This Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a winner for busy days! The chicken turns out juicy and full of flavor, thanks to cozy herbs and zesty lemon.
Cooking everything in one pot makes cleanup a breeze! I love setting it up in the morning and coming home to a delicious meal—that’s my kind of magic! ✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect here, but you can also use thighs for a juicier result. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try skinless chicken tenders.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works well since it cooks up fluffy. If you prefer, you can swap in brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and broth since it takes longer to cook.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness. You can also substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option or if you’re short on chicken broth.
Herbs: Dried thyme and oregano are classic for this recipe, but feel free to use fresh herbs if you have them! Just double the amount, as fresh herbs are less concentrated.
Lemon: The fresh zest and juice of lemon add brightness. If you don’t have a fresh lemon, bottled lemon juice can work as a substitute—just reduce the amount, as it’s stronger.
What’s the Best Way to Layer Ingredients in a Slow Cooker?
Layering ingredients correctly is key for even cooking and flavor distribution. Start by combining the rice and broth in the base of the slow cooker to let the rice absorb the flavors. Then, place the chicken on top to let it cook in the steam and juices.
- Mix the rice and broth in the slow cooker first.
- Add minced garlic, lemon zest, juice, and herbs to maximize flavor.
- Finally, lay the chicken on top and drizzle with olive oil.
This method not only ensures everything cooks evenly, but also keeps the chicken moist and the rice perfectly tender. Happy cooking!
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 4 to 6 hours of cooking time in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for those busy days when you want to come home to a delicious meal without much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice Mixture:
Start by combining the rice, chicken broth, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried thyme, oregano, rosemary, salt, and black pepper in your slow cooker. Stir everything together so that the rice is well-coated and the flavors are mixed in.
2. Add the Chicken:
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts right on top of that delicious rice mixture. This way, the chicken will soak up all those yummy flavors while it cooks.
3. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Now it’s time to drizzle the olive oil over the chicken. If you’re using the chopped onion, sprinkle it on top as well. This adds extra flavor that enhances the dish!
4. Cook it Up:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through, and the rice is nice and tender, soaking up all that flavorful broth and lemony goodness.
5. Fluff and Garnish:
Once cooking is complete, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Then, you can garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish it out while it’s warm and enjoy this bright and comforting meal with family and friends. It’s simple and oh-so-satisfying!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. You can thaw chicken overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
This recipe is already gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Just check the label to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! You can add vegetables like chopped carrots, bell peppers, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition. Just add them to the slow cooker along with the rice and broth for a complete meal!
