This yummy slow cooker lemon herb chicken and rice is super easy to make! With tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs, it’s a tasty one-pot meal that fills your home with a delightful aroma.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. You can use thighs for more flavor and moisture, just remember they might need a little longer to cook.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this dish, as it cooks evenly. If you’d prefer a healthier option, brown rice can be used, but adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
Broth: Chicken broth is essential for a tasty base. If you want to lower the sodium, opt for low-sodium broth. Vegetable broth is also a great alternative for a different flavor.
Lemon: Fresh lemons give the brightest flavor. Bottled lemon juice can substitute in a pinch, but fresh juice and zest bring an unmatched zing and aroma to the dish.
Herbs: The dried herbs are convenient and flavorful. For a fresh twist, use fresh herbs instead. Just double the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken and Rice Come Out Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken and rice together in a slow cooker is simple, but it’s all about timing and moisture. Here are some tips:
- Always rinse your rice to remove excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming sticky.
- Place the rice at the bottom; it needs the broth to cook properly.
- Ensure your chicken breasts are arranged in a way that they get evenly cooked. If they’re overlapped, you might end up with uneven cooking.
- Keep the lid closed during cooking! Opening the lid releases precious steam and heat, which can alter cooking times.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F to be safely enjoyed.
By following these steps, your chicken should be tender and the rice fluffy every time!
Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: fresh lemon slices for garnish
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and cook for 4-5 hours in a slow cooker on low heat. You can set it and forget it while you go about your day – perfect for busy schedules!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Start by lightly greasing the slow cooker insert with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This helps everything come out easier when it’s done cooking!
2. Mix the Flavorful Broth:
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well to blend all the delicious flavors together!
3. Set Up the Rice Base:
Take the rinsed rice and spread it evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker. This will create a lovely, flavorful base for your dish!
4. Add the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice in the slow cooker. Try to keep them in a single layer for more even cooking.
5. Pour Over the Broth Mixture:
Carefully pour the lemon herb broth mixture over the chicken and rice. Make sure all the rice is covered to help it cook properly!
6. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken. This adds moisture and flavor, making your chicken juicy and tender.
7. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through (165°F internally) and the rice is tender.
8. Fluff the Rice:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and set it aside. Using a fork, fluff the rice gently to separate the grains.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the juicy chicken over the fluffy rice and garnish with optional fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley for a bright finish. Enjoy your flavorful, tender lemon herb chicken and rice!
FAQs for Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. For brown rice, increase the broth to about 3 cups and check for doneness around 6-7 hours on low heat.
Can I Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
While it’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time, but make sure to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with This Meal?
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you can enhance the meal with a fresh garden salad, steamed vegetables, or a light garlic bread for a complete dinner experience!
