This Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that’s full of flavor! Juicy chicken is cooked with rice, zesty lemon, and fresh herbs creating a tasty, one-pot meal.
I love how simple it is to throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Dinner’s ready when you are—perfect for busy days or lazy weekends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. If you want to save time, chicken thighs are a great substitute and provide a bit more flavor. You can also use chicken tenders for a faster cooking time.
Rice: Long grain white rice is perfect for this dish. If you don’t have it, try using Jasmine rice for a nice aroma. For a healthier option, brown rice can be used, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid.
Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth adds depth to the flavor. You can swap it out for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake, or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Herbs: Dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley bring lovely flavor. Fresh herbs can be substituted, just use about three times the amount. If you don’t have these specific herbs, Italian seasoning can work in a pinch!
Lemon: Fresh lemon is key for that bright, zesty flavor. You can use lemon juice from a bottle, but fresh is always best. If you’re out of lemons, a splash of vinegar can provide some acidity.
How Do I Ensure My Rice Turns Out Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the rice right in the slow cooker can be tricky. The key is to make sure it’s well mixed with the chicken broth and flavorings. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix the uncooked rice with broth and seasonings before adding the chicken. This ensures even cooking.
- Layer the chicken on top without stirring. This keeps the chicken from becoming too dry.
- Do not lift the lid during cooking, as it lets steam escape and affects cooking time. Trust the process!
Fluff the rice gently with a fork after cooking. This prevents it from becoming mushy and lets all those yummy flavors combine nicely!
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ cups long grain white rice, uncooked
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or green beans for added veggies
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and get everything ready. Then, let the slow cooker do its magic for about 4 to 5 hours on LOW or 2 to 3 hours on HIGH. Just relax and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing Your Slow Cooker:
Start by lightly greasing the inside of your slow cooker with olive oil or spray it with non-stick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier!
2. Mixing the Rice and Broth:
In a medium bowl, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Layering in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the rice and broth mixture evenly into the bottom of the slow cooker. The rice should cover the bottom nicely.
4. Adding the Chicken:
Now, place the chicken breasts right on top of the rice. Season the chicken with a bit more salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker and set it on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Adding Veggies (Optional):
If you want to add some color and nutrients, about 30 minutes before it’s done, stir in a cup of frozen peas or green beans. They’ll heat through nicely and add a fresh touch to the dish!
7. Fluffing and Serving:
Once it’s done cooking, gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. You can serve the chicken whole on top or sliced alongside the rice.
8. Final Touches:
If you like, garnish your dish with fresh parsley or lemon slices to brighten it up. This adds a beautiful finish and extra flavor!
Enjoy your easy, flavorful slow cooker lemon herb chicken and rice! It’s hearty, comforting, and sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to increase the cooking time by about an hour if you’re using frozen chicken breasts. It’s important that the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice mixture and season the chicken the night before. Store the components separately in the fridge and assemble in the slow cooker in the morning for a fresh dish at dinner time!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and rice in a bowl and microwave until heated through, or warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out.
Can I Substitute the Rice with Another Type?
Yes! While long grain white rice is ideal, you can substitute it with Jasmine rice for a similar texture. If using brown rice, increase the cooking time and add an extra half cup of broth for perfect results.
