Description
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is an easy, flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and zesty lemon. Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep!
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker – Lightly grease the slow cooker with non-stick spray or oil.
- Layer the Ingredients – Add uncooked rice and carrots (if using) to the slow cooker. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to distribute evenly.
- Season the Chicken – In a small bowl, mix lemon zest, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, paprika, and onion powder. Coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning mix.
- Cook the Dish – Place seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture. Drizzle melted butter over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and rice is tender.
- Add Final Touches – About 15 minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas (if using) and allow them to heat through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve and Garnish – Fluff rice with a fork, serve the chicken and rice, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Brown Rice Option: Increase liquid by 1/2 cup and extend cooking time by 1-2 hours.
- Alternative Proteins: Substitute with turkey breast or boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Microwave with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: slow cooker chicken, lemon herb chicken, one-pot meal, crockpot chicken and rice, easy chicken recipes