Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

A Comforting and Flavorful One-Pot Meal

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a perfect dish for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. With tender, juicy chicken infused with fresh lemon and fragrant herbs, and rice that soaks up all the delicious flavors, this meal is both comforting and refreshing. The slow cooker does most of the work, making it an effortless way to prepare a wholesome dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a vibrant and savory dish.
• One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup makes this recipe ideal for busy families.
• Perfectly Cooked Rice: The rice absorbs all the flavors of the chicken and broth, making every bite delicious.
• Versatile: Adjust the seasonings and ingredients to fit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added color and nutrition)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
• Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
• Zest and juice the lemon.

2. Sear the Chicken (Optional)

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
• Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. (This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped.)

3. Assemble the Slow Cooker

• Add the chopped onion and garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker.
• Pour in the rinsed rice, then add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest.
• Stir everything gently, then place the seared (or raw) chicken on top.

4. Cook

• Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature) and the rice is tender.

5. Add Finishing Touches

• Stir in frozen peas (if using) and let them warm through for 5 minutes.
• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Brown Rice Option: Use brown rice instead of white rice, but increase the broth to 3 ½ cups and cook on low for 6–7 hours.
• Spicy Version: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for heat.
• Dairy-Free: Omit Parmesan cheese for a completely dairy-free dish.
• Vegetable Boost: Add carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Different Proteins: Swap chicken for turkey breast or boneless pork chops.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
• Total Time: 4–5 hours 10 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave with a splash of broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

To prevent mushy rice, rinse it well before adding it to the slow cooker. Also, avoid stirring too often during cooking.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes! Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks add more flavor. Just remove the bones before serving.

What if my rice is still hard?

If the rice is undercooked, add an extra ¼ cup of broth and cook for another 20–30 minutes on low.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function to sear the chicken, then cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.

What herbs work best with this dish?

Oregano, thyme, rosemary, and parsley complement the lemon flavor beautifully.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but make sure your slow cooker is large enough (6 quarts or more). Cooking time may need slight adjustments.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! As long as your broth is gluten-free, this recipe is safe for a gluten-free diet.

Can I add more lemon flavor?

For extra lemony flavor, add another teaspoon of lemon zest or a few lemon slices on top during cooking.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of garlic bread pairs well with this meal.

Can I cook the rice separately?

Yes! Cook the chicken in the slow cooker and prepare the rice on the stovetop, then combine before serving.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a simple, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy days. With its bright citrusy notes and savory herbs, it’s a dish that the whole family will love. Plus, with minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s a go-to recipe for effortless cooking. Try this dish today and enjoy a comforting, one-pot meal packed with flavor!

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