Easy One-Pan Lemon Herb Salmon and Rice Recipe

This lemon herb salmon and rice is a bright, fresh, and satisfying dish that’s made in just one pan. The salmon is pan-seared to perfection and then nestled into fluffy, seasoned rice infused with lemon, garlic, and herbs. It’s a healthy, quick, and protein-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal – Minimal cleanup
• Fresh & flavorful – Lemon and herbs add brightness
• Healthy & filling – Loaded with omega-3s and fiber
• Customizable – Swap salmon for chicken or shrimp

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What You’ll Need

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Juice & zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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How to Make Lemon Herb Salmon and Rice

Step 1: Season & Sear the Salmon

Pat salmon dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic & Rice

In the same pan, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the rice, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Let the rice toast for 1-2 minutes for added depth of flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until rice is tender.

Step 4: Add the Salmon Back In

Nestle the salmon fillets back into the rice and cover the pan. Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes on low heat to warm the salmon through and let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with extra lemon wedges.

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Tips for the Best Lemon Herb Salmon and Rice

• Use fresh lemon – It makes a huge difference in flavor.
• Sear the salmon first – It locks in moisture and gives it a crisp crust.
• Let the rice steam – After cooking, let it sit covered for a few minutes before fluffing.

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Variations & Add-Ons

• Make it Spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale before serving.
• Swap the Protein: Use shrimp or chicken instead of salmon.

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Storage & Meal Prep

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as fish can dry out when reheated.

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