This lemon herb chicken and rice dish is super easy and perfect for busy days! Just toss chicken, rice, and tasty herbs in your slow cooker, and let it do all the work.
The best part? The chicken becomes so tender and full of flavor, you might find yourself hugging the pot! I love serving it with a big salad for a fresh touch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they remain moist during cooking. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, chicken thighs work well too!
Rice: I used long grain white rice, but you can substitute it with jasmine or basmati rice for a different flavor. Just remember, the cooking time might vary slightly.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is my go-to choice to keep the dish light. If you need a lighter option, vegetable broth works nicely too, or even water in a pinch—though it may lack some flavor.
Fresh Herbs: I really love using dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary. If you have fresh ones on hand, feel free to use them! A tablespoon of fresh herbs can add a burst of flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Rice is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking rice in the slow cooker can be tricky, but it’s straightforward once you understand the process! The key is to rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which helps it cook evenly and prevents it from becoming gummy.
- After rinsing, layer the rice evenly over the broth mixture in the slow cooker.
- Keep chicken breasts on top to avoid them becoming submerged; this helps them cook without drying out.
- Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. Check the rice for tenderness before serving.
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, rinsed
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 3 to 4 hours to cook in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for a busy day, and while it’s cooking, your home will smell amazing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped onion, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. This herby mix will give your chicken and rice wonderful flavor!
2. Set Up the Slow Cooker:
Pour the mixture from the bowl into your slow cooker. This will be the base of your meal. It’s like a cozy bath for the chicken and rice!
3. Prepare the Rice:
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear; this helps remove extra starch and prevents the rice from getting sticky. Spread the rinsed rice evenly over the mixture in the slow cooker.
4. Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle the olive oil over the rice, which helps add some richness and flavor.
5. Add the Chicken:
Gently place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Make sure the chicken isn’t fully submerged so it cooks nicely and stays moist.
6. Cook It Low and Slow:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the rice is tender. Your house will smell delightful!
7. Fluff and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, take out the chicken breasts and fluff the rice with a fork. The rice should be light and fluffy—just perfect!
8. Finish Up:
Slice or shred the chicken and gently mix it back in with the rice. It’s all about blending those yummy flavors together!
9. Garnish:
Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving. It adds a lovely touch and a pop of color!
10. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your flavorful, tender lemon herb chicken and rice! It’s a comforting dish that everyone will love.
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time. Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or until fully cooked. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Rice?
If you need a rice substitute, quinoa or couscous can work well. However, cooking times may vary. For quinoa, use the same liquid-to-rice ratio, while for couscous, add it in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking as it cooks quickly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers. Just chop them and add them to the slow cooker with the rice for the last hour of cooking. They will cook nicely without getting mushy!
