One Pan Lemon Pepper Yogurt Chicken and Rice – Easy, Flavorful, and Healthy Dinner

In a world where hectic schedules and never-ending to-do lists dominate our lives, the last thing anyone wants is a complicated, messy dinner. Enter your new best friend in the kitchen: One Pan Lemon Pepper Yogurt Chicken and Rice. Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly convenient, healthy, and guaranteed to be a hit with the entire family.

This one-pan wonder combines tender, juicy chicken with fragrant rice, a zesty lemon-pepper marinade, and the creamy tang of Greek yogurt. It’s comfort food made smarter and faster. If you’re searching for a simple yet satisfying meal, keep reading—because we’re about to deep dive into everything you need to know to master this One Pan Lemon Pepper Yogurt Chicken and Rice dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Before we get into the step-by-step process, let’s talk about why this dish is going to earn a permanent spot in your weekly rotation:

• ✅ One Pan Clean-Up – Who has time to wash multiple pots? This recipe keeps it clean and easy.
• ✅ Wholesome Ingredients – Lean chicken, probiotic-rich yogurt, and rice make it nutritious.
• ✅ Incredible Flavor – The combo of lemon, black pepper, and garlic is a flavor bomb.
• ✅ Perfectly Balanced Meal – You’ve got your protein, carbs, and fats all in one bite.
• ✅ Customizable – Add veggies, swap the rice, or spice it up—this recipe is your canvas.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s explore the core components that make One Pan Lemon Pepper Yogurt Chicken and Rice so memorable.

1. Chicken Thighs or Breasts (1 ½ pounds)

Both cuts work perfectly. Chicken thighs offer a bit more flavor and moisture, while chicken breasts keep things lean. Go with what suits your lifestyle.

2. Plain Greek Yogurt (1 cup)

Greek yogurt acts as a natural tenderizer, infusing the meat with moisture and tang. It’s also a healthier alternative to cream-based marinades.

3. Lemon Zest + Lemon Juice

This duo provides a bright citrus kick. The zest brings aromatic oils, while the juice gives an acidic balance to the creamy yogurt.

4. Cracked Black Pepper (1 tablespoon)

A star of the dish. The coarse grind of black pepper adds texture and a mild, spicy warmth that marries beautifully with lemon.

5. Garlic Powder + Onion Powder

Together, they add a savory backbone that rounds out the dish and complements the yogurt marinade.

6. Salt (1 teaspoon)

Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.

7. Long Grain White Rice (1 cup)

Jasmine or basmati rice holds up well during baking and absorbs all the rich juices from the chicken and broth.

8. Chicken Broth (2¼ cups)

Infuses the rice with depth and keeps everything moist.

9. Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)

Used for searing the chicken—this adds color and locks in flavor.

10. Fresh Herbs & Lemon Wedges

Finish with parsley or dill and lemon slices for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Marinate Like a Pro

The secret weapon of this dish is the marinade. Here’s how to make it just right:

• In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
• Toss in your chicken and ensure it’s fully coated.
• Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better for maximum flavor.

This step infuses the chicken with complex flavor and ensures that it stays tender throughout the cooking process.

The Art of the Sear

Searing is that step most home cooks skip—but trust us, it’s worth the few extra minutes.

• Heat your olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Remove the chicken from the marinade and gently shake off any excess.
• Sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until you see that golden crust. Don’t worry about cooking it all the way through—baking will finish the job.

Searing locks in flavor, gives the chicken that restaurant-quality edge, and enhances the final texture.

Cooking the Rice

Now that the chicken’s resting, it’s rice time:

• In the same skillet (don’t clean it—those bits are pure flavor gold), stir the rice for a minute to toast slightly.
• Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
• Nestle the seared chicken pieces right on top of the rice.

This method ensures that the rice becomes incredibly aromatic, absorbing all the chicken juices and seasonings as it bakes.

Time to Bake

You’re in the home stretch:

• Cover the pan tightly with foil or a fitted lid to trap moisture.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
• After baking, let it rest covered for 5 minutes to let everything settle.

This short rest allows the steam to fluff the rice and lets the juices redistribute in the chicken.

The Finishing Touches

Now comes the fun part—plating and garnishing:

• Sprinkle with chopped parsley or dill for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added citrusy burst.
• Pair with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or just eat as-is for a satisfying one-pan meal.

Tips to Elevate Your One Pan Lemon Pepper Yogurt Chicken and Rice

Even though this recipe is simple, a few tricks can make it extraordinary:

1. Don’t Skip the Marination Time

Longer marination = deeper flavor and juicier chicken.

2. Toast the Rice Before Adding Broth

This extra step boosts the rice’s nutty flavor.

3. Use Freshly Cracked Pepper

Pre-ground black pepper is fine, but freshly cracked pepper gives a bold, robust taste that really defines the dish.

4. Customize the Herbs

Try thyme, oregano, or even mint if you want to play with the flavor profile.

5. Add Vegetables

Spinach, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or peas can be tossed in before baking for an all-in-one meal.

Nutrition Breakdown (Approximate per serving)

Component	Amount
Calories	420–480
Protein	35g
Carbs	35g
Fats	18g
Fiber	2g

Note: Values vary based on the specific ingredients used.

This One Pan Lemon Pepper Yogurt Chicken and Rice recipe is balanced, high in protein, and lower in saturated fat, making it ideal for health-conscious eaters.

Variations to Try

This base recipe is super versatile. Try these twists:

🍗 Spicy Kick

Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinade.

🥦 Veggie Boost

Layer in broccoli, kale, or spinach before baking.

🍚 Grain Swap

Use quinoa or brown rice, but increase the baking time slightly and add more broth.

🧄 Garlic-Lovers’ Dream

Add minced garlic to the marinade for even more boldness.

Storing & Reheating

Meal prepping? You’re in luck. This dish holds up beautifully.

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Microwave with a splash of broth to keep the rice moist, or reheat covered in the oven at 350°F.

This makes One Pan Lemon Pepper Yogurt Chicken and Rice a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

FAQs About One Pan Lemon Pepper Yogurt Chicken and Rice

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and may require more broth. Plan for 45–50 minutes of baking time.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It is naturally gluten-free—just be sure to use gluten-free chicken broth.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

Sour cream or plain yogurt can work in a pinch, but Greek yogurt is best for its thick, creamy texture and tang.

Can I cook this on the stovetop only?

Yes, but you’ll need to keep it covered and simmer gently for about 30–35 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

How can I add more vegetables?

Stir in quick-cooking veggies like spinach or peas before baking, or roast firmer veggies (like carrots or zucchini) separately and add before serving.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or a lemony tahini sauce, though the flavor will be different.

Conclusion: A New Staple for Your Dinner Table

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, flavor-packed dinner that the whole family will crave again and again, then One Pan Lemon Pepper Yogurt Chicken and Rice is your golden ticket. It’s the perfect marriage of zesty lemon, creamy yogurt, tender chicken, and aromatic rice—all cooked together in one single skillet.

Not only does this dish check all the boxes for taste, convenience, and nutrition, but it also lets you spend less time cooking and cleaning, and more time enjoying the things you love. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal prep warrior, or just someone who loves good food, this recipe is about to become your new favorite.

So go ahead—grab that skillet, marinate that chicken, and get ready to enjoy the magic of one-pan cooking like never before.

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