Description
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a flavorful and comforting one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, infused with fresh lemon and fragrant herbs, cooks alongside rice for a delicious, easy dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (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)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until clear.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Zest and juice the lemon.
- Sear the Chicken (Optional):
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
- Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Assemble the Slow Cooker:
- Add onion and garlic to the slow cooker.
- Pour in rinsed rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest.
- Stir gently, then place chicken on top.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until chicken reaches 165°F and rice is tender.
- Add Finishing Touches:
- Stir in frozen peas (if using) and let warm for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use brown rice (increase broth to 3 ½ cups and cook for 6–7 hours on low).
- Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for spice.
- Omit Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
- Add carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Swap chicken for turkey breast or boneless pork chops.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
- Category: main dish
- Method: slow cooker
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Slow Cooker Chicken, Lemon Herb Chicken, One-Pot Meal, Easy Chicken Dinner, Comfort Food