This slow cooker lemon herb chicken and rice is a bright and tasty dish! The chicken becomes tender and juicy, and the rice soaks up all the delicious flavors while cooking.
It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! I love how easy it is—just toss everything in, set it, and let the magic happen. Serve with veggies for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe, as they stay moist during cooking. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for even more flavor. They work well and won’t dry out easily.
Rice: Long grain white rice is the star here, absorbing all the flavors. If you have brown rice, you can use that too, but remember to adjust the cooking time as it takes longer to cook. Quinoa is another great alternative for a healthier option!
Chicken Broth: For a richer taste, use low-sodium chicken broth. If you’re vegetarian or want to reduce salt intake, vegetable broth is an excellent substitute, keeping the dish flavorful.
Herbs: Dried thyme and parsley bring wonderful flavor. Feel free to be creative! If you have fresh herbs, toss in a handful towards the end of cooking for a fresh punch.
Lemon: Fresh lemon zest and juice add brightness. If you don’t have a lemon, lime works nicely too, providing a different but delicious tang!
How Do I Get the Rice Perfectly Cooked in the Slow Cooker?
Cooking rice in a slow cooker can be tricky, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it. Follow these tips for rice that’s tender and fluffy:
- Make sure to stir the rice mixture thoroughly before adding the chicken. This ensures the rice cooks evenly.
- Don’t peek too often during cooking! Each time you lift the lid, heat escapes, which can extend cooking time.
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork after removing the chicken. This prevents it from becoming mushy and keeps the grains separate.
Taking care of your rice will have your dish turning out delicious every time!
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice, uncooked
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp dried basil (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 4 to 5 hours of cooking time in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for a busy day, as you can set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Start by lightly greasing the slow cooker insert with a bit of olive oil or using non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Rice Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the uncooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, dried thyme, dried parsley, dried basil (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Add to the Slow Cooker:
Pour the rice mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker. Make sure to spread it out evenly for even cooking.
4. Season the Chicken:
Next, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken on top of the rice mixture in the slow cooker.
5. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Your chicken is ready when it is cooked through and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff the Rice:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently, which prevents it from getting mushy.
7. Serve:
You can either slice the chicken and mix it gently into the rice, or serve the chicken on top. Either way, it’s going to be delicious!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a bit of color and flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad!
Enjoy your delightful and easy slow cooker meal!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to increase the cooking time by an hour or so, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
How Can I Substitute the Rice?
If you don’t have long grain white rice, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to about 6-7 hours on low. Quinoa is also a great alternative; just reduce the liquid to 2 1/2 cups for best results.
What Should I Do If the Rice Is Too Wet?
If the rice appears too wet after cooking, you can simply remove the lid and let it sit for an additional 10-15 minutes on the warm setting. This helps to absorb excess moisture. Fluff the rice again before serving!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice mixture and place it in the slow cooker insert the night before. Simply cover it and refrigerate. In the morning, add the seasoned chicken and cook as directed!
