Lemon-Flavor Rice with Thyme

This bright and fragrant rice dish is the perfect way to add a zesty twist to your meal. With fresh lemon and aromatic thyme, it’s a simple yet flavorful side that pairs well with a variety of dishes.

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TIME40 min

SERVINGS4

RATINGNew

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter 1 cup uncooked white rice 1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Once it’s melted, add the rice and cook it, stirring often, until it turns a nice golden brown—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Next, pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and sprinkle in the thyme. Give everything a good stir, then cover the pan and turn the heat down to low. Let it simmer gently until the liquid is fully absorbed, which should take around 20 minutes. When it’s done, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains before serving.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use fresh thyme for the best flavor, but dried thyme works well in a pinch.
- Rinse the rice before cooking to keep it fluffy and prevent stickiness.
- Add lemon zest along with juice to enhance the citrus aroma.

Why you’ll love it

This dish is bright and refreshing, combining the zesty taste of lemon with the earthy aroma of thyme. It’s a simple way to add flavor to plain rice without using heavy sauces. Perfect for a light side or a base for many meals.

Serving ideas

Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It also pairs nicely with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. A dollop of Greek yogurt can add a creamy contrast.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to keep the rice moist. This rice can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw before reheating.