This lemon herb chicken and rice dish is super easy to make in a slow cooker! Just toss in chicken, rice, and zesty lemon with some fragrant herbs for a tasty meal.
The best part? The chicken comes out so tender, you could practically use a spoon! I love serving it with a side of veggies for a complete dinner. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the perfect choice because they stay tender and cook evenly. If you’re looking for a different cut, thighs are great too! Just be sure to adjust cooking time slightly as they can take a bit longer.
Rice: Long grain white rice works well here. If you prefer brown rice, you can use it, but you’ll need to increase the liquid and cooking time. Quinoa could also be a fun substitute for a nutty flavor and added protein.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth always adds extra flavor! If you don’t have any, store-bought works just fine. Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter option, especially if you want to keep this dish vegetarian.
Lemon: Fresh lemons offer the best flavor. If you’re out of fresh lemons, a splash of store-bought lemon juice can substitute, but be careful—it’s more concentrated, so start with less and add to taste.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To guarantee juicy chicken, it’s key to not overcook it. Follow these simple tips:
- Set your slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours. The longer cook time helps to keep the chicken moist.
- Check the chicken early if cooking on high (around 2-3 hours). It’s done when internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C).
- If you’re using frozen chicken, you might need a little extra time, but overall, fresh is always best!
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time, followed by 4-5 hours of slow cooking on low (or 2-3 hours on high). So grab your ingredients, toss them into the slow cooker, and let your trusty appliance do all the work while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by rinsing your long grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch so your rice turns out fluffy. In your slow cooker, combine the rinsed rice and the chicken broth, mixing it gently to evenly distribute the rice.
2. Make the Lemon Herb Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, parsley, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed and fragrant. This mixture will pack your dish with vibrant flavors!
3. Add Chicken and Flavor:
Place the boneless chicken breasts neatly on top of the rice in the slow cooker. Then, take your lemon herb mixture and pour it evenly over the chicken. Make sure each piece is coated for maximum flavor!
4. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for about 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the rice is tender and fluffy.
5. Fluff and Serve:
Once it’s cooked, gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. If you want to add a pop of color, sprinkle fresh parsley on top as a garnish. This will add a nice touch and make your dish look even more inviting!
6. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve your warm lemon herb chicken and rice to family or friends, and enjoy a deliciously easy meal that’s bursting with flavor. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be aware that cooking time may increase slightly. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving. It’s best to thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for the Rice?
If you prefer, you can substitute long grain white rice with brown rice or quinoa. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount, especially if using brown rice, as it typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in some veggies like peas, carrots, or bell peppers into the slow cooker with the rice and chicken. Just chop them into small pieces and add them at the same time as the chicken for a complete meal.
