Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

A Comforting and Flavorful One-Pot Meal

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings together tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and zesty lemon flavors in one comforting meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a hands-off approach to a homemade meal. With minimal prep work, your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, leaving you with a flavorful and nutritious dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation – Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Balanced flavors – The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a vibrant yet comforting taste.
• Nutritious and satisfying – Lean protein, whole grains, and fresh ingredients make this a wholesome meal.
• Great for meal prep – Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup carrots, diced (optional)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the slow cooker with non-stick spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Add the uncooked rice and carrots (if using) to the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, then stir to distribute evenly.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix the lemon zest, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, paprika, and onion powder. Rub this seasoning mixture onto the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 4: Cook the Dish

Place the seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture. Drizzle melted butter over the chicken for extra richness. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the rice is tender.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas (if using) and let them warm through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Fluff the rice with a fork, then serve the chicken and rice garnished with fresh parsley for added brightness.

Variations and Substitutions

• Brown rice option – Swap white rice for brown rice, but increase the liquid by 1/2 cup and extend the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
• Different protein – Try this recipe with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or turkey breast.
• Extra veggies – Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for additional nutrients and flavor.
• Dairy-free alternative – Omit the butter or use olive oil instead.

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: Up to 5 hours

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time by 30-60 minutes to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Will the rice become mushy in the slow cooker?

Not if you follow the correct liquid ratio and cooking time. Avoid overcooking.

Can I use instant rice?

It’s not recommended, as it will cook too quickly and become overly soft.

What can I serve with this dish?

This meal pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

How do I make this dish more lemony?

Increase the lemon juice to 3 tablespoons and add extra zest for a stronger citrus flavor.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! Use triple the amount of fresh herbs in place of dried for the best flavor.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes, use a large pot or Dutch oven, and simmer covered for about 30-40 minutes over low heat.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Absolutely! Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella before serving for extra creaminess.

What’s the best way to prevent the rice from sticking to the slow cooker?

Greasing the slow cooker and stirring occasionally (if possible) will help prevent sticking.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is an easy, flavorful, and wholesome meal perfect for any day of the week. With minimal effort, you get a comforting dish that’s bursting with bright lemon, fragrant herbs, and tender chicken. Whether you’re meal-prepping or feeding a family, this one-pot meal is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Print