This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a simple, tasty meal that makes busy days a breeze! With juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and zesty lemon, it’s a delightful dinner.
The best part? You just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax. I love serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor! 🍋✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they cook up tender. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer flavor, or even turkey breast if you’re looking for a leaner option.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works well for a fluffy texture. If you want brown rice for added fiber, just remember to adjust the cooking time and broth amount because brown rice takes longer to cook.
Lemon: Fresh lemon really brightens up the dish. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with bottled lemon juice, but the flavor might be less vibrant. Lemon zest is crucial for that extra punch!
Herbs: Dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano bring wonderful flavors. If you have fresh herbs, feel free to chop and use them instead, just double the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated.
Onion and Garlic: They add depth to the dish. For a sweeter taste, try using shallots instead of onion. If you’re short on garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch—1/8 teaspoon per clove.
How Do I Get Tender Chicken and Fluffy Rice?
The key to achieving juicy chicken and perfectly cooked rice is all about timing and moisture control. Here’s how to ensure success:
- Start with chicken that is uniform in size to cook evenly.
- Cooking on low for 4 to 5 hours keeps the chicken tender. If your slow cooker tends to run hot, check it around the 4-hour mark.
- Fluff the rice before serving to incorporate any broth that may have settled at the bottom, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Don’t open the lid during cooking, as this releases heat and could affect the cooking time!
These tips help you make a perfect Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice every time!
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus 4 to 5 hours of cooking time in the slow cooker. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lemon Herb Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
2. Coat the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour half of the lemon herb mixture over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.
3. Add the Onions:
Evenly distribute the chopped onion over the coated chicken in the slow cooker. This will add great flavor as it cooks!
4. Layer the Rice:
Spread the rinsed rice evenly over the onions and chicken. This will absorb all the wonderful flavors during cooking.
5. Add the Chicken Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the rice in the slow cooker. Drizzle the remaining lemon herb mixture on top for extra flavor.
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Check at the 4-hour mark to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
7. Fluff and Garnish:
Once ready, fluff the rice with a fork to incorporate everything. Then, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
FAQ – Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. It’s best to transfer them to the refrigerator a day before or submerge in cold water for a quicker thaw. Cooking from frozen may require additional cooking time.
Can I Substitute Brown Rice for White Rice?
Absolutely! If using brown rice, increase the chicken broth to about 2 cups and extend the cooking time to 6 to 7 hours on low. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so ensure it’s fully tender before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Additionally, serving it with a side of crusty bread can be a nice touch to soak up any extra sauce!
