Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice

Every kitchen needs a few go-to recipes, and Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice is one of those dishes you will turn to again and again. This recipe is not just simple; it’s also full of flavor. The lemon and herbs infuse the chicken with a fresh taste while keeping it moist and tender. Plus, cooking it all in a slow cooker means your kitchen will smell amazing while you enjoy your day.

Slow cooker meals are ideal for busy lifestyles. You can prep everything in just a few minutes, set your slow cooker, and let it do the work for you. This dish comes together beautifully, making it perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even when you have guests.

Why Make This Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that is easy to prepare, delicious, and healthy, this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice checks all the boxes. Here’s why you should make this recipe:

• Easy Preparation: You can whip this up in a short amount of time. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it cook.
• Healthy Meal: Chicken breasts are lean meat, and when paired with rice and fresh herbs, you have a balanced meal that is full of nutrients.
• Tasty Flavors: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs results in a wonderful taste that you and your family will love.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch and store the leftovers. The flavors only get better the next day!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an everyday family meal or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.

How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice

To create this delicious meal, you only need a handful of ingredients and a bit of time. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken, lemon juice and zest, olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the mixture.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add the rice and water to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Cook until the rice is fluffy and ready.
6. Serve the chicken over the rice, garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice

Serving up this dish is as simple as it is delicious. Here are some tips for serving:

• On a Plate: Spoon a generous amount of fluffy rice onto each plate and place the chicken on top. Drizzle some sauce from the slow cooker over the chicken for added flavor.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
• With a Side: Consider serving with a side salad or steamed vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.
• Leftovers: Rethink leftovers by using them in a wrap or atop a salad for a different meal.

How to Store Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice

Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy this meal later. Here’s how to do it:

• Cool the leftovers: Allow the dish to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Use airtight containers: Transfer the chicken and rice to airtight containers. Make sure to separate them if possible to maintain the texture of the rice.
• Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bags with the date.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice

Here are some useful tips that can help you make the most out of this dish:

• Marinate for More Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. This enhances the overall flavor.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme and rosemary, they can add an even brighter flavor to your dish. Use them in place of dried herbs.
• Check for Doneness: Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked.
• Adjust the Rice: If you prefer more rice or less, feel free to adjust the amount as needed. Just remember to keep the water to rice ratio consistent.
• Easy Clean-Up: Line your slow cooker with a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup afterward.

Variation

Feel free to adapt the recipe based on your preferences. Here are a couple of variations you might like:

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some chopped carrots, bell peppers, or peas into the slow cooker for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the dish a bit of heat.
• Different Grains: Swap out the rice for quinoa or couscous for a fun twist on the dish.

FAQs

Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs. They will add more flavor and stay moist during cooking.

Can I make this in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can cook this dish on the stovetop in a regular pot. Cook the chicken and sauce first, then add the rice and water and let it simmer until everything is cooked.

How can I make the rice fluffier?
Make sure to stir the rice halfway through the cooking time, and avoid lifting the lid too often to keep the steam in.

What can I serve with this dish?
Many side dishes go well with this meal such as steamed vegetables, a simple salad, or garlic bread.

With these instructions and tips, you will create a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Enjoy your cooking adventure with Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice!

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken with Fluffy Rice

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

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Description

A flavorful and easy meal featuring tender chicken infused with lemon and herbs, served over fluffy rice.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, lemon juice and zest, olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour chicken broth over the mixture.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until chicken is cooked through.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add rice and water to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
5. Cook until rice is fluffy and ready.
6. Serve chicken over the rice, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Feel free to add vegetables for extra nutrients or swap rice for quinoa for a different twist.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: chicken, slow cooker, lemon, herbs, rice, easy recipe