Who doesn’t want a simple and delicious dish that can be easily served on the table on a busy weeknight? This lemon chicken casserole is just such a dish. It perfectly combines tender chicken, refreshing lemon and fragrant seasoning. It is baked in one pot, saving time and effort, but the taste is layered and unforgettable.
Contents
The charm of this dish
- One pot, simple and fast: Put all the ingredients in the same baking pan, the flavors penetrate each other during the baking process, and the cleanup work is greatly simplified.
- The perfect balance of sour and creamy: The fresh sour taste of lemon and the silky taste of cream complement each other, bringing a burst of taste.
- Suitable for the whole family: The warm and comfortable taste is perfect for busy family dinners, and it is also suitable for preparing bento boxes for the next day.
Material preparation
| Ingredients | Amount | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast (cut into pieces) | 1 pound (about 450 grams) | Boneless and skinless |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Seasoning |
| Lemon pepper seasoning | 2 teaspoons | Homemade lemon pepper is recommended for better flavor |
| Chicken broth | 2.5 cups | Provides moist texture and umami |
| White rice | 1 cup | Can be replaced with brown rice, need to adjust the liquid ratio |
| Lemon juice | 3 tablespoons | Freshly squeezed, adds fragrance |
| Melted butter | 3 tablespoons | Adds rich taste |
| Lemon zest | 1 tablespoon | Brings lemon aroma |
| Minced garlic | 1 tablespoon | Enhances flavor |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | Adds layers |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon | Gives herbal aroma |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Mildly spicy |
| Thyme | 1/2 teaspoon | Delicate aroma |
| Lemon slices | 1 lemon sliced thinly | Place on the surface after baking to add visual and flavor |
Production steps
1. Preparation
- Preheat oven to 375°F (about 190°C).
- Spray nonstick spray in a 9×13-inch (about 23×33 cm) baking dish.
2. Mix the basic ingredients
- Pour chicken broth, white rice, lemon juice, melted butter, lemon zest, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, dried basil, black pepper and thyme into the baking dish and stir to combine.
3. Prepare the chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and lemon pepper and spread evenly.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the baking dish and gently mix with the other ingredients.
4. Bake
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes.
- After removing the baking sheet, evenly spread the lemon slices on the surface of the chicken and place it in the oven again for 5 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Rest and Serve
- Remove the baking sheet and let it rest for 5 minutes to let the flavors blend better.
- Serve directly on the table with simple vegetables or salad.
Slow Cooker Version (Optional)
- Prepare the ingredients as above and pour them all into the slow cooker.
- Cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, until the rice is soft and the chicken is cooked.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely and seal in the freezer for up to 2 months. Refrigerate and defrost before serving.
- Reheating method: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (about 175°C) for about 20 minutes, or microwave in stages to prevent drying.
Tips
- Lemon pepper seasoning: Homemade lemon pepper flavor is better, simply mix lemon zest and black pepper.
- Rice option: When using brown rice, add 1/4 cup of liquid and extend the baking time to 40-45 minutes.
- Flavor adjustment: You can add or reduce lemon juice and vanilla according to your preference to create your own taste.
This lemon chicken casserole is like a light summer ditty, sweet and sour, fresh and warm. It not only satisfies the desire for deliciousness, but also brings a touch of relaxation to busy life. Use the simplest ingredients to cook the richest flavor, making every meal a wonderful moment of family gathering.
