatherings, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Honey Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet

Discover a delightful meal with the Honey Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet! This easy recipe blends the zesty brightness of lemon with the sweet richness of honey, creating the perfect balance of flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish is versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins. With fragrant jasmine rice and tender chicken, it promises to impress both family and guests alike. Enjoy a comforting meal that’s nutritious and bursting with flavor!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup white rice (preferably jasmine or basmati)

2 cups chicken broth

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately the juice from 2 lemons)

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup snap peas or peas (optional for added texture and color)

1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions
 

Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

    Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan, stirring continuously to avoid burning. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and lightly golden.

      Combine Ingredients: Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the aromatic garlic and ginger. Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the honey, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and soy sauce. Mix everything well to ensure the rice is evenly distributed and all ingredients are combined.

        Simmer the Rice: Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes. The rice should become tender and absorb most of the liquid. If using snap peas, add them to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow them to cook lightly without losing their crunch.

          Return the Chicken: After the rice is done cooking, remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Gently fold in the previously cooked chicken pieces. Cover the skillet again for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through.

            Serve: Remove from heat and garnish the dish with thinly sliced green onions and additional lemon slices if desired. This dish not only provides vibrant flavors but also looks stunning on the plate. Enjoy your delightful Honey Lemon Chicken and Rice Skillet!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings