Imagine a dinner that's not just a meal, but a culinary journey that transforms your kitchen into a gourmet haven! This Steamed Lemon Chicken and Rice Dinner is about to revolutionize your weeknight cooking, offering a healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy-to-prepare dish that will make your taste buds dance with delight. With its bright citrus notes, tender steamed chicken, and perfectly cooked jasmine rice, this recipe is your ticket to a restaurant-quality meal without ever leaving home!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, then drain well.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with chicken broth and half of the fresh lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- While rice is cooking, set up a steamer basket over boiling water. Make sure the water does not touch the bottom of the basket.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the steamer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Cover and steam for 15-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the steamer and let it rest for 3-4 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and drizzle the remaining lemon juice over the rice.
- Slice the chicken breasts and arrange over the lemon rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy your steamed lemon chicken and rice dinner.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) for food safety and maximum juiciness.
- Rice Rinsing Trick: Thoroughly rinsing the jasmine rice removes excess starch, guaranteeing fluffy, separated grains every single time.
- Steaming Secrets: Don't let the water touch the bottom of the steamer basket - this ensures even, gentle cooking that keeps the chicken incredibly moist.
- Lemon Love: Use fresh lemons for the brightest, most vibrant flavor. Roll the lemons on the counter before juicing to maximize juice extraction.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the chicken rest for 3-4 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and tender.
- Garnish Game: Fresh parsley isn't just for looks - it adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the lemon perfectly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 46g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
