Introduction
There’s something incredibly satisfying about coming home to the inviting aroma of a warm, hearty meal waiting for you. Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is exactly that kind of dish—perfectly cooked chicken infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, all mingling with fluffy rice. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner for the family or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Plus, it requires minimal hands-on time, so you can focus on what really matters—enjoying delicious food and making memories.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe embodies comfort and convenience. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can achieve a flavorful and nutritious meal that looks and tastes gourmet. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it ideal for busy families or anyone looking to whip up a satisfying dish without draining their wallets. The balance of lemony brightness with savory herbs also appeals to diverse palates, making it remarkably kid-approved.
“This dish has become my go-to for family dinners! It’s so easy to make, and everyone loves it. The chicken is melt-in-your-mouth tender!”
Preparing Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
To make this delightful meal, you’ll want to gather your ingredients and get ready for a simple step-by-step process. Start by combining everything in your slow cooker and letting it do the work for you. In no time, you’ll be serving up a vibrant, delicious dish.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this recipe to life:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon slices for serving
Feel free to swap the herbs or add your favorite spices. For instance, rosemary or basil could provide a lovely variation.
Directions to follow
- Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker.
- Add the rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir to mix in all those flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice can be just as enjoyable as making it. For a beautiful presentation, pile the fluffy rice on a large platter, top it with the shredded chicken, and sprinkle fresh parsley all around. Pair it with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal. And don’t forget those lemon slices—they add a fresh touch to each plate!
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely, but always a possibility), they can easily be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or on a stovetop until warm.
You can also freeze the leftovers! Pack them in freezer-safe containers, where they can last up to three months. Just allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
To elevate the dish further, consider browning the chicken breasts in olive oil in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker. This step adds a delightful depth of flavor. Also, for extra creaminess, you can stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of cream just before serving.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You could turn this comforting dish into a Mediterranean delight by adding some chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives. Swap out the rice for quinoa or farro for a nutty flavor and added texture. If you’re looking for a spicier kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What chicken parts can I use instead of breasts?
You can absolutely use thighs for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook.
2. Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time. You may want to add an extra hour or more to ensure it’s fully cooked.
3. What can I substitute for chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or even water, but keep in mind that this may slightly alter the dish’s flavor profile.
4. How do I know when the chicken is properly cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer for the most accurate reading.
5. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers can be added during the last hour of cooking to maintain their texture.
6. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The mild flavors of lemon and herbs appeal to kids, and since it’s all in one pot, it can make for easy serving.
7. How do I reheat it?
Heat individual portions in the microwave or warm everything on the stovetop over low heat. Just add a splash of water to keep it from drying out.
8. How can I make this a gluten-free meal?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free. Enjoy without worry!
Print
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A satisfying and aromatic slow cooker meal featuring tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon slices for serving
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker.
- Add the rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker and stir everything to mix in the flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
Notes
For additional flavor, consider browning the chicken before cooking. You can also stir in sour cream or cream for creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
