Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

When it comes to weeknight dinners, few dishes are as comforting and satisfying as a warm bowl of chicken and rice. Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice has become a staple in my kitchen, showcasing tender chicken breasts infused with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, all combining effortlessly with fluffy rice. Perfect for busy nights or cozy family gatherings, this dish is not just easy to prepare; it’s a delightful culinary escape that fills your home with appetizing aromas. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to focus on the finer things in life—like enjoying dinner with loved ones!

Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table

What truly sets Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice apart is its harmonious blend of flavors and the simplicity of its preparation. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual family brunches, this dish requires minimal hands-on time, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please both adults and kids alike, ensuring your whole family will be reaching for seconds.

“This dish has become a family favorite! The lemon adds a bright touch, and it’s so easy to throw together. We literally make it every other week!” – A Happy Cook

Preparing Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Ready to dive into the cooking? Let me walk you through the process. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its mouthwatering flavors but also in its straightforward steps. You’ll layer vibrant seasonings and wholesome ingredients in the slow cooker, allowing them to meld together beautifully over several hours.

Gather Your Ingredients

For this deliciously comforting dish, here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup of rice (you can use white or brown)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Feel free to swap brown rice for a healthier option, or try out different herbs like oregano or basil for a unique twist!

Cooking Steps

1. In your slow cooker, drizzle the olive oil and add the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
2. Next, place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and coat them thoroughly with the flavorful mixture.
3. Add the rice and pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently to combine without disturbing the chicken too much.
4. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the rice is tender.
5. Once cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork and sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color before serving.

What to Serve It With

When it comes to serving your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, think about adding a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal. A crisp salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette also complements the dish beautifully. For a touch of indulgence, consider a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices!

Best Way to Store Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

To keep your leftovers fresh, store the chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container and used within 2-3 months. When reheating, make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.

Pro Chef Tips

To elevate your dish even more, consider searing the chicken breasts before adding them to the slow cooker. This will lock in juices and add an extra layer of flavor. Additionally, if you have the time, let the dish sit before serving. The flavors meld beautifully if allowed to rest for about 10 minutes!

Creative Twists

In the mood for something different? Try adding a cup of mixed vegetables like peas or carrots to the slow cooker. You could also swap the herbs for something a bit more exotic, such as adding a touch of curry powder for a delightful twist on the original flavors.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The hands-on prep time is about 15 minutes, while the slow cooker does the rest of the work—cooking for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.

Can I use boneless thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs would work wonderfully in this recipe, adding extra juiciness to the dish.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and rice. Just double-check your broth labels for any hidden gluten!

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

To reheat, place it in the microwave until warmed throughout, or use a stovetop pan on low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.

Let the Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice be your new go-to meal for busy days—it’s not just dinner; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that your family will adore!

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

---

• Total Time: 375 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts infused with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, combined effortlessly with fluffy rice, perfect for busy nights and family gatherings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup rice (white or brown)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

---

Instructions

1. In your slow cooker, drizzle the olive oil and add the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and coat them with the mixture.
3. Add the rice and pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked and rice is tender.
5. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Notes

Consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad. For a twist, substitute different herbs or add mixed vegetables.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 360 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: chicken, slow cooker, lemon, herbs, rice, easy dinner, family meal