Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the aromatic goodness of rice pilaf? Look no further! Our luscious lemon chicken with aromatic rice pilaf recipe is the perfect choice.

Whether you are cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself and your family to a mouthwatering dish, this recipe will not disappoint. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of preparing this delectable meal.

Ingredients:

For the Lemon Chicken:.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 lemons
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Aromatic Rice Pilaf:.

1 cup long-grain basmati rice
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Lemon Chicken:

1. Start by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a small bowl, combine the juice and zest of one lemon, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

2. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is evenly coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the chicken.

3. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Grill the chicken for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Set the cooked chicken aside to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Aromatic Rice Pilaf:

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch from the rice and prevents it from sticking together.

2. In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin seeds, and turmeric powder. Sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

3. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir it well to coat each grain with the fragrant butter mixture. Cook the rice for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to fluff up.

6. Lastly, stir in the frozen peas and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Serving:

Place a generous portion of the aromatic rice pilaf onto each plate. Slice the luscious lemon chicken breasts and arrange them over the rice. Optionally, you can garnish with fresh lemon slices and cilantro leaves for an extra touch of freshness.

Enjoy this delightful culinary creation with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Health Benefits:

Aside from its mouthwatering taste, this dish also offers several health benefits. Chicken is a lean protein source that helps in muscle growth and repair.

Lemons are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which can support immune system health and enhance skin health. The aromatic rice pilaf contains spices like cumin and turmeric, known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, basmati rice is a long-grain variety that is lower in calories and has a lower glycemic index compared to other types of rice.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the delightful flavors of our luscious lemon chicken with aromatic rice pilaf. This recipe perfectly combines the tanginess of lemon with the aromatic goodness of rice pilaf.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare. Enjoy its health benefits and the satisfaction of creating a mouthwatering dish from scratch. Bon appétit!.