Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that practically cooks itself, you’ve come to the right place! This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe is one of those meals that fills your home with warmth and delicious aromas. With tender, juicy chicken flavored with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, it’s a favorite in my kitchen. I love how easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone will ask for seconds.

This dish not only brings joy to your taste buds but also offers wholesome goodness in every bite. It’s a wonderful way to bring everyone together at the dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll fall in love with this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the magic while you relax.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves a warm bowl of chicken and rice, making it ideal for picky eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance so you can enjoy more time with loved ones.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of lemon and herbs creates a lively taste that brightens any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple, wholesome ingredients to create your Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. Each one plays a role in building layers of flavor that make this dish so special.

• 2 pounds chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless turkey breasts or even chickpeas for a plant-based option.
• Change up the grains: Substitute quinoa or brown rice for a different texture and added nutrition.
• Add extra veggies: Throw in some diced carrots or bell peppers for an extra pop of color and nutrients.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce if you like your meals with a little kick.

How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. This step is essential as sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to our dish.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Garlic adds a wonderful aroma that enhances all the flavors as they meld together in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients

Transfer the cooked onion and garlic mixture to the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the chicken breasts on top, then sprinkle dried thyme, dried rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper evenly over them. Layering these ingredients helps build flavor from the start!

Step 4: Add Rice and Broth

Add uncooked rice around the chicken in the slow cooker. Pour chicken broth over everything, ensuring that rice is completely submerged in liquid. This will allow the rice to soak up all those tasty flavors as it cooks.

Step 5: Drizzle Lemon Juice

Drizzle fresh lemon juice over everything in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours until chicken is fully cooked and rice is tender. The acidity from lemon juice brightens up each bite!

Step 6: Stir In Peas

Once cooking is complete, remove chicken breasts from slow cooker and set aside. Stir frozen peas into rice mixture; allow them to warm through just before serving.

Step 7: Shred Chicken

Shred or slice chicken breasts and return them to slow cooker. Gently stir to combine chicken, rice, peas, and broth—creating a hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 8: Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over top just before serving for a beautiful finish!

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Cooking can sometimes feel daunting, but with these handy tips, your journey to a delicious meal will be smooth sailing!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping onions and mincing garlic the night before saves you time and stress on cooking day.
• Use Fresh Herbs When Possible: Fresh herbs like parsley not only enhance flavor but also bring vibrant colors to your dish, making it more appealing.
• Adjust Liquid as Needed: Depending on your slow cooker, you might need to tweak the amount of chicken broth slightly to ensure the rice cooks perfectly without being too soggy.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for 10 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and texture. They can make your dish even more colorful and nutritious!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Presentation can truly elevate a dish! Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting meal that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Lemon Wedges: A few wedges of fresh lemon on the side allow guests to add an extra burst of zesty flavor if they desire.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkling green onions adds a dash of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds a beautiful green contrast and a satisfying crunch to your meal.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with olive oil balances out the richness of the chicken and rice.
• Garlic Bread: This classic addition is great for soaking up any delicious broth left on your plate while adding a delightful crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings extra flavor and color to your table, making it not only tasty but also visually appealing.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to create an unforgettable dining experience centered around this scrumptious Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice! Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch ahead of time and enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed, or warm on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.
• Ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) before serving.

FAQs

If you’re wondering about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice! However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires longer cooking, so plan for an additional hour on low or about 30 minutes on high.

How do I make Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that your chicken broth is certified gluten-free. Additionally, double-check any other ingredients you use for hidden gluten.

What side dishes pair well with Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice?

Fresh salads, steamed vegetables, or a light cucumber salad complement this dish beautifully. They add freshness and crunch to balance out the savory flavors.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice as I do! It’s not just about a meal; it’s about creating warm memories around the dinner table. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or enjoying it fresh from the slow cooker, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite!