Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

There's something wonderfully comforting about the scent of lemon and herbs wafting through the kitchen, beckoning you home after a long day. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice when I was seeking a culinary escape from my usual fast-food routine. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe transforms the humble chicken breast into a juicy, flavorful masterpiece that practically cooks itself.

As the chicken simmers slowly in a rich and zesty lemon broth, the rice absorbs all those mouthwatering juices, creating a hearty, satisfying dish that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner or just looking to treat yourself and your family, this is the kind of meal that not only warms the heart but also makes weekdays feel a little more special. Join me in discovering the magic of this easy, delicious, and utterly comforting dish!

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the star of this dish, choose fresh for the best flavor.
• Olive oil – adds a touch of richness and helps with browning, but feel free to skip it for a lighter option.

For the Rice Mixture
• Long-grain white rice – fluffy and absorbs the lemon and herb flavors beautifully.
• Chicken broth – enhances the dish with savory depth; you can use vegetable broth as a substitute too.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice – the key to that zesty brightness in the Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice.

For the Seasoning
• Dried thyme – this herb brings an aromatic touch; fresh thyme works well too if you have it on hand.
• Dried oregano – adds an earthy flavor; you can mix it up with Italian seasoning if preferred.
• Garlic powder – for a savory kick, but fresh garlic can add a sharper taste if you prefer.
• Onion powder – complements the garlic; you could use finely chopped onion instead for added texture.
• Salt and pepper – essential for enhancing all the flavors; adjust to your taste.

For Garnishing
• Lemon, sliced – brightens the dish and adds a lovely visual appeal.
• Fresh parsley, chopped – offers a pop of color and freshness that balances the rich flavors.

How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

1. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This creates a wonderful base flavor that enhances the overall dish.

2. Optional: Brown the chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until nicely golden. This step is not necessary but adds a depth of flavor before slow cooking. Place the chicken in the slow cooker when done.

3. Mix together the long-grain white rice, chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried thyme, and oregano in a bowl. This herby liquid will infuse the rice with delicious flavors as it cooks.

4. Pour the rice mixture over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring that the rice is evenly distributed. This allows the rice to soak up all the juicy goodness from the chicken.

5. Top with slices of lemon for an extra burst of citrus flavor and a striking presentation. These will caramelize slightly and enhance the taste!

6. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. This gentle cooking will make the chicken tender and flavorful.

7. Check the chicken’s internal temperature about 30 minutes before serving; it should reach 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.

8. Remove the chicken and fluff the rice with a fork to incorporate all the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed; this step is crucial for balanced flavors!

9. Serve the chicken whole or shredded over a bed of fluffy rice, garnished with fresh parsley for a beautiful finish.

Optional: Add a sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest for an extra zing!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and the dish fresh for your next meal.

Freezer: You can freeze the Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice for up to 3 months. Just make sure to portion it into freezer-safe containers to maintain quality.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore moisture.

Serving: Enjoy it as a delightful quick meal by shredding the chicken over rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon for that zesty touch!

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?

There's nothing quite like a balanced meal that accompanies the citrusy goodness of slow-cooked chicken and fluffy rice.

• Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable brings a fresh crunch that beautifully contrasts with the tender chicken and rice.

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the flavorful broth, its crispy edges create a satisfying texture to pair with the soft chicken.

• Citrus Salad: A bright mix of oranges, lemons, and mixed greens enhances the zesty notes of the chicken, making each bite feel refreshing.

• Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavor of roasted asparagus complements the herbal lemon chicken, elevating your meal with a touch of elegance.

• Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy and slightly sweet, this mash brings a comforting, hearty texture that balances the acidity of the lemon.

• Lemonade: A chilled glass of homemade lemonade adds a refreshing and tangy twist, harmonizing with your main dish’s lemon flavor.

• Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse serves as an indulgent conclusion, contrasting the bright lemon notes with luscious chocolate creaminess.

• Herbed Quinoa: This nutty, protein-packed grain can replace rice for a wholesome twist, soaked in those delicious lemony flavors as well.

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: With its sweet, smoky flavor, grilled corn pairs wonderfully alongside juicy chicken, providing a perfect summer vibe.

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore these enticing twists and swaps to make this dish uniquely yours!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute olive oil with coconut oil for a tropical hint that adds a subtle sweetness to the dish.
• Whole Grain: Use brown rice instead of white for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, adjusting liquid amounts slightly for perfect cooking.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat that dances with the lemon's zest, making each bite exciting!
• Herb Mix: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for a fragrant twist that brightens every bite and adds a garden-fresh flavor.
• Vegetable Boost: Toss in chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color, offering a delightful crunch alongside the tender chicken.
• Lemon Garlic: Incorporate a few cloves of minced fresh garlic into the rice mixture, enhancing the aromatic qualities and deepening the flavor profile.
• Citrus Blend: Mix in orange juice along with the lemon for a sweet, tangy depth, creating a refreshing citrus melody that captures the palate.
• Quinoa Alternative: Swap the rice for quinoa for a protein-packed version that brings nutty flavors and a delightful texture to this beloved dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice are perfect for busy weeknights! You can season the chicken and prepare the rice mixture up to 24 hours in advance, helping you save precious time on the day you plan to cook. Simply keep the seasoned chicken stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and mix the rice, broth, lemon juice, and herbs in another container. When you're ready to enjoy your meal, just place the chicken and rice mixture in the slow cooker and cook for the recommended time. This way, you'll have a delicious, home-cooked meal waiting for you with minimal effort, just as flavorful as if it were made fresh!

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for ones that are plump, with a pale pink color and minimal fat. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel slimy. Freshness is key to ensuring a juicy result, so I recommend buying from a trusted source or checking the "sell by" date.

What is the best way to store leftovers of Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before sealing, make sure the chicken and rice are cooled to room temperature to lock in freshness. It’s a great way to enjoy this delicious meal again!

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let the dish cool down completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 3 months. Be sure to label each container with the date for easy tracking! When you're ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.

What should I do if the chicken is not fully cooked?
If the chicken isn't fully cooked (below 165°F), simply return it to the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high or until it reaches the desired temperature. If the rice seems too dry, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist and flavorful while it finishes cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
While this recipe is delicious, it does contain chicken and common allergens like garlic and onion powder. For anyone with specific allergies, you can substitute the seasonings with allergy-friendly alternatives, such as herb blends without garlic or onion. Always double-check labels to ensure safety for those with dietary restrictions.

Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal with Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, featuring juicy chicken and zesty rice.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 hours hrs

Total Time 7 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: DINNER PLATES

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

For the Chicken

• 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Rice

• 1 cup Long-grain white rice

For the Flavor

• 2 cups Chicken broth
• ¼ cup Freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Onion powder
• to taste Salt
• to taste Pepper

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons Olive oil Optional for browning

For Garnish

• 1 whole Lemon, sliced
• ¼ cup Fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

• slow cooker
• Skillet
• mixing bowl

Method

 

Preparation

1. Start by generously seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. If you’d like a deeper flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
3. In a bowl, combine the long-grain white rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Stir until well blended.
4. Pour the rice mixture over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring even distribution.
5. Top the mixture with the lemon slices.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
7. About 30 minutes before serving, check the internal temperature of the chicken, ensuring it reaches 165°F.
8. Once done, carefully remove the chicken and fluff the rice with a fork.
9. Serve the chicken whole or shredded atop the rice and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, ensure even seasoning and avoid overcrowding the slow cooker.

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