This Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a super simple dish that’s packed with flavor! Tender chicken is cooked with fragrant herbs and zesty lemon, all resting on a bed of fluffy rice.
I love how this meal almost makes itself! Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and a few hours later dinner is served. Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty! 🍋🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. They stay moist in the slow cooker. If you’re looking for an alternative, you can also use thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works well, but you could try jasmine or basmati rice for a slightly different aroma. If you’re looking for a healthier option, brown rice is a great substitution, though cooking time may need to be adjusted.
Chicken Broth: I like using low-sodium chicken broth so I can control the saltiness. You can use vegetable broth if you want a vegetarian version, or even water in a pinch, though the flavor will be milder.
Herbs: Dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano add wonderful flavor, but feel free to use any dried herbs you love. Italian seasoning is a great all-in-one substitute. Fresh herbs can also add a vibrant touch if you have them on hand!
How Can I Get the Rice and Chicken to Cook Just Right?
The key here is layering and timing. Start by rinsing the rice thoroughly; this removes extra starch and keeps it from getting gummy. Place it in the slow cooker with the chopped onion as the base layer. The liquid you pour in should fully cover the rice; this ensures it cooks evenly.
- Mix the broth and seasonings in a bowl; pour over the rice and onions carefully.
- Place the chicken on top, which helps the moisture from the chicken keep the rice fluffy.
- Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours. Check for doneness; the chicken should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving keeps it juicy. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to avoid breaking it up too much. Enjoy the perfect combo of flavors! 🌿
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Time Needed:
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks in the slow cooker for 4-5 hours on low. It’s a perfect meal for busy days when you want something tasty without spending too much time at the stove!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lemon Herb Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, olive oil, and dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, and oregano). Add salt and pepper to your taste, and mix everything well!
2. Layer the Ingredients:
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain it well. In your slow cooker, spread the rinsed rice and the chopped onion in an even layer at the bottom. This helps give the rice a delicious foundation to soak up all the flavors.
3. Assemble the Dish:
Carefully pour the lemon herb broth mixture over the rice and onions. Next, place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of everything. Make sure they are nicely nestled into the mix!
4. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for about 4-5 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender while the rice becomes fluffy and absorbs all those lovely flavors.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Serve the tender lemon herb chicken over the rice, drizzling some of the cooking juices on top. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and lemon wedges for a pop of flavor!
And there you have it—a wonderfully flavored meal that’s both easy to make and delightful to eat. Perfect for any night of the week! Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. To thaw quickly, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes to speed up the process.
How Can I Adjust the Cooking Time if I’m Using Brown Rice?
If you’re substituting brown rice, you’ll need to increase the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook than white rice. Set your slow cooker to LOW for about 5-6 hours, checking for tenderness after 5 hours to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can substitute it with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Water with added seasonings (like a pinch of salt and herbs) can work in a pinch, though it will be less flavorful.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to ensure the rice stays moist. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally for even warming.
